2. Observation Lab
Visited 3 stores days before Sandy hit the East Coast.
(All visits part necessity)
The Stores:
Lowes, Target and BJ’s
3. Observation Lab
Environment
Lowes: Chaos with people running around asking for
batteries, generators, drain pipes, gasoline
containers….all which were out of stock.
Target: Limited chaos with staff giving out instructions
at the door about the items in stock and where to
find it and items not in stock
BJs: Gas station was overwhelmed!
4. Observation Lab
Products
Lowes: Everything were arranged to meet the needs of
the people during the hurricane. Sump pumps,
batteries, flash lights, water.
Target: Food, water, flash lights
BJ’s: Again storm necessities.
5. Observation Lab
Customers
Lowes: Most customers knew what they wanted and
most wanted storm accessories. Many sounded
disappointed in lack of planning on part of Lowes
ahead of the storm.
Target: Customers again knew what they wanted and
knew what they were in for.
BJ’s: Customers endured long waits for gas and
surprisingly were buying lot many D batteries.
6. Observation Lab
Suggestions:
Lowes: Have more people up front especially during
emergencies both to direct them to the right place
and also ensure you guys do have what they need so
that they don’t go into the store only to come out
disappointed.
Target: Stock more food upfront during emergencies.
BJ’s: More necessities upfront during emergencies.
