Walmart Supercenter in Wake Forest, NC Your Guide to Shopping

Walmart supercenter south main street wake forest nc – Welcome to the world of retail, where the gleaming aisles of the Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, NC, beckon! More than just a store, it’s a bustling hub, a community meeting place, and a treasure trove of everything from fresh produce to the latest tech gadgets. Imagine embarking on a grand adventure, where the quest for the perfect avocado is as exciting as discovering a hidden gem in the electronics department.

We’ll delve into the heart of this retail giant, exploring its layout, uncovering its offerings, and understanding its role in the vibrant tapestry of Wake Forest.

This isn’t just about listing products; it’s about painting a vivid picture. We’ll navigate the store’s geography, from the bustling produce section to the calm of the pharmacy. We’ll learn how to find your favorite items, whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a first-time visitor. We’ll uncover the secrets of its customer service, and get the lowdown on the special promotions.

Prepare to be informed, entertained, and perhaps even inspired to see your local Walmart in a whole new light. So, grab your virtual shopping cart and let’s explore!

Table of Contents

Store Location & Accessibility: Walmart Supercenter South Main Street Wake Forest Nc

Navigating to and around the Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, North Carolina, should be a breeze, whether you’re driving, taking public transport, or simply walking from a nearby business. This section details the store’s exact location, provides directions, discusses public transportation, and Artikels parking availability.

Exact Address and Directions

Finding the store is straightforward. The Walmart Supercenter is located at 2114 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587.To get there from downtown Wake Forest, begin by heading south on South Main Street (US-1A). Continue on South Main Street for approximately 2.5 miles. The Walmart Supercenter will be on your right. Key landmarks along the way include the Wake Forest Town Hall and the Wake Forest High School.

Public Transportation

While Wake Forest’s public transportation options are limited, the GoWake Bus system serves the area. Determining the exact proximity of GoWake bus stops to the Walmart Supercenter requires checking the GoWake website or app for the most up-to-date route information. These details will specify the closest stops and their distance from the store.

Parking Availability

Parking at the Walmart Supercenter is plentiful. The store offers a large parking lot designed to accommodate a high volume of vehicles. While the exact number of parking spaces fluctuates, it’s safe to assume there are several hundred available. There are also designated parking spaces for people with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all shoppers. These spaces are located close to the store’s entrances for convenient access.

Nearby Businesses

The surrounding area features a variety of businesses, offering convenience and additional shopping opportunities. The following table provides details on some nearby businesses and their approximate distances from the Walmart Supercenter:

Business Name	Type of Business	Approximate Distance	Notes
Wake Forest Crossing Shopping Center	Shopping Center	Across South Main Street	Offers a variety of retail stores and restaurants.
Chick-fil-A	Restaurant	Adjacent to Walmart	Convenient for a quick meal before or after shopping.
Walgreens	Pharmacy/Retail	Approximately 0.3 miles	Provides pharmacy services and general merchandise.
Wake Forest High School	Education	Approximately 1.5 miles North	A local high school.

Store Layout & Features

Welcome to Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, NC! This location, designed for your convenience, is structured to make your shopping experience efficient and enjoyable. From the moment you enter, you’ll find a logical flow that guides you through a wide array of products and services. Let’s delve into the details of what makes this store a community hub for everyday needs.

Department Locations

The layout of the Walmart Supercenter in Wake Forest is designed with a clear and intuitive flow. Upon entering, you’ll typically find the grocery section to your right, offering fresh produce, dairy, and frozen foods. This placement encourages customers to quickly grab essentials. The general merchandise areas, including electronics, clothing, and home goods, are usually located further into the store, allowing for browsing and impulse purchases.

The pharmacy is often situated near the entrance for easy access to prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. Checkout lanes are strategically placed throughout the store to minimize wait times, especially near high-traffic areas like the grocery and electronics departments. The layout is also designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable shopping experience for everyone.

