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Walmart recently announced that their senior shopping hour would remain reserved for seniors indefinitely, with the hopes of keeping high risk customers safe while shopping amidst coronavirus. However, the current senior shopping window is Tuesdays from 6 to 7 AM, leading many customers to complain that it is too early.
Walmart senior VP Tom Ward explained the decision to maintain the senior shopping hour: "These are extraordinary times, and we are constantly looking for ways we can help deliver that same peace of mind to all our customers, particularly those who are most at-risk."
Despite these good intentions, many of Walmart's senior customers are unhappy about the time frame. According to Inc., several customers have complained about it being too early in the morning, as well as pointing out that it is only reserved one day a week.
One senior wrote, "I’d have to wake up at 4:30 get dressed and out the door by 5:30 in order to arrive at Walmart by 6:00.I don’t drive in the dark for your safety."
Another reader expressed their frustrations: "I am a tail-end Baby Boomer and over age 60. While it’s admirable that Walmart (and other retailers) are opening early for ‘seniors’ and those with compromised immune systems/other health issues, I will not be getting up at 5 a.m. to go shopping!"
In addition, customers have complained that some Walmart locations are not enforcing the senior-only shopping restrictions and allowing younger shoppers in the store during their reserved window.
