Walmart sees positive results after the grand re-opening of 117 remodeled stores. The company has invested over $500 million in the remodels, which include new light fixtures, interactive signs with QR codes, and dressed mannequins. This is part of Walmart’s $9 billion plan to modernize over 1,400 stores in the US. The CEO of Walmart US, John Furner, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the remodels so far, particularly in categories like apparel, pets, beauty, and home.
The renovations have received positive feedback from industry experts as well. Joe Feldman, a Senior Managing Director at Telsey Advisory Group, praised the redesigns as “really well done” and compared them to one of Walmart’s rivals, Target. The new features, such as elevated displays and dressed mannequins, help highlight products and improve the shopping experience.
The physical displays are especially important as sales of general merchandise had a low-single-digit drop in Q3. Feldman believes that the displays show off the style and quality of discretionary goods, giving customers ideas on how to use the products. Consumer psychologist Dr. Cathrine Jansson-Boyd added that physical interaction with products increases the likelihood of purchase and willingness to pay more.
The remodels also aim to change the perception of Walmart as a cheap place to shop. The company has invested in new signage, refreshed interiors, and more prominent pharmacies to update its image. The redesigns showcase branded goods and create a more premium shopping environment.
In addition to physical updates, Walmart has incorporated digital displays with QR codes that provide more information and allow customers to browse similar products. This combination of physical and digital elements helps bridge the gap between in-store and online shopping. Walmart’s advertising business has also seen growth, with revenue from online ads and in-store ads increasing by 26% in Q3.
Walmart plans to continue its remodel program throughout next year based on the positive results seen so far. While the exact sales boost from the remodels was not disclosed, industry experts believe that it has made a significant difference. Walmart’s commitment to investing in these changes shows their confidence in the success of the remodels.
