Not really. But they did say the military families go to Wal-Mart, even when it is more expensive for them to do so:
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Researchers say military exchange stores are losing money to retail giant Wal-Mart.IMHO, without reading the original report, I'd say that this is not a good summary of the research. Either WM offers goods that the military exchange doesn't, or the measure of savings is incorrect. Simply put, people are not that stupid.They say military exchange stores are actually about 9% cheaper than Wal-Mart, and there is no sales tax.
Despite the lower exchange prices, many military families still go out of their way to shop at Wal-Mart.
The company says it builds near military bases because so many military families want to shop at its stores.
Some military exchange stores are considering combining back office operations to be more competitive with Wal-Mart.
Posted by Kevin on November, 26 2004 at 11:45 AM
Jim wrote:About PX's inventory: as of about 2 years ago stateside PX couldn't have TVs larger then 20-23" by law to protect retailors. Secondly, the PX's view of electronics is horribly antiquated: most of it outdated and over priced. Where the PX is good is in regards to clothing as long as you don't need the most trendy they are wonderful
-- November 28, 2004 07:28 PM ∞
Buck wrote:Military folks definitely are NOT stupid. I'm retired USAF, my son is active duty USAF, and we both shop at the BX/PX and Wal-Mart. WHERE we shop depends on what we're shopping for. The BX has advantages in some product lines, such as music, clothing, and toys. I personally think the quality of goods is higher at the BX. And then there's the commissary: I buy nearly all my food at the commissary vs. Wal-Mart. VERY large savings on food, and much better selection of non-US food items. The BX is alive and well in Eastern New Mexico!
-- November 29, 2004 09:07 AM ∞
