This is part of a company-wide initiative to upgrade Walmart stores across the county.

Walmart Sr. Vice President and West U.S. Business Operations Lead Jay Corday said the remodels are to enhance the store’s role in the communities they serve.

“By investing in our stores and associates, we are not only improving the shopping experience but also reinforcing our commitment to being a vital part of the community’s fabric, helping to build a brighter future for all,” he said.

There are four key goals with remodeling. The first is a cosmetic signage updates. Work includes new displays and showcases. The second change is an expansion to certain departments with new items. The online pickup and delivery area will be expanded to fulfill growing online customer orders.

Since early April, a section of Walmart’s parking lot has been fenced off with shipping containers and equipment. The materials are part of a remodel going on at the store. There are 22 Walmarts in Minnesota going through similar remodels.

Last the pharmacy will be remodeled to feature wider aisles, private screening rooms and privacy checkout areas.

“It will give the store a new look,” said New Ulm Walmart manager Nick Hanevik. He believed the most noticeable changes would be flooring and store layout. There will also be some expansion to certain departments. The store is trying to expand selections to meet customer needs.

“We’re trying to adapt to what the customer wants in the community