Two Walmart stores in San Diego County, located on 2121 Imperial Ave. in San Diego and 605 Fletcher Parkway in El Cajon, are set to close next month, the retail corporation announced on Wednesday. This decision comes as a result of the stores’ underperformance and Walmart’s inability to meet lease renewals with the property managers.
The closure has sparked mixed reactions from customers and local Business owners. Adrian Ibarra, a frequent customer of the Parkway Plaza Walmart, expressed his disappointment, stating, “It’s sad because I love coming here to Walmart. I really do. It’s great prices and really convenient for me too.” Similarly, Alicia Philips, another patron of the Parkway Plaza Walmart, shared positive experiences with the employees and the store itself.
On the business front, Cindy Gomez, the owner of Hacienda Casa Blanca, a Mexican restaurant near the Walmart on Parkway Plaza, noted the importance of Walmart to the El Cajon community. While she doesn’t anticipate a significant impact on her business, she remains hopeful about the future of Parkway Plaza and the surrounding area.
These closures come at a time when brick-and-mortar retailers are facing challenges from e-commerce and changing consumer behavior. The impact of these closures extends beyond the retail sector and encompasses the broader community, raising questions about the future of retail in the region.
Both Walmart locations are expected to cease operations on February 9th. The affected associates will have the opportunity to transfer to nearby Walmart stores in the area, according to the company.
The closures serve as a reminder of the evolving landscape of retail and its implications for communities and businesses. As the affected areas adapt to these changes, stakeholders are left to navigate the shifting dynamics of the retail environment.
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