Wal-Mart tapping first solar electric store

2/8/08
“Wal-mart tapping the first solar electric store”
By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/28/2008 12:33:00 PM
In Chino, California Wal-mart stores will be installing its first 390 kilowatt solar power system in an effort to conserve energy as well as money and decrease the greenhouse gas output that Wal-mart has. Wal-mart hopes to install 22 of these solar power systems in Wal-mart stores, Sam’s Clubs, and distribution centers throughout California and Hawaii. The stores are expected to achieve savings on current utilities on the first day of operation.
The entire project is financed by deferred capital expense. "Wal-Mart is moving forward with its commitment to conserve energy, reduce energy costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions -- and this project is a step in the right direction,” said Kim Saylors-Laster, vp of energy, Wal-Mart.
The solar panels that the stores will be using are said to be fifty percent more effective than conventional solar panels. They also are expected to provide up to thirty percent of the total electric power in stores in which they are installed. www.hometextilestoday.com

• Social Trends that you see – which retailers have not yet identified or actively targeted

Of course the Hispanic population is much underrepresented as far as clothing goes. Over the next few years the Hispanic population will more than double, and will become the majority in America. So now is the time for retailers to start doing their research on that population as well actively targeting them.

Customer profile

Forever 21
Forever 21 is a young women’s clothing company that was started in 1984 by Don W. Chang, who is currently the president and CEO. Most consumers are of college age or in high school. Mainly these individuals are very fashion forward and trendy as well as on a budget. Clothing is mass produced, therefore prices are very low. The company is based out of Los Angeles, California, privately held, corporate hierarchy, and employs 6,000 people in the United States.
It’s SIC code is 5621 - Women's Clothing Stores. Current competitors are Charlotte Russe Holding Inc., The Wet Seal Inc., and bebe stores Inc.
On December 31, 2004 at the end of their fiscal year their approximate sales were $640,000,000. Forever 21 is also the parent company for Heritage 1981 and Twelvebytwelve.