Key Departments and Offerings

The Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street boasts a diverse range of departments catering to every need. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Grocery: This department is a cornerstone, offering everything from fresh produce and meats to pantry staples and frozen meals. You’ll find a wide selection of national brands alongside Walmart’s Great Value and Marketside brands, providing options for every budget. Expect to see seasonal items like pumpkins in the fall and grilling essentials in the summer.
Electronics: This department showcases the latest gadgets, including TVs, computers, smartphones, and accessories. There’s often a dedicated area for gaming consoles and video games. The selection includes well-known brands and affordable alternatives, with knowledgeable staff available to assist with purchases and provide technical support.
Clothing: The clothing department caters to all ages and sizes, with options for men, women, and children. You’ll find everyday wear, activewear, and even seasonal apparel. Brands range from Walmart’s in-house labels to popular national brands, offering a wide array of choices for every style and budget.
Home Goods: This section offers a variety of products to furnish and decorate your home, including furniture, bedding, kitchenware, and small appliances. You can find everything from basic essentials to stylish decor items, providing a one-stop shop for home improvement needs.

Services Offered

The Wake Forest Walmart Supercenter provides a variety of convenient services to enhance your shopping experience:

Pharmacy: The pharmacy is typically open during extended hours, including evenings and weekends, to provide prescription fulfillment, over-the-counter medications, and health consultations. Operating hours are usually displayed prominently near the pharmacy entrance and on the Walmart website.
Photo Center: The photo center offers services such as photo printing, passport photos, and photo gifts. This is a convenient option for preserving memories and creating personalized gifts. Hours of operation are generally similar to the store’s overall hours, but it’s always best to confirm directly with the store.
Vision Center: The Vision Center provides eye exams, contact lens fittings, and a wide selection of eyeglasses and sunglasses. It is staffed by licensed optometrists and opticians, ensuring professional eye care services. Operating hours often align with the store’s schedule but may vary, so it is recommended to check ahead.
Other Services: The store may also offer additional services such as a Money Center for financial transactions, a cell phone kiosk, and a Western Union service. These services aim to provide customers with a comprehensive shopping experience.

Unique Features

The Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest often incorporates special features to enhance the shopping experience:

Garden Center: During the warmer months, the garden center becomes a hub for plants, gardening supplies, and outdoor living items. It offers a selection of flowers, shrubs, and trees, along with tools, fertilizers, and other gardening essentials. This feature is especially popular during spring and summer.
Auto Care Center: This center provides automotive services, including tire changes, oil changes, and other maintenance services. It’s a convenient option for keeping your vehicle in good condition while you shop. The Auto Care Center usually operates with its own specific hours, which are typically listed at the service center and online.
Food Court: A food court may be present, offering a variety of quick-service dining options. These can range from McDonald’s to other local or national food vendors, providing a convenient place to grab a bite to eat during your shopping trip.

Special Promotions and Sales

The Wake Forest Walmart Supercenter regularly features special promotions and sales to provide value to its customers. These offers can vary, but here are some examples:

Rollback Prices: Walmart frequently offers rollback prices on a variety of items, which can be identified by the rollback tag. These temporary price reductions are available on everything from groceries to electronics.
Clearance Sales: Clearance sales are held to clear out seasonal or overstocked items. These sales can offer significant discounts on a wide range of products.
Weekly Ad Specials: Each week, Walmart releases a new ad featuring special prices on selected items. These ads are available in-store, online, and through the Walmart app.
Seasonal Promotions: Walmart runs seasonal promotions tied to holidays, back-to-school, and other special events. These promotions can include discounts on holiday decorations, school supplies, and seasonal apparel.
Online Specials: Walmart.com often features exclusive online deals and promotions, which can include free shipping or discounts on select items.

Products & Services Availability

At Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, North Carolina, you’ll find a vast selection of products and services designed to cater to a wide range of needs. From everyday essentials to specialty items, this location aims to be a one-stop shop for the community. Let’s delve into the specifics of what you can expect to find.

Grocery Items

The grocery section at Walmart is a cornerstone of the store, providing everything needed to stock your kitchen.

