Pocono News Section

Bilingual Wal-Marts

Bilingual Wal-Marts - Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 8:00PM EST

WILKES-BARRE -- Wal-Mart is set to open Hispanic focused supermarkets this summer in Arizona and Texas. This includes a different layout, Spanish language signs, more Spanish DVD's and music and ethnic foods. If the Hispanic focused supermarkets are a success they may continue to pop-up elsewhere.
Critics say Wal-Mart is putting profit before patriotism and is discouraging non-English speaking consumers to learn the English language.

Supporters say the company is finding a way to make a profit during the recession by catering to consumers with a need. With over a 20% growth in the Hispanic population over the last 5 years, many claim Wal-Mart is doing what they have done in the past. When the company offered retail health services and drug prices they addressed a consumer desire. By addressing the desires of a growing minority, many expect the company to be even more profitable.

Will the bilingual Wal-Marts be successful? Will consumers applaud or protest the move? WYOU Interactive discusses the issues with Ivette Trent of the Luzerne County Community College Multicultural Learning Center and Beatriz Mallory of the Hispan-America Marketing Firm.