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Big-box store is a term in the retail trade that refers to a type of store that stocks a huge inventory of products. There are several types of "big-box-stores." The three most common are:

• The category-killer: A narrow focus (for example, sporting goods, office supplies & equipment, electronics) with a vast array of goods in that niche. (Examples: Lowe's, Office Depot, Staples, Best Buy).
• The superstore, megastore, and supercenter: General merchandisers that offer a vast array of consumer merchandise at discounted prices. (Examples: Target, Walmart)
• Wholesale clubs: After paying an annual fee, consumer can purchase items at "wholesale" prices. (Examples: Sam's Club, Costco)

Traditionally, a big box store is a large, free-standing, rectangular, generally single-floor store built on a concrete slab. Floor space several times greater than traditional retailers in the sector, in North America generally more than 50,000 quare feet, sometimes approaching 200,000 square feet.

Controversies

Opponents criticize big boxes for being visually overbearing, wasteful of open space, and deleterious to community and small businesses. Proponents point to consumer benefits from greater convenience and lower cost of goods, and the ability of such stores to draw in tax-generating consumers from a wide area.

See also

External links