Fresh Produce: A vibrant display of fruits and vegetables awaits. You can typically find apples, bananas, oranges, berries, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a rotating selection of seasonal items. The freshness is maintained through regular stocking and refrigeration.
Meat: The meat department offers a variety of options, including beef, pork, chicken, and seafood. Choices range from individual cuts to family packs. There is usually a butcher on-site to assist with special requests or cuts.
Dairy: Refrigerated cases are filled with milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and eggs. You’ll find a variety of brands and sizes to suit different needs.
Pantry Staples: Shelves are stocked with canned goods, pasta, rice, cereals, snacks, and baking supplies.

Electronics Department

The electronics department is a destination for the latest gadgets and appliances.

Televisions: A range of TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio are available, spanning different screen sizes and technologies, including LED and smart TVs.
Computers and Tablets: Laptops, desktops, and tablets from brands like HP, Dell, and Apple are commonly stocked.
Audio Equipment: Headphones, speakers, and soundbars from brands like Bose, Sony, and JBL are frequently offered.
Gaming: Video game consoles, games, and accessories for popular platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo are available.
Small Appliances: The department also includes small kitchen appliances like blenders, toasters, and coffee makers.

Clothing Options

Walmart provides clothing options for the whole family, from infants to adults.

Women’s Clothing: A wide selection of tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear from brands like Time and Tru, and George.
Men’s Clothing: Shirts, pants, jeans, and outerwear from brands like Wrangler, and George are typically available.
Children’s Clothing: Clothes for infants, toddlers, and older children, including licensed character apparel, are available.
Shoes: Shoes for all ages and genders, including athletic shoes, casual shoes, and boots.
Accessories: Belts, hats, scarves, and jewelry are also offered.

Specialized Services

Walmart offers services designed to enhance the shopping experience.

Online Order Pickup: Customers can place orders online and pick them up at the store, often with designated parking spots for easy access.
Delivery Options: Walmart offers delivery services through Walmart+ and third-party delivery partners, allowing customers to have groceries and other items delivered to their homes.
Pharmacy: A full-service pharmacy is available, offering prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and immunizations.
Photo Center: The photo center provides services for printing photos, creating photo gifts, and developing film.

Finding Product Information

Utilizing the Walmart website or mobile app is a convenient way to find specific product information.

Website Navigation: Visit Walmart.com and use the search bar to find a specific product. You can filter results by brand, price, and other criteria.
Mobile App: Download the Walmart app on your smartphone. Scan product barcodes in-store to see product details, read reviews, and check availability.
Product Details Pages: Each product page provides information like product specifications, customer reviews, and pricing.
Store Availability Checker: The website and app can show you if a product is in stock at your local Walmart store.

Customer Experience & Reviews

Navigating the customer experience at Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, NC, requires understanding a blend of online feedback and on-the-ground observations. This section delves into the store’s reputation, cleanliness, service, and the overall impression it leaves on its shoppers. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects.

General Customer Experience Based on Online Reviews and Feedback, Walmart supercenter south main street wake forest nc

Customer experiences are varied, reflecting the diverse expectations and needs of shoppers. Examining reviews reveals recurring themes and sentiments.Customer feedback often highlights the store’s wide selection of products as a significant advantage. This variety caters to a broad range of needs, from groceries to household goods.

“One-stop shopping” is a phrase frequently used in positive reviews.

However, the sheer size of the store and the volume of customers can sometimes lead to crowded aisles and longer checkout lines, especially during peak hours. This can detract from the overall shopping experience.

Many customers praise the competitive prices, which is a core value proposition of Walmart.
Some reviews mention the helpfulness of the staff, particularly in departments like electronics or customer service.
Negative reviews frequently cite issues with stock availability and disorganized shelves.
The perception of cleanliness varies, with some customers reporting a well-maintained store, while others note areas needing improvement.

Store Cleanliness and Organization

The cleanliness and organization of the store are crucial for a positive shopping environment. This involves observing both the physical appearance of the store and the efficiency of product placement.Based on available data, including customer reviews and anecdotal evidence, the store’s cleanliness fluctuates. Some customers report a consistently clean environment, while others describe instances of spills, cluttered aisles, or unkempt restrooms.

