Big-box retailer remodeling stores

Big-box retailer remodeling stores

Wal-Mart Stores, which is traded on the NYSE, operates 11,723 stores under 59 banners in 28 countries. Courtesy Walmart

Several superstores in the region are part of a retailer’s plan to remodel a group of locations in the state.

Walmart announced today an extensive, multi-million-dollar renovation plan for Michigan stores, as well as e-commerce upgrades.

“2017 is going to be an exciting year for Walmart in Michigan, as we continue to focus on how to better serve our customers through innovation and investments,” said Jim Winkler, Michigan regional general manager, Walmart. “We’ve had a sharp focus on making our store experience second-to-none, and our customers are telling us that our plan is working.”

The Arkansas-based retailer plans remodels at 12 locations throughout Michigan: Van Buren Township; Woodhaven; Hastings; Grand Blanc; Portage; Howell; Saginaw; Canton Township; Southgate; Saline; Benton Harbor; and Lansing.

Improvements will be made throughout the stores for time-saving, convenience measures and interactive displays, said Anne Hatfield, director of communications, Walmart. Many of the upgrades will be to improve decision-making as well, Hatfield said.

Last week, Walmart opened a new store in Whitehall, which features many of the updates being made to the 12 existing stores.

Walmart Academy

Walmart also plans to open three Walmart Academies in Owosso, Clinton Township and Kalamazoo. More than 200 academies are being built across the country to provide consistent training for Walmart staff, according to Hatfield.

“We’re making sure we’re setting up folks to succeed and provide better customer service,” Hatfield said. “It lays out a clear path within the company. The opportunities are endless.”

The Kalamazoo training center opens next week.

Walmart

The retailer said it spent more than $3 billion with Michigan suppliers in fiscal 2016.

Walmart has nearly 4,000 stores worldwide.