WAL-MART TO OPEN SAM'S CLUB WAREHOUSE STORES
By Adnews Staff
Wal-Mart Canada of Mississauga plans to open a number of membership warehouse clubs next year. The warehouses will operate under the Sam's Club name, in reference to Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton. The Sam's Club format was introduced in 1983. Stores currently exist in Brazil, China, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Club members can buy merchandise including appliances, home and office electronics, apparel, furnishings and food at wholesale prices. Four to six Sam's Club are scheduled to open in Ontario in the fall of 2003. According to the company, specific locations will be determined in the coming months. Wal-Mart has opened 207 retail stores in Canada since entering the market in 1994. English-language advertising for the chain is handled by Toronto-based Publicis Canada. French-language advertising is handled by Allard Johnson Communications of Montreal. Andrew Pelletier, director of corporate affairs for Wal-Mart Canada, said advertising and marketing plans for Sam's Club are not yet finalized.