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Wal-Mart pondering supercentre for Red Deer

Wal-Mart Canada is pondering an expansion of its south Red Deer store that would result in a full range of food products being sold there.

Wal-Mart Canada is pondering an expansion of its south Red Deer store that would result in a full range of food products being sold there.

Kevin Groh, the company’s director of corporate communications, said Wednesday that Wal-Mart is “considering” converting its Southpointe Common outlet into a supercentre. That would entail increasing the size of the 130,000-square-foot building by approximately 30,000 square feet, and adding a complete line of groceries.

“The entire range of foods you’d expect from a full grocery store,” said Groh, listing fresh produce, fresh meat, fresh baked goods and meals to go as among the additions.

The store currently has a limited assortment of food items for sale.

The changeover would likely also result in steps to “refresh and revitalize” the store, especially in popular departments like fashion, electronics, and health and beauty.

Groh stressed, however, that no final decision has been made with respect to the store.

“Nothing is written in stone at this point but it is something we’re giving serious consideration to.”

He added that it’s unlikely anything would happen within the next year.

A Wal-Mart supercentre opened in Sylvan Lake last summer, but at 115,000 square feet it’s much smaller than what’s being considered for Red Deer.

“The supercentre really is our modern format store,” said Groh, adding that they range in size from about 100,000 to more than 200,000 square feet.

“It addresses customers who are looking for more selection under one roof and it builds on the idea of one-stop shopping that’s becoming increasingly popular with Canadians.”

Asked about Wal-Mart’s Parkland Mall store — including the possibility of it moving to another location — Groh said his company assesses all of its stores on a regular basis.

“In this case, it’s not something we’re actively considering.”

hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com