Walmart Trying Again To Break Into New York City

While Walmart has managed to install outlets in just about every major city in the country, the retail behemoth has never been able to crack the shell of New York City’s five boroughs, though it has tried on two recent occasions. A new report claims that Walmart is hoping the third time is the charm, as they look into a spot for a new store in Brooklyn.

Explains some guy from Walmart:

We know that New Yorkers want to shop and work at Walmart, and as a result, we continue to evaluate potential opportunities here… New Yorkers want quality jobs and affordable groceries, and it remains our goal to be part of the solution.

The rumored location is the Gateway II shopping center near Jamaica Bay — far from the chic shops of Manhattan, but still within the city limits.

Unlike past failed efforts in Queens and Staten Island that required City Council approval because of new construction, the decision to move into the already-approved Gateway II could allow them to get around that hurdle.

However, that doesn’t mean people won’t put up a fight. “They’ll have the battle of their lives,” said City Councilman Charles Barron. “Walmart exploits workers… and we want no part of that.”

Opponents also say that the approval of the Gateway II plans should be revisited because they did not account for the full environmental impact a store like Walmart could make in the area.

Walmart eying Brooklyn shopping center for first New York City location [NY Daily News]

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