Wal-Mart Gives Online Peek at Marketside Format

ELLIOT ZWIEBACH

PHOENIX — Wal-Mart Stores, Bentonville, Ark., launched a website for its Marketside concept last week that gives some insights into how the format might be operated when it opens the first four stores in this area later this year.

Marketside.com describes Marketplace as “a small community grocery store owned by Wal-Mart Stores.”

It says the stores are being designed for “the quick grocery trip. So when you think of food, think of Marketside — and get inspired to think beyond your typical dinner menu.”

According to the site, the stores will offer “a wide selection of complete meal solutions, fresh ingredients and everyday favorites at affordable prices. With us you'll never have to compromise quality to get a lower cost. And we're right in your neighborhood.”

Previous reports have indicated that the Marketside concept, which is expected to measure about 15,000-20,000 square feet, will be more upscale than the company's other formats and will focus on store brands, prepared foods and meal solutions.

The website directs people interested in working at the stores to apply online and then come to the company's recruiting office in Tempe, Ariz., starting today. It says the stores have openings for meal specialists and pantry controllers.

Meal specialists will “work as a team to provide excellent customer service across all operational areas of the store,” according to the website. “Their job is varied, including cashiering; food preparation and service; merchandising; and store presentation.

“Perhaps the most fun, however, is the opportunity to engage with customers, sharing cooking tips or providing recommendations for meal solutions.”

Pantry controllers will receive and stock merchandise, reconcile invoices, and manage the overall inventory levels, the website indicates.

The other two positions at the stores are managers and assistant managers, but the website does not indicate if any of those jobs are still open.