It was an exciting day – not simply because of the fresh new “big city” look of the store. It was an exciting day for our community as a whole, and we were thrilled to be there to help celebrate the newly remodeled Walmart Supercenter at 601 N. Lincoln Road.

Though the physical investment includes a new store layout, new features and displays, and fresh coats of paint, Walmart’s investment is about more than that: It’s about new energy, continued jobs and growth, and even greater opportunities here in Delta County.

Walmart’s commitment to reinvesting in this store is a huge win for economic development. The investment keeps money local, attracts more shoppers to our area, encourages employees to grow with the company, and strengthens the foundation for other businesses to grow and succeed.

Along with being a place to shop, Walmart is known for giving back to the community through awarding local grants, supporting community events, and stepping up whenever the chamber needs a hand. That kind of partnership makes a tangible difference.

At the Sept. 5 ribbon-cutting ceremony for Escanaba's Walmart Supercenter, Front End Coach Veronica Swisher, left, presented a $1,000 check to Connie Mayville of the Community Foundation of the Upper Peninsula. The funds will go toward the organization's Feed the Kids backpack program. (Contributed photo)

Delta County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Vickie Micheau spoke for the entire chamber staff in voicing her appreciation to Walmart for their investment in the Delta County community:

“On behalf of the Delta County Chamber, we want to say how much we appreciate Walmart’s ongoing investment in our community and the positive impact this remodeled store will continue to bring to businesses and families,” she said. “We also want to recognize the Walmart employees. They are the heart of the Escanaba store–I know first hand that their hard work and welcoming spirit make shopping at Walmart a positive experience. This remodel makes their workplace better too, and we thank them for all they do for their customers and our community.”

Escanaba Walmart store Manager Christine Bauer recognized her valuable employees at the ribbon-cutting event: “It’s not just one person that makes our store successful. Our associates go the extra mile to take care of our customers. At Walmart, we’re always focused on finding new and exciting ways to enhance our customers’ shopping experience,” she said. “This is the store’s most significant remodel in twenty years, and we’re thrilled to present our customers with a variety of new features and improvements. I’d like to extend a big thank you to our dedicated associates and store leadership teams for their exceptional efforts throughout the renovation.”

It was clear that Walmart staff didn’t just cut a ribbon at the grand re-opening — they celebrated growth, convenience, and a company that believes in investing in the communities they serve. To illustrate its commitment to the local community, the store presented $7,000 in grants to local non-profit organizations, including the Community Foundation of the Upper Peninsula, which had a representative at the event to receive a $1,000 check.

Congratulations to the entire Walmart team! We would like to thank the Walmart management team for choosing Escanaba and Delta County to grow their store. And remember–this ribbon isn’t just about a remodel; it’s about economic growth and community development.

VICTORIA LAFAVE

For information about joining the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, call 906-786-2192, go to deltami.org, or search “Delta County, Michigan — Chamber of Commerce” on Facebook. Victoria LaFave works as media and communications officer for the Delta County Chamber of Commerce.