By Nancy Edwards
Local consumers now have another option when choosing a low-cost place to shop 24 hours a day.
The Walmart Neighborhood Market in Fishers recently opened its doors to the public. The approximately 41,000-square-foot store, located at 9354 Ambleside Dr., includes a full line of groceries and an assortment of general merchandise.
In addition, the store has a full pharmacy with a drive-through window.
“We’re excited,” said Store Manager Mekey McAllen. “I’m excited about the location. We’ve had lots and lots of great turnout and the customer feedback has been fantastic.”
McAllen said her goal is for Walmart “to be a store of the community.” During the day, McAllen talks with the customers and attempts to find out what merchandise the public wants if the store does not carry it, and she orders what the customers ask for.
“It’s about making this a true store to the community; I’m listening to what (the customers) want on an item-to-item basis,” she said. “I’m open to all suggestions. We’re getting Morton salt and more motorized wheelchairs. I want us to be that local spot where people want to shop.”
The creation of local jobs is another advantage of having a Walmart nearby. So far 95 associates have been hired, and McAllen said the store is always accepting applications.
“Being able to bring jobs to Fishers and having that availability have been rewarding,” McAllen said. “I love to hire and train associates to help customers with things they need.”
In addition to providing jobs, Walmart is also a store that gives to its community. In 2012, the total cash and in-kind donations from stores, clubs and the Walmart Foundation in Indiana were $31.7 million, which was given to local organizations.
“I love that our foundation gives us money to give,” McAllen said.
Walmart has donated locally to Meals on Wheels of Hamilton County; the Fishers YMCA; the Fishers Police Dept.; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana; Girls on the Run of Hamilton County; Prevail, Inc. Indiana Youth Services Association; the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Foundation; St. George Orthodox Church of Indianapolis and Heartland Church.
