Wal-Mart Opens First Hispanic Community Store

Wal-Mart Opens First Hispanic Community Store
May 07, 2008

Bentonville, Ark.-based Wal-Mart Stores Inc. opened its first Hispanic community store today in Garland, Texas. Distinctive elements and special features characterize the new Supercenter, which features a merchandise mix created with local customers' preferences in mind, including family-oriented departments, bold colors and popular foods. The store is also built to minimize its impact on the environment as the latest of Wal-Mart's High-Efficiency (HE.2) stores to open. Located at 1801 Marketplace Dr., the store anchors the 48-acre Centerville Marketplace West shopping district and is part of a neighborhood revitalization effort that brings new energy to a formerly declining area. The HE.2 store is designed to greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use 25 percent less energy than a typical Wal-Mart Supercenter. The HE.2 prototype uses many of the energy improvements from the first generation High-Efficiency (HE.1) stores, and features integrated heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, and lighting innovations to conserve energy. With its relocation, the 195,912-sq.-ft. Garland store features a full line of groceries and several new time-saving features and services. Wal-Mart researched the shopping patterns and preferences of its customers and designed the store to reflect the local Hispanic community. As a result, the store will make fresh corn and flour tortillas and chips daily. The deli will also offer fresh-baked bolillo and pandulce, and the produce department will include an expanded selection of bananas, plantains, chilies and spices. Customers can pick up bulk packages of specially marinated meat, rice and beans. Near the entrance, shoppers will find a La Micha juice bar and a special shop with merchandise for the latest holiday or upcoming sporting event. A new youth-oriented department displays children's furniture, bedding and home decor together. Bold colors, popular brands and the latest fashions fill the store's apparel and home decor sections. The store also has expanded its selection of children's and infant apparel and accessories. In addition to the latest electronics, the store offers a wide variety of Spanish-language music, movies, games and other entertainment choices. The new Supercenter will have a Wal-Mart MoneyCenter to assist customers who are outside of mainstream banking with access to low-cost money services, including check cashing, money orders, bill payment and money transfers.