Walmart is typically thought of as a big-box store where it's possible to purchase just about everything under the sun—but the retailer is now moving into a new territory with Walmart To Go. This is a new convenience store prototype for the brand that condenses the assortment of groceries and freshly prepared foods with other products that are typically found in convenience stores.
In 2015, this design was recognized by the Association for Retail Environments as a gold award winner in the convenience store category. From the loft-like interior detailing and the subtle "W" shaping of the columns at the adjacent gas station, there are dozens of clever design decisions to support this prototype as a winner.
The first small-format Walmart is now open in the brand's hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas.
Big-Box Convenience Shops
'Walmart To Go' is the Brand's Take on the Convenience Store Format
Trend Themes
1. Small-format Retail - The rise of small-format retail stores like Walmart To Go presents an opportunity for retailers to offer more convenience and personalized experiences to consumers.
2. Convenience Store Innovation - The success of Walmart To Go's convenience store prototype highlights an opportunity for retailers to innovate and improve the convenience store format through unique design and product offerings.
3. Grocery Retail Consolidation - The consolidation of grocery and convenience retail spaces in stores like Walmart To Go reflect an opportunity for retailers to streamline operations and offer a wider range of products to customers.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Industry - The growth of small-format retail and convenience store innovation present opportunities for retailers to expand their offerings and improve the customer experience.
2. Grocery Industry - Grocery retailers can benefit from consolidation of retail spaces and streamlined operations, as seen in the design of Walmart To Go, to potentially increase profits and enhance customer satisfaction.
3. Food Service Industry - By merging the convenience store format with freshly-prepared food offerings, retailers like Walmart To Go create opportunities for the food service industry to expand their reach and create new revenue streams.