When Walmart comes to town, consumer prices are driven down and jobs are created. But Walmart's expansion has also driven small business out of business all across the country.
Sheryl Nelson knows she can't sell her toys at Walmart prices.
"They buy in such a bulk that we can't even… we actually stay away from those same types of toys they buy for mainly that reason," Kidtopia Owner Sheryl Nelson said.
That's why she tries to carve out a niche market with toys you can't find in the big box store.
"We try to do toys the child can use their imagination on and expand their play, not just toys that dictate to children how to play it. We stay away from characterizations. They can be fleeting and we just want kids to have a good time and we want them to be passed down for generations," Nelson said.
Nelson says her store also tries to set itself apart from the big box with better customer service.
"It's way above the standards Walmart would have. If you're lucky, you could find anyone in the aisle to help you. I would think people would know that, remember that and continue to shop with us," Nelson said.
Nelson says specialty shops like hers are what makes a community unique and Walmart can be a threat.
"It worries me for all local business because that's what makes Sioux Falls unique. We have the diverseness of the local businesses. When you travel anywhere you want to go to find the unique shops, different shops, you don't want all just Walmarts," Nelson said.
Many of the shops in the strip malls in southern Sioux Falls are specialty shops and we spoke with several owners Tuesday, all who did not want to go on camera. But each one told KELOLAND News they don't think the new Walmart on their side of town will hurt business because they say they have a different clientele looking for the unique items they can offer.
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