"As other retailers struggle, Wal-Mart steps up its game" by Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff | November 1, 2009
RAYNHAM - Head to the back of the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Raynham and you may be in for a surprise....
While other merchants have gone bankrupt or struggled to survive during this recession, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is growing its empire and capitalizing on the holes left behind.
Makes you ask cui bono from this whole economic crisis.
The discounter behemoth has embarked on an aggressive remodeling effort known as “Project Impact’’ that focuses on an easier shopping experience and an expanded selection of products in electronics, home goods, and fresh foods.
“There’s an opportunity for growth in these areas - it’s a trend we’re seeing in the stores due in part to the challenging economic times,’’ said Wal-Mart spokesman Steven Restivo....
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Retail analysts say the longer the economic recovery takes, the more success Wal-Mart will have holding its core customer base and expanding beyond it. In some cases, this shift could make it more difficult for other, smaller merchants to survive. Wal-Mart is banking on more frequent visits from shoppers by offering a larger selection of beer, wine, bread, fresh-cut fruits, and other groceries, along with a larger pharmacy area with more privacy for consultations.
Everywhere shoppers turn in the Raynham store, they are reminded of value with big new signs emblazoned with “Unbeatable Prices.’’
.... Cecelia Peterson, who previously bought her electronics at Circuit City in Plymouth, is now shopping at the Wal-Mart in Raynham for her DVDs and prepaid cellphones. She also started doing more food shopping here since the store increased its selection. “The prices are just good here. You can’t beat them,’’ Peterson said.
Is the food from China?
Didn't the FDA find problems with the fish, pet food, and other products?
Here is where that reporter went for a bite:
"Friendly’s chain in a sweet spot, CEO says (By Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff)
Related: A Sobering Breakfast
I'll never forget that experience.
The other, a BURIED BRIEF on page B3:
"St. Anselm to remember fallen Marine
A Marine helicopter pilot from Massachusetts who died in Afghanistan is being honored at Saint Anselm College. Captain Kyle Van De Giesen of North Attleborough is a former student and a onetime starting quarterback on the college’s football team.
See: AmeriKa's Afghanistan Abortion
He was remembered with a prayer and a moment of silence before yesterday’s home game against the University of New Haven. The field was painted with a red, white, and blue ribbon, as well as Van De Giesen’s uniform number, 12, and the Marine motto “Semper Fi.’’ The initials KV were added to the team’s helmets. Van De Giesen, 29, was one of 14 Americans killed Monday in a pair of helicopter crashes. He leaves a pregnant wife and a daughter (AP)."
Also related: Your Bottom-Right Corner, Page B4 Body Bag
Boston Globe Buries the War Dead
Boston Sunday Globe battlefield reports today:
You UNDERSTAND what the EMPTY SPACE means, right, readers?
I am going to visit with my friends now, readers, and I will be back in a few hours to begin my foreign desk reports.
