In what I can only describe as a perfect setting (and headline) for a post, the California town of Hercules has chosen to oppose the introduction of Wal-Mart stores into its city.

This is not a new situation in California, where cities and towns all over the state have chosen to keep Wal-Mart out. The reasons run the usual gamut: loud noise, increased traffic congestion (LA does not need that), protecting smaller retailers, etc.

Hercules is even thinking of invoking eminent domain to seize the land Wal-Mart would like to use for a new store.

Echoing things we've said before, Wal-Mart's PR image is one of a ruthless chain devoted to opening stores everywhere. A quote from this article mentions, "There aren't a lot of good stories about Wal-Mart."

I always have to wonder in cases like this -- are the true feelings of the community being represented in the anti-Wal-Mart protests? The vocal minority can usually play the game well. Do the non-vocal majority want a Wal-Mart and who is asking them?

Food for thought.

Hercules battles Wal-Mart -- literally originally appeared on BloggingStocks on Tue, 23 May 2006 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.