The frequency of cleaning and the responsiveness of staff to address issues directly impact the perception of cleanliness.

Regular cleaning schedules are essential for maintaining a positive impression.
Efficient restocking procedures can minimize clutter and improve the shopping experience.
The presence of visible staff members who are actively cleaning or assisting customers contributes to a sense of order.
Restroom cleanliness is often a significant factor in customer satisfaction.

Comparison of Customer Service with Local Stores

Comparing Walmart’s customer service with that of other local stores provides valuable context. This comparison highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the service model.The customer service experience at Walmart is often contrasted with that of smaller, local businesses. While Walmart may offer lower prices and a broader selection, local stores may provide more personalized service and a greater sense of community.

Walmart’s size and structure can sometimes lead to longer wait times and less individualized attention.
Local stores often benefit from employees who have deeper product knowledge and can offer tailored recommendations.
The availability of self-checkout options at Walmart can be a benefit for some customers, while others prefer the assistance of a cashier.
The responsiveness of customer service representatives in resolving issues is a key factor in customer satisfaction.

Common Complaints and Issues Reported by Customers

Understanding the common complaints helps to identify areas for improvement. This information is gleaned from online reviews, customer surveys, and direct feedback.The most frequent complaints typically revolve around specific areas of the store or particular service aspects. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance the overall customer experience.

Stock availability is a recurring issue, with customers reporting that desired items are often out of stock.
Long checkout lines, especially during peak hours, are a common source of frustration.
Some customers express dissatisfaction with the quality of certain products, particularly perishable items.
The organization of the store, including cluttered shelves and unclear signage, is another frequent complaint.
Customer service response times and the effectiveness of issue resolution are sometimes criticized.

Store Exterior Description

The exterior of the store creates the first impression on customers. This includes the building’s facade, signage, and landscaping.The Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street typically presents a large, rectangular building with a distinctive blue exterior. The main entrance is often marked by a large, prominent Walmart logo. The signage is generally clear and easy to read, guiding customers to various departments and services.

The parking lot is typically expansive, designed to accommodate a large number of vehicles.
Landscaping may include trees, shrubs, and flower beds, though the extent can vary.
The overall impression of the exterior is one of practicality and functionality, reflecting the store’s focus on value and convenience.
The presence of shopping cart corrals and designated areas for online order pickup contributes to the store’s organization and efficiency.

Store Operations & Community Involvement

At the Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, NC, the commitment to seamless operations and active community engagement is a cornerstone of its business practices. The store strives to be a reliable resource for its customers and a supportive partner within the Wake Forest community. This dedication manifests in various aspects, from operational hours and employee contributions to sustainability initiatives and local partnerships.

Operating Hours and Special Event Adjustments

The Walmart Supercenter typically operates with extended hours to cater to the diverse schedules of its customers. This allows shoppers to access essential goods and services at their convenience. However, these hours may be adjusted during holidays and special events to accommodate both customer needs and employee schedules.The standard operating hours are:

Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

During major holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, the store’s hours are modified. For instance, the store may close earlier on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day, allowing employees to spend time with their families. Similarly, it may open later on Thanksgiving Day, giving employees time to prepare for the day. These changes are typically communicated well in advance through in-store signage, the Walmart website, and local media outlets to ensure customers are informed.

Employee Information

The Walmart Supercenter in Wake Forest employs a significant number of individuals, contributing to the local economy and providing numerous job opportunities within the community. While the exact number fluctuates based on seasonal demands and business needs, the store generally employs several hundred associates. These employees fulfill a wide range of roles, from stocking shelves and assisting customers to managing departments and overseeing store operations.The employees are the heart of the store, and their dedication is critical to ensuring a positive shopping experience for all customers.

Community Initiatives and Partnerships

Walmart is deeply involved in community initiatives, partnering with various local organizations to make a positive impact. The South Main Street location actively participates in several programs designed to support the Wake Forest community.Some key areas of community involvement include:

Local Food Banks: The store regularly donates food and essential supplies to local food banks, helping to combat food insecurity in the area.
School Partnerships: Walmart supports local schools through programs that provide funding for educational resources, teacher grants, and student activities.
Disaster Relief: In the event of natural disasters or emergencies, the store works with organizations like the American Red Cross to provide aid and assistance to those affected.
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals: Walmart is a significant contributor to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, raising funds to support children’s healthcare needs.

