What Time Will Walmart Open for Black Friday A Shoppers Guide to Deals

What time will Walmart open for Black Friday? Ah, the question that sparks anticipation, strategy, and maybe a little bit of pre-dawn caffeine consumption! It’s a tradition, a ritual, a shopping experience unlike any other. For those eager to snag the best deals, the quest for information begins long before the turkey is carved. This isn’t just about scoring a bargain; it’s about the thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of fellow bargain hunters, and the satisfaction of victory – or at least, a good deal on a new TV.

We’ll journey through Walmart’s Black Friday landscape, from its historical roots to the modern-day online blitz. We’ll uncover the secrets behind those opening time decisions, explore the best resources for up-to-the-minute information, and arm you with the knowledge to navigate the crowds with grace (and maybe a folding chair). Prepare for a deep dive into the strategies, the advantages, the potential pitfalls, and, most importantly, how to maximize your chances of Black Friday success at Walmart.

General Overview of Black Friday at Walmart

Black Friday at Walmart is a retail phenomenon, a day etched into the calendars of bargain hunters across the nation. It’s a day of frenzied shopping, marked by early morning rushes, long lines, and the pursuit of deeply discounted merchandise. Walmart, a retail giant, has consistently played a pivotal role in shaping the Black Friday landscape, transforming it from a post-Thanksgiving tradition into a highly anticipated event.

Walmart’s Black Friday Sales Strategy

Walmart’s approach to Black Friday is a carefully orchestrated campaign designed to maximize sales and customer engagement. This involves a multi-pronged strategy that encompasses both in-store and online offerings, catering to a wide range of shoppers.To understand this strategy, let’s look at the key elements:

• Doorbuster Deals: These are the headline-grabbing discounts, the “gotta-have-it” items that lure customers into stores early. These deals are often limited in quantity and available for a specific time window, creating a sense of urgency and driving foot traffic. Consider a scenario where a 65-inch 4K Smart TV is advertised for an incredibly low price for the first two hours of the sale.

  This incentivizes shoppers to arrive well before the store opens.

• Online Promotions: Recognizing the growing importance of online shopping, Walmart heavily promotes online deals and offers. These promotions often start before the in-store sales, allowing customers to shop from the comfort of their homes. For example, Walmart might offer early access to Black Friday deals for Walmart+ members.
• Phased Rollouts: To manage crowds and maintain excitement, Walmart often rolls out its Black Friday deals in phases. This approach can involve releasing new deals at different times throughout the day or week, ensuring sustained customer engagement and preventing a single, overwhelming rush.
• Price Matching: While not always applicable on Black Friday doorbusters, Walmart generally offers a price-matching policy, allowing customers to get the best possible price. This policy provides a level of reassurance and encourages customers to choose Walmart, knowing they won’t miss out on a better deal elsewhere.

A Brief History of Walmart’s Black Friday Events

Walmart’s Black Friday journey has been a dynamic one, reflecting changes in consumer behavior and the evolution of retail. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a retail behemoth, the company has consistently adapted its strategies to remain competitive.Here’s a glimpse into the evolution:

• Early Days: In the initial years, Walmart’s Black Friday focused primarily on in-store sales, with a limited online presence. The emphasis was on drawing customers into stores with steep discounts on a wide variety of products.
• The Rise of Online: As the internet gained popularity, Walmart began to embrace online sales. This involved creating a user-friendly online platform and offering online-exclusive deals. The goal was to provide an alternative shopping experience for customers who preferred to avoid the crowds.
• Extended Sales Periods: To accommodate growing demand and alleviate pressure on the stores, Walmart expanded its Black Friday sales period. This often meant starting sales earlier in the week or even earlier in the month, offering customers more opportunities to shop.
• Focus on Technology: Over the years, technology has played an increasingly significant role in Walmart’s Black Friday strategy. This includes the use of mobile apps, online inventory tracking, and enhanced checkout processes to improve the customer experience.

