Consumers Torn By Wal-Mart Practices, Prices

In what Al Norman calls 'the Wal-Mart Paradox,' many shoppers hate no company more, but can't resist "Everyday Low Prices."

1 minute read

July 8, 2004, 6:00 AM PDT

By Jeffrey Goodman

Pity the public relations man at Wal-Mart; he has feelings too. "The criticism, to be very honest with you, hurts," says Gus Whitcomb, "This is a company that is trying to help." Under attack from a diverse group including NOW, unions, a former Miss America, and anti-sprawl activists, Wal-Mart has been forced to change how it relates to its customers, introducing gentler commercials and public outreach programs. Many professors see an elitist overtone to the anti-Wal-Mart crusade; upper- and middle-income consumers can afford to shun the retail giant while low-income shoppers have few alternatives.

Thanks to Jeffrey Goodman

FULL STORY: A hard bargain

Wednesday, July 7, 2004 in The Baltimore Sun

Community / Economic Development United States

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.