These partnerships demonstrate Walmart’s commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Wake Forest residents.

Safety Measures and Protocols

The safety and well-being of both customers and employees are top priorities at the Walmart Supercenter. The store implements a comprehensive set of safety measures and protocols to create a secure shopping environment.These measures include:

Security Personnel: Trained security personnel are present throughout the store to monitor activities, respond to incidents, and ensure a safe environment.
Surveillance Systems: The store is equipped with surveillance cameras to deter theft, monitor customer flow, and assist in investigations.
Emergency Procedures: Comprehensive emergency procedures are in place, including fire drills, evacuation plans, and protocols for handling medical emergencies. Employees are trained on these procedures to ensure a swift and effective response.
Sanitation and Hygiene: The store maintains high standards of sanitation and hygiene, with regular cleaning and sanitization of high-touch areas, especially restrooms and checkout lanes. This has become particularly important in recent times.
Accessibility: The store is designed to be accessible to all customers, with features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

These measures, which are continuously reviewed and updated, contribute to a safe and secure shopping experience for everyone.

Waste Reduction and Sustainability Practices

Walmart is dedicated to environmental sustainability, implementing several practices to reduce waste and minimize its environmental impact. The South Main Street store in Wake Forest actively participates in these initiatives.Some key sustainability efforts include:

Recycling Programs: The store has comprehensive recycling programs for paper, cardboard, plastic, and other materials.
Energy Efficiency: Walmart utilizes energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, and other energy-saving technologies to reduce its carbon footprint.
Waste Reduction: The store focuses on reducing waste through various strategies, including optimizing packaging, minimizing food waste, and encouraging the use of reusable shopping bags.
Sustainable Sourcing: Walmart prioritizes sourcing products from suppliers who follow sustainable practices.
Community Involvement: Walmart often partners with local community organizations to promote recycling and environmental awareness.

These sustainability practices are a testament to Walmart’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its dedication to building a more sustainable future.

Local Market Context

Understanding the local market is crucial for Walmart Supercenter on South Main Street in Wake Forest, NC. This involves a deep dive into the demographic makeup of the area, a comparison of pricing strategies, a look at the competitive landscape, seasonal product adjustments, and the impact of local events on store traffic. This comprehensive overview ensures the store can effectively cater to the needs of its customers and remain competitive within the Wake Forest community.

Demographic Profile of Wake Forest

Wake Forest has experienced significant growth in recent years, leading to a diverse demographic profile. The population has seen an increase, with a mix of age groups, from young families to retirees. The median household income is generally higher than the national average, indicating a strong purchasing power within the community.

Age Distribution: There is a noticeable presence of young families with children, along with a growing senior population. This influences the demand for products such as baby supplies, family-friendly foods, and healthcare items.
Income Levels: The area generally enjoys a higher-than-average median household income. This suggests that customers may be willing to spend more on premium products and services.
Education Levels: The educational attainment is relatively high, with a significant portion of the population holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. This demographic often appreciates quality and value, seeking out informed purchasing decisions.
Household Size: The presence of families with children impacts the need for larger pack sizes, bulk purchases, and family-oriented products.
Ethnic Diversity: While primarily a suburban area, Wake Forest has an increasing level of ethnic diversity, which necessitates the stocking of diverse food items and products that cater to various cultural preferences.

Pricing Comparison with Local Grocery Stores

Pricing strategies play a significant role in attracting and retaining customers. Comparing Walmart’s pricing with other local grocery stores provides insights into its competitiveness and areas for improvement. Data is based on regular price checks and promotional offers.

