Department stores are large chain stores that some criticize for driving out small businesses, lack of unionization, and questionable environmental practices. They offer low prices due to their size and contracts with suppliers. They are often located along highways and have unremarkable architecture. They can be divided into general stores, category killers, and warehouse clubs. Critics argue they stifle local competition and do not meet their promises to communities. Fans argue they provide convenience and inexpensive products.
Department stores are chain stores that tend to open physically large branches. Some people criticize the business tactics of such stores, arguing that they are designed to drive out small businesses, don’t support unionization, deceive the communities they enter, and some have questionable environmental practices. Fans argue that they provide a convenient and obviously desirable service, since the openings of such stores are usually very well attended.
Several characteristics distinguish a big box store. The first is the sheer size of the facility; they are typically many times larger than comparable stores. As these shops are connected to a chain, they are able to negotiate very lucrative contracts with suppliers and as a result, their prices also tend to be extremely low. Many stores organize their pricing to profit from the total volume of goods sold, rather than each individual piece of merchandise.
These establishments also tend to be located along motorways or interchanges and are typically only accessible by car. Their architecture is usually unremarkable, with only one story construction and few or no windows inside. Some people have commented that department stores are so generic that you can find two different locations in completely separate locations with the same floor plan.
Big box stores can be divided into three rough categories. The first is general stores or department stores like Walmart and Target, which carry a wide variety of products. Category killers are those that focus on a very specific product, such as electronics, furniture or clothing. Warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club or Costco sell merchandise in bulk, with customers getting a discount due to the volume of goods they buy.
Critics have pointed out that these shops often have a very specific plan of attack when they enter a community. Rather than compete with other stores, department stores often try to stifle them. They often start with a large number of staff upfront, along with low prices, to provide a good customer experience that keeps people coming back. Local shops must adapt to their changing market or go out of business; if a department store manages to drive out its local competition, it often raises prices and cuts staff.
When these stores move into communities, they typically provide high plans that include how many jobs they will generate and the community measures they will support. Many communities find, to their disappointment, that these claims are not met once shop is established. Department stores have also been criticized for their opposition to unions and for environmentally unfriendly practices such as distributing large quantities of plastic bags and promoting products made from non-renewable resources. Other critics object simply because they think they are ugly, since they typically lack landscaping or other ornamental features.
Fans of department stores argue that they provide a valuable service, especially to people on fixed incomes, by providing inexpensive products. The promoters also point out that the stores eliminate the need to shop in multiple locations, making shopping more convenient for consumers.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
