Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Walmart - PR Genius?

I came across this article recently for a research project I was doing for another class. Although it dates back to January I still find it to be a fasinating campaign put on by Walmart.
As one of the most controversial international corporations, it is no surprise to me their public relations team is one of the best. Their awareness campaigns as well as their crisis communications routinely come under scrutiny but they must be doing something right if it continues to be one of the most shopped at stores, right?

Regardless of their image in the media I thought their efforts in opening a new location in New York were solid. Their PSA was short but direct and very effective. They targeted all the right local newspapers. Most importantly though, they kept an open dialogue with a distinct message. I logged onto their WalmartNYC website and it was extremely interactive and very informative. It gave New Yorkers who wanted a Walmart to open in the area multiple ways to participate in helping to make it happen.
Also that it was a great strategy to talk to New York Walmart shoppers in the surrounding states locations. Its the exact audience your looking for, of course if they are willing to travel to shop Walmart they would much prefer a local location.

In your opinion do you find this attempt to be successful or do you see faulty areas in this campaign?

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