Dive Brief:

• Wal-Mart Stores Inc. U.S. president Greg Foran said Wednesday that the retail giant aims to boost sales by making significant improvements to its physical stores, making them more appealing and better stocked, with fresher food and faster checkout.

• The retailer's recent moves to boost its number of smaller, more urban formats is part of this brick-and-mortar plan. Changes to existing stores include improved lighting, shelving, store layout, and temperature; Wal-Mart will also push to include merchandise that is tailored to a store’s local community.

• Wal-Mart's recent increase to its wages is also part of the plan, making it possible for stores to hire employees that can be the most helpful to customers. Foran says the retailer is working on stores now so that they’re ready for Christmas this year.

Dive Insight:

Greg Foran’s informal meeting with investors Wednesday revealed a strong push to improve Wal-Mart Stores’ physical outlets, which have seen diminished foot traffic in recent years. This comes after quarters where the retailer emphasized improvements to its e-commerce and cuts to its stores. 

But of course stores are key for any brick-and-mortar retailer, and Foran said that Wal-Mart’s are in need of attention.

“We want this year to be the year of improving our stores, so by the time we hit holiday season, our stores are clean, tidy, well-merchandised and run by engaged associates,” Foran said. “Today, in the main, they’re not.”