To analyze this effectively, we can compare a basket of common grocery items across different stores in the Wake Forest area. For example:

Walmart: Known for its “Everyday Low Prices,” Walmart typically aims to offer competitive pricing on a wide range of products, including groceries.
Harris Teeter: Harris Teeter, a regional supermarket chain, often positions itself as a premium grocer with higher-quality products. They are known for their frequent promotional events and loyalty programs, which can influence pricing perceptions.
ALDI: ALDI, a discount supermarket, is recognized for its aggressively low prices on private-label products. They can offer significant savings compared to traditional supermarkets.
Local Farmers Markets/Specialty Stores: While not always directly comparable, local farmers markets and specialty stores can offer unique products, sometimes at higher prices, based on freshness, local sourcing, and specialty offerings.

Comparative Pricing Strategy:
Walmart’s strategy revolves around offering consistently low prices. This can be illustrated by the fact that items such as milk, eggs, and bread are priced lower than Harris Teeter, however, the prices may be higher than those of ALDI, which is a discount store. This strategy attracts customers who prioritize value and are price-sensitive. Harris Teeter, on the other hand, utilizes promotions and loyalty programs to provide price advantages to its customers.

Major Competitors and Their Strengths and Weaknesses

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of competitors is essential for Walmart to position itself effectively in the market. This involves evaluating the offerings, customer service, and overall strategies of competing businesses.

Harris Teeter:
- Strengths: Strong reputation for quality and customer service, well-stocked produce and meat departments, and effective loyalty programs.
- Weaknesses: Higher prices compared to Walmart and ALDI, potentially smaller selection of certain product categories.
ALDI:
- Strengths: Extremely competitive pricing, efficient store layout, and a focus on private-label brands.
- Weaknesses: Limited selection of name-brand products, less emphasis on customer service.
Local Specialty Stores and Farmers Markets:
- Strengths: Unique product offerings, focus on local and organic products, and personalized customer service.
- Weaknesses: Higher prices, limited product selection, and inconsistent availability.

Seasonal Changes in Product Availability

Product availability changes with the seasons to meet the evolving demands of customers. This requires careful planning and coordination to ensure that the store is well-stocked with the appropriate products at the right time.

Seasonal product shifts can be categorized as follows:

Spring: Focus on gardening supplies, outdoor living products (e.g., patio furniture, grills), and Easter-related items. There will be an increased demand for seasonal produce like strawberries, asparagus, and other fresh produce.
Summer: High demand for summer recreational items, such as pool toys, beach supplies, and barbecue essentials. This is also the season for ice cream, refreshing drinks, and lighter foods.
Fall: Demand shifts towards back-to-school supplies, Halloween decorations and costumes, and fall harvest products (e.g., pumpkins, apples, cider).
Winter: The focus shifts to holiday-related items (Christmas decorations, gift items), cold-weather apparel, and winter-related necessities (e.g., snow shovels, de-icing salt).

Real-Life Case Example:

In anticipation of Hurricane Florence in September 2018, Walmart stores in the area, including the Wake Forest location, saw a significant surge in demand for non-perishable food items, bottled water, batteries, and emergency supplies. This demonstrates the necessity of adapting product availability based on external events.

Local Events and Their Impact on Store Traffic

Local events significantly influence store traffic and product demand. Knowing these events helps Walmart manage staffing, inventory, and promotional activities effectively.

Here are some examples of local events and their potential impacts:

Wake Forest Farmers Market: Held on Saturdays, this event draws crowds, potentially increasing demand for grocery items, snacks, and drinks before or after the market visit.
Wake Forest High School and other school events: Sporting events, parent-teacher conferences, and school breaks can increase the demand for snacks, drinks, and party supplies.
Festivals and Community Events: Events like the Wake Forest Art & Frame Festival or the Christmas Parade attract large crowds, increasing demand for various items such as food, beverages, and supplies.
Seasonal Events (e.g., Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas): These events drive demand for specific products, from decorations and costumes to holiday meals and gift items.

Managing event-related traffic:

During the annual Wake Forest Christmas Parade, Walmart can anticipate a surge in customers. The store might adjust its staffing levels, extend operating hours, and arrange for special promotions. Additionally, the store can ensure that parking areas are organized to accommodate the influx of shoppers.