Tulsa World (Oklahoma)

December 12, 2008 Friday
Final Edition

Business; Pg. E3

326 words

Tulsa-area Sam's Clubs to get renovations

TREVOR DAVIS World Staff Writer

The parent company of Sam's Club plans to remodel two of its Tulsa stores. Bentonville, Ark.-based Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said it will remodel its Sam's Club stores at 6922 S. Mingo Road and 4420 S. Sheridan Road starting in the first half of next year.

The Mingo Road remodel will cost about $2.4 million, while the price tag of the Sheridan Road update will be about $2.8 million, according to commercial building permits. "With all of our clubs, we like to do remodels," Wal-Mart spokeswoman Angie Stoner said. "That's something we always continue to do to make shopping more convenient for our members." Work will begin first at the Mingo Road location, she said. "Once the remodels do start, on average, it's about a 16-week process until it's completed," Stoner said. The exterior of the buildings will feature a light tan and blue color scheme, she said. Signs will also be replaced with new ones featuring the Sam's Club logo that was unveiled in 2006. Inside the store, the layout will remain the same, and the store will not change its products, Stoner said. The store, however, will expand its "Fresh Department," which carries items such as produce. Sam's Club will also add more seating near the entrance. The store will remain open during the remodel. "We'll try to make it a smooth experience for everyone," Stoner said. Wal-Mart opened its Mingo Road Sam's Club in 1992, while the Sheridan Road store opened in 1985. The first Sam's Club opened in Midwest City in 1983. Wal-Mart has outperformed other retailers this year as consumers look to save money during the recession. Sam's Club customers pay an annual fee to shop there and receive discounts on items, including many bulk-size packages. Sam's Club remodel What: The stores will add fresh paint and new signs, and expand their freshitem departments Where: 6922 S. Mingo Road, 4420 S. Sheridan Road When: Starting in the first half of 2009 Trevor Davis 581-8387 trevor.davis@tulsaworld.com

December 13, 2008