Walmart Express debuts in Gentry, Arkansas

Recently Walmart unveiled the first of their Walmart Express stores to the press. According to reports, this Gentry, AK store actually looks like a smaller version of Walmart's 180,000 square foot store, even though it's only 15,000 square feet. The store has exposed pipes and yellow walls, carries about one-tenth of what a superstore carries, but still has a varied selection ("from bacon and milk to socks and DVDs," according to one story.)

According to Walmart, most Express locations will have a pharmacy, and some will sell gas. The stores will generally be located in towns too small for a full-sized Walmart, and in cities where a big store doesn't fit. Fifteen to 20 Express stores are planned by the end of January, 2012, mostly in Arkansas, North Carolina and Chicago. Looking ahead, it's possible they will build 350 stores per year.

In the mean time, the world's largest retailer is experimenting a bit. According to a story in the CSP Daily News, Walmart Express will let customers help determine what they should carry by posting signs that say, "If you want it, we'll get it," and by offering delivery right to the store.

Click here for an external picture of the new Walmart Express store.

Walmart to break ground on small stores

According to Bloomberg, Walmart will begin construction next week on a 14,400 square foot store in Gentry, Arkansas (20 miles from its headquarters). Work on two similar stores in Arkansas will begin in the next two weeks, and Walmart may open as many as 40 smaller stores this year in rural and urban areas.

The story reports that building permits indicate the stores will cost $1.2 million to build and will sit on lots just under 5 acres. They will have 75 parking spaces, a pharmacy and three or four checkout counters, as well as sections for fresh produce, refrigerated foods and frozen items.

From Bloomberg: Wal-Mart to Break Ground on Small Stores Next Week