There’s PR and then there’s PR.
The Wal-Marting of America has brought the retail behemoth its share of criticism – from unions to small, locally owned businesses. In its defense, the company has gone on the offensive. Its critics have cried “PR” gambit.But Wal-Mart has done more than issue press releases pointing out that it supports local charities and wouldn’t be nearly so successful if it weren’t responding to the marketplace by saving shoppers money.
Over the next two years, Wal-Mart will build more than 50 stores in some of the most challenging urban areas in the country. Areas where the crime and unemployment rates remain daunting. Areas dotted with contaminated sites and vacant buildings. Areas where the private sector has good, bottom-line reasons to stay away.
At least 10 of the stores will anchor “Wal-Mart Jobs and Opportunity Zones” that will help local businesses with free advertising, seminars and grants to local chambers of commerce. Wal-Mart estimates that between 15,000 and 25,000 jobs will be generated.
Sure, it’s PR. But it’s more than spin. It’s spend.