Walmart’s Black Friday Marketing Methods

Walmart employs a diverse range of marketing methods to generate excitement and awareness for its Black Friday sales. These methods are designed to reach a broad audience and build anticipation for the event.The following are the key marketing strategies:

• Early Advertising: Walmart starts promoting its Black Friday deals well in advance of the event. This includes releasing ads in print and online, as well as on television and social media. This early advertising helps to build anticipation and generate excitement.
• Circulars and Flyers: Traditional print advertising, such as circulars and flyers, remains a key component of Walmart’s Black Friday marketing strategy. These flyers provide detailed information about the deals and offers available, making it easy for customers to plan their shopping.
• Social Media Campaigns: Walmart leverages social media platforms to engage with customers and promote its Black Friday sales. This includes posting deals, running contests, and sharing behind-the-scenes content.
• Email Marketing: Walmart uses email marketing to communicate with its customers, sending out newsletters, deal alerts, and exclusive offers. This is a highly effective way to reach a targeted audience and drive sales.
• Public Relations: Walmart actively engages in public relations efforts to generate media coverage and build positive brand awareness. This includes hosting media events and providing information to journalists about its Black Friday plans.

Factors Influencing Walmart’s Opening Times

The anticipation surrounding Black Friday at Walmart is palpable, a yearly ritual marked by eager shoppers and strategic planning. Determining the precise opening hours isn’t a random decision; rather, it’s a carefully orchestrated process influenced by a multitude of considerations. These factors, both internal and external, play a crucial role in shaping the shopping experience for millions.

External Factors Impacting Opening Times

External influences exert considerable pressure on Walmart’s decision-making process. These considerations ensure alignment with broader community standards and competitive strategies.Local regulations are paramount. Some municipalities have specific ordinances regarding retail operating hours, particularly on holidays. Walmart must adhere to these rules, which can vary significantly by location. For example, a town might mandate that stores remain closed until a certain time on Thanksgiving Day, forcing Walmart to adjust its Black Friday opening accordingly.Competitor actions also weigh heavily.

Walmart constantly monitors the strategies of its rivals, such as Target, Best Buy, and Amazon. If a major competitor announces an earlier opening time, Walmart may feel compelled to respond in kind to remain competitive and capture market share. This can lead to an “opening time arms race” where retailers attempt to one-up each other, potentially pushing opening times earlier and earlier.Consumer demand data is another key element.

Walmart analyzes historical sales data, foot traffic patterns, and online activity to predict peak shopping times. This data helps them understand when the most customers are likely to be present, and adjust opening times to capitalize on this demand. If analysis reveals a significant surge in online pre-Black Friday sales, this could indicate that an earlier opening time on the physical stores is warranted to meet the expected in-person demand.Weather forecasts, though sometimes unpredictable, also play a role.

Severe weather conditions, such as blizzards or hurricanes, can impact store operations and customer safety. Walmart might delay its opening or adjust its hours to ensure the safety of its employees and customers.Public transit schedules and local event calendars can indirectly influence opening times. If public transportation isn’t available until a certain hour, or if a major local event is scheduled, Walmart might need to adapt its opening strategy.

Internal Factors Influencing Opening Hour Decisions

Walmart’s internal dynamics also play a significant role in setting the stage for Black Friday. Careful consideration of these elements ensures a smooth and efficient shopping experience.Staffing levels are a crucial determinant. Walmart needs to have enough employees to manage the expected influx of customers. This includes cashiers, greeters, stockers, and security personnel. Determining the right staffing levels requires forecasting customer traffic, which is a complex process.

The opening time will be adjusted based on the ability to properly staff the store.Store layout and floor plan significantly affect the flow of customers. The placement of high-demand items, the width of aisles, and the location of checkout lanes are all critical. If a store has a limited amount of space or a poorly designed layout, it might need to open later to give employees more time to set up and prepare for the anticipated crowds.Inventory management and product availability are fundamental.

Walmart needs to ensure that it has sufficient stock of popular Black Friday items to meet customer demand. Opening times may be affected by the arrival of merchandise and the time needed to organize the products on the sales floor.Security protocols are a top priority. Walmart implements security measures to prevent theft, manage crowd control, and ensure the safety of both employees and customers.

This includes hiring security personnel, installing surveillance cameras, and setting up barricades. The complexity of these protocols may influence the opening time, with earlier opening times requiring a more robust security setup.Supply chain logistics are critical. Walmart’s supply chain needs to be functioning smoothly to deliver products to the stores on time. Delays in the supply chain can force the company to adjust its opening hours.Technology infrastructure is also relevant.

The point-of-sale systems, online ordering platforms, and mobile apps need to be operational before the store opens. Technical glitches can cause delays and disrupt the shopping experience, which could lead to adjusted opening times.

Historical Opening Times and Trends

Navigating the Black Friday landscape requires a keen understanding of how retailers, particularly Walmart, have historically approached this high-stakes shopping event. Analyzing past opening times and identifying evolving patterns offers valuable insights for shoppers looking to maximize their chances of securing those coveted deals. This section delves into Walmart’s Black Friday history, providing a detailed look at opening times, comparing them with competitors, and examining the trends that have shaped the modern Black Friday experience.

Walmart Black Friday Opening Times: A Five-Year Retrospective

To truly understand the ebb and flow of Walmart’s Black Friday strategy, let’s examine a table showcasing the opening times over the past five years. This will reveal the shifts and adjustments made in response to evolving consumer behavior and market dynamics.

Year	Opening Time	Notable Changes	Source
2019	5:00 PM Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)	Walmart maintained its Thanksgiving evening opening, but spread out deals over several days to manage crowds.	Multiple news outlets reporting on Black Friday sales.
2020	Various Times (Multiple Events)	Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart shifted to a series of Black Friday events throughout November, with staggered start times to control store traffic and promote online shopping. Some events started as early as 7 AM on various days.	Walmart’s official press releases and news reports.
2021	5:00 PM Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)	Walmart returned to a Thanksgiving evening opening, although many stores also opened earlier for online deals.	News articles covering Black Friday 2021.
2022	5:00 PM Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)	Similar to 2021, Walmart maintained its Thanksgiving evening opening, emphasizing both in-store and online deals.	Walmart’s official website and news reports.
2023	6:00 PM Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)	Walmart shifted its opening time to 6:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day, continuing to offer online deals ahead of the in-store event.	Walmart’s official press releases and news reports.

Evolution of Opening Times Over the Last Decade

Walmart’s approach to Black Friday has undergone significant changes over the past decade. The trend has largely moved from an earlier opening on Thanksgiving Day, or even before, to a more balanced approach that includes both in-store and online sales.

• Early Thanksgiving Openings: In the early 2010s, Walmart and other major retailers were pushing the envelope, opening their doors earlier and earlier on Thanksgiving Day, sometimes as early as 6 PM or even earlier. This was a response to growing competition and a desire to capture early-bird shoppers.
• Shift to Online Sales: The rise of e-commerce has dramatically reshaped Black Friday. Walmart, like many other retailers, has invested heavily in its online infrastructure, offering online deals that often start before in-store events. This has allowed shoppers to avoid the physical crowds and shop from the comfort of their homes.
• Staggered Events and Extended Deals: The pandemic accelerated the trend towards staggered events and extended deals. To manage crowds and ensure safety, Walmart and other retailers spread out their Black Friday promotions over several weeks or events. This approach continues to be popular.
• Balancing Act: The current strategy involves a delicate balance between in-store and online sales, offering deals both ways. Opening times on Thanksgiving Day have become the norm, though online sales often start even earlier.

Comparative Analysis: Walmart vs. Competitors

Understanding how Walmart’s Black Friday opening times compare with those of its major competitors, such as Target and Best Buy, provides a broader perspective on the competitive landscape. This comparison helps shoppers make informed decisions about where to spend their time and money.

• Target: Target’s opening times have often mirrored Walmart’s, with Thanksgiving evening openings being a common strategy. They, too, have emphasized online deals and staggered events in recent years. For example, in 2023, Target also opened at 6:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day, showcasing the competitive landscape.
• Best Buy: Best Buy has generally adopted a similar strategy, opening on Thanksgiving evening and offering a mix of in-store and online deals. The specific times can vary from year to year, but the trend has been toward earlier openings.
• Competitive Dynamics: The opening times of these major retailers are often driven by competitive pressures. Each company aims to capture a share of the Black Friday market, and opening times are a key element of their strategies. Retailers closely monitor their competitors’ moves, adjusting their own plans accordingly.

Sources for Finding Opening Time Information: What Time Will Walmart Open For Black Friday

Finding the precise opening time for Walmart’s Black Friday event is crucial for securing those must-have deals. Fortunately, several reliable sources provide up-to-the-minute information, ensuring you’re well-prepared to snag the best bargains. Let’s explore the key avenues to stay informed.

Official Walmart Website and App

The official Walmart website and its accompanying mobile app are your primary resources. These platforms are consistently updated with the latest information, including opening times.

• Website Navigation: The website typically features a dedicated Black Friday section. Look for a prominent banner or a link in the main navigation menu during the holiday season. This section will likely contain a countdown timer, FAQs, and, most importantly, the confirmed opening hours. The design will change from year to year, but usually you can find the link on the homepage.

• App Advantage: The Walmart app offers push notifications, ensuring you receive instant updates directly on your smartphone. The app will notify you when opening times are announced. It’s like having a personal shopper in your pocket, alerting you to the critical details.
• Product Pages: Sometimes, specific product pages will announce the Black Friday availability and the opening time for the event. This approach can be a helpful way to plan your shopping strategy.

Social Media Channels

Walmart leverages social media platforms to engage with its customers and disseminate important announcements. Keeping an eye on these channels is a smart move.

• Facebook: Walmart’s Facebook page is a hub for updates, promotions, and announcements. Watch for posts, live streams, and event pages related to Black Friday. They often post sneak peeks and hints.
• Twitter (X): Follow Walmart’s official Twitter account for real-time updates and breaking news. Retweets from verified sources can also provide valuable information. Expect to find the #BlackFriday hashtag to be trending, making it easy to track the conversations.
• Instagram: Walmart uses Instagram to showcase products, create visually appealing content, and announce special events. Check their stories and posts for Black Friday details. This is an excellent source for visual learners.

Email and Text Alerts

Subscribing to Walmart’s email and text alerts is a direct and efficient way to receive timely notifications. Don’t let your inbox or phone notifications be the ones that tell you about the deals you missed.

• Email Sign-Up: Visit Walmart’s website and look for the option to subscribe to their email list. This is usually found in the footer of the website or during the checkout process. Expect a flurry of emails leading up to Black Friday.
• Text Message Alerts: Walmart often offers text message alerts for special promotions and events. Look for a signup option on their website or app. This method provides rapid notifications.
• Privacy Considerations: Walmart is committed to protecting your personal information. Be assured that the company adheres to strict privacy policies.

Third-Party Websites and News Outlets

While official sources are paramount, reputable third-party websites and news outlets can also provide valuable information, although always double-check the information against the official source.

• Deal Websites: Websites specializing in deals and discounts often compile information about Black Friday sales, including Walmart’s opening times. However, always verify this information.
• Major News Outlets: Major news outlets, such as The Wall Street Journal or the New York Times, often cover Black Friday events and may report on Walmart’s opening times. Cross-reference this information with official sources.
• Local News: Local news stations may provide specific details for stores in your area. This information is valuable because opening times can vary slightly by location.

Anticipating and Preparing for Opening Day

Black Friday at Walmart is a marathon, not a sprint. Proper preparation is the key to navigating the crowds and securing those coveted deals. Understanding the pros and cons of early arrival, assembling an essential kit, and knowing how to stay safe are crucial for a successful shopping experience.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Early Arrival

Arriving early, sometimes even before dawn, offers both enticing advantages and potential drawbacks. Weighing these factors will help you decide the best strategy for your Black Friday expedition.

• Advantages: Securing the best deals is a primary motivator. Limited-quantity items, like deeply discounted electronics or popular toys, often disappear quickly. Early birds also enjoy a wider selection before the shelves are ravaged. Less time spent in the store can also be an advantage, allowing for a quicker exit.
• Disadvantages: The most significant downside is the potential for long wait times, particularly in inclement weather. Spending hours in line can be physically demanding and mentally taxing. There’s also the risk of encountering unruly crowds and potential safety hazards. Early arrival often means sacrificing sleep and comfort.

Essential Items Checklist for Waiting in Line, What time will walmart open for black friday

Preparing a well-stocked “waiting in line” kit can significantly improve your comfort and chances of success. Here’s a checklist of must-have items:

• Comfort:
  • A portable, foldable chair or a comfortable blanket to sit on.
  • Warm clothing, including layers, hats, gloves, and a scarf, depending on the weather forecast.
  • A sturdy umbrella or rain gear in case of precipitation.
• Essentials:
  • A fully charged cell phone and a portable charger to stay connected and entertained.
  • Identification and payment methods (credit cards, debit cards, cash).
  • Any necessary medications.
• Entertainment and Sustenance:
  • Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to stay energized and hydrated.
  • Books, magazines, or a tablet with pre-downloaded content to pass the time.
  • Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to minimize distractions.
• Practicalities:
  • A small flashlight or headlamp for navigating in the dark.
  • A shopping list and any relevant coupons or promotional materials.
  • A small bag or backpack to carry your essentials.

Tips for Staying Safe and Managing Crowds

Black Friday can be chaotic. Prioritizing safety and adopting smart crowd-management strategies is essential.

• Plan your route and know the store layout: Familiarize yourself with the store’s floor plan beforehand. Identify the locations of high-demand items to minimize unnecessary wandering.
• Shop with a buddy: Having a friend or family member with you provides extra eyes and assistance, and helps with crowd control.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Be vigilant about potential hazards, such as tripping hazards or slippery floors.
• Establish a meeting point: Designate a specific meeting spot in case you get separated from your shopping companions.
• Be patient and respectful: Black Friday can bring out the worst in people. Maintain a calm and respectful attitude towards other shoppers and store staff.
• Report any safety concerns: Immediately alert store personnel or security if you witness any unsafe behavior or experience any issues.
• Follow store directions: Pay attention to announcements and instructions from store staff.
• Protect your valuables: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure and out of sight.
• Consider online shopping alternatives: If the crowds become overwhelming, remember that many deals are available online, offering a safer and more convenient shopping experience.

Differences between Online and In-Store Shopping

Navigating the Black Friday frenzy at Walmart involves a crucial decision: to brave the crowds or shop from the comfort of your home. Each option presents a unique set of advantages, disadvantages, and deal opportunities, making the choice a strategic one. Understanding the nuances of online versus in-store shopping is key to maximizing your savings and minimizing stress during this retail extravaganza.

Types of Deals: Online vs. In-Store

Walmart strategically distributes its Black Friday deals across both online and in-store channels, often creating a mix of exclusive offers and overlapping promotions. Online, you’re likely to find a wider selection of products, particularly those that are not easily displayed in-store, like specific models of electronics or less commonly stocked items. In-store, the focus tends to be on doorbuster deals, which are heavily discounted items available in limited quantities to draw customers into the physical store.For example, in past Black Friday events, Walmart has offered online-exclusive deals on high-end televisions, allowing customers to secure these products without the pressure of in-store competition.

Conversely, the stores might have offered aggressively priced gaming consoles or kitchen appliances as doorbusters, creating a mad dash for limited inventory. The deals also vary; some might be the same price, but the online offer may include free shipping, or an in-store deal could have a special bundle. The most successful shoppers often check both the online and in-store ads to see where the best value lies for the items they want.

Advantages and Disadvantages: Shopping Online vs. In-Store

Choosing between online and in-store shopping on Black Friday involves weighing several factors. Each option offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks that can significantly impact your shopping experience.

• Online Shopping Advantages:
  • Convenience: Shop from anywhere with an internet connection, avoiding long lines and crowded stores.
  • Wider Selection: Access a broader range of products, including those that might not be available in-store.
  • Price Comparisons: Easily compare prices across different retailers.
  • Early Access: Often, online deals begin before in-store sales.
  • Avoidance of Crowds: Skip the chaos of Black Friday crowds.
• Online Shopping Disadvantages:
  • Shipping Costs and Times: Shipping fees can add to the total cost, and delivery times may vary.
  • Potential for Technical Issues: Websites can experience slowdowns or crashes due to high traffic.
  • Lack of Immediate Gratification: You won’t receive your items immediately.
  • Limited Interaction: You can’t physically examine products before purchasing.
  • Returns Can Be Cumbersome: Returning items might involve shipping them back.
• In-Store Shopping Advantages:
  • Immediate Gratification: Take your purchases home immediately.
  • Ability to Examine Products: Inspect items before buying them.
  • Potential for Unexpected Deals: Discover in-store-only promotions.
  • Direct Customer Service: Interact with store associates for assistance.
  • Social Experience: Enjoy the excitement of the Black Friday atmosphere (for some).
• In-Store Shopping Disadvantages:
  • Crowds and Long Lines: Prepare for packed stores and significant wait times.
  • Limited Inventory: Door buster deals sell out quickly.
  • Stress and Pressure: The environment can be overwhelming.
  • Travel Time and Cost: Factor in the time and expense of getting to the store.
  • Safety Concerns: Be aware of potential safety issues in crowded environments.

Online Purchase Procedures and In-Store Pickup

Walmart offers a streamlined process for online purchases, often with the convenience of in-store pickup. This hybrid approach combines the ease of online shopping with the immediacy of physical pickup.Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Browse and Select: Visit Walmart’s website or app and browse the Black Friday deals. Add desired items to your cart.
2. Checkout: Proceed to checkout and enter your shipping and billing information.
3. Choose Pickup Option: During checkout, select “Free Pickup” or “Pickup Today” if available.
4. Receive Confirmation: You’ll receive an email or notification confirming your order and providing an estimated pickup time.
5. Pickup Notification: Walmart will notify you when your order is ready for pickup, typically within a few hours.
6. Head to the Store: Go to the designated pickup area, often near the front of the store or customer service.
7. Show Identification: Present your order confirmation and a valid photo ID to a Walmart associate.
8. Receive Your Order: The associate will retrieve your order and hand it to you.

Note: Availability of items for in-store pickup can vary based on product and location. It’s always best to check the availability before finalizing your purchase.

Specific Examples of Past Opening Times

Navigating the Black Friday landscape requires a keen understanding of Walmart’s opening time strategies. These times, varying significantly across locations and years, offer valuable insights into how the retailer adapts to market pressures, local conditions, and unexpected events. Examining past opening times provides a crucial framework for anticipating this year’s schedule and preparing for a successful shopping experience.

Geographical Variations in Opening Times

Walmart’s opening times aren’t uniform; they’re often tailored to local market conditions and customer demand. This localized approach means that a store in a bustling urban center might open significantly earlier than one in a more rural area.

• Example 1: In 2022, a Walmart in downtown Chicago, Illinois, opened its doors at 6:00 AM, catering to the early-bird shoppers eager to snag the best deals before work.
• Example 2: Conversely, a Walmart in a small town in rural Montana might have opened at 8:00 AM or even later, reflecting a different pace of life and a smaller customer base.
• Example 3: A Walmart in Orlando, Florida, a city with a high volume of tourists, might have opened at 5:00 AM to capitalize on the early morning rush and attract visitors looking for deals.

Opening Time Adjustments Based on Circumstances

Beyond geographical location, factors such as store size, local competition, and even the availability of specific products can influence Walmart’s opening times. These adjustments demonstrate the retailer’s responsiveness to market dynamics.

• Example 1: A larger Walmart Supercenter, with a vast selection of merchandise, might open earlier than a smaller, more compact Walmart Neighborhood Market, allowing for more browsing time.
• Example 2: If a Walmart store faced intense competition from a nearby Target or Best Buy, it might strategically open earlier to gain a competitive edge, ensuring it captures the initial wave of shoppers.
• Example 3: In areas where specific high-demand products, like gaming consoles or popular electronics, were heavily promoted, the store might have opened earlier to manage customer flow and prevent overcrowding, ensuring a smoother shopping experience for customers.

Responses to Unexpected Events

Walmart has demonstrated flexibility in adjusting opening times in response to unforeseen circumstances, highlighting its ability to adapt to changing situations. This adaptability is key to maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

• Example 1: During periods of severe weather, such as heavy snow or ice storms, Walmart might have delayed opening times to ensure the safety of both employees and customers. This decision would be communicated through local news outlets and social media.
• Example 2: In instances of significant local events, such as a major sporting event or a local festival that could impact traffic and parking, the store might have adjusted its opening time to avoid congestion and optimize the shopping experience.
• Example 3: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart, like many retailers, altered its opening hours to comply with local regulations and prioritize safety protocols. These adjustments could have included earlier closing times and dedicated shopping hours for vulnerable populations.