Practically every article or cable news channel documentary about Wal-Mart makes it seem as though everyone in the country hates this behemoth mass merchandiser. Apparently it's politically incorrect to shop at Wal Mart. They are taking away customers from America's downtowns and Main Streets. I beg to differ. Wal Mart gives families more for their money. A regular family can stretch their budget dollars here.
When Wal Mart decides to build a new store, many people in the community think of this news as if they had just received a raise in their paychecks. Most grocery, household items, bath and kitchen décor and toys can be bought for less at Wal Mart. What is so awful about wanting to pay the lowest possible price for things? If Wal Mart can sell for lower prices than the downtown stores, I wouldn't hold it against consumers for trying to get the lowest price.
How Wal Mart treats their workers is still an issue constantly discussed in the media. Barbara Ehrenreich, in her book, Nicked and Dimed, worked undercover at a Wal Mart and shares the details of her experience in the book. I believe that Wal Mart may not be the best place to work, in regards to worker benefits and treatment, but that is a topic for a future article.
Wal Mart has not yet built a location in my area which is Bergen County, New Jersey. There are two possible reasons for this. Either the cost per retail square foot is too expensive in my county or the household income in my county is too high and the local residents may not shop there.
The closest Wal-Mart is 15 miles away, in the next county. I shop there once every three months. It certainly isn't convenient but I make a “Wal-Mart” list of things we need for the house which I know can be bought for the lowest price there. At Christmastime I bought beautiful white platinum rimmed plates for $1 each. And we used them for Christmas dinner. Some other “hot” deals I have taken advantage of are:
- Thomas the Tank Engine toys for 20% less than at Toys R Us
- Minivan Vinyl Mats for $10 each
- Wal Mart brand liquid soap for 84¢ ($1.39 at the supermarket)
- Kid's outdoor sleeping bag and tent set for $18.99 (these make a great birthday present for your kid's friends)
- Toddler snap bottom turtleneck for $1.84
For now, count me in when it comes to being a Wal Mart customer. Wal Mart fits in to my frugal style of living.
