RICHMOND, Va. – The new “campus concept” Walmart at Virginia Commonwealth University opens Wednesday, April 29.
According to the company, the store is part of a pilot program designed to provide “students and faculty, as well as the surrounding neighborhood, more convenient access to affordable products.”
The new Walmart, approximately 4,100-square-foot, is located at 912 W. Grace Street. There will be a pharmacy and groceries, in addition to general merchandise.
The ribbon-cutting happens at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29
The “Big Family Welcome” for VCU is on Saturday, May 2. Customers have a chance to meet the store manager and enjoy free samples while supplies last. That event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A quarter-century ago, the 900 block of West Grace Street in Richmond’s Fan District was known as the “battle zone ” by cops and as a party zone by just about anyone else under 40.
When news of the planned establishment broke, social media was buzzing.
“Students have indicated that they wanted to have it in a survey that was done,” explained Diane Reynolds, assistant Vice President of VCU Business Services. “Also, as we try to revitalize the area with additional retailers other than soley restaurants and food, that we want to bring in something that matches the needs of students.”
The first Walmart on Campus opened at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville in January 2011, and three more have opened in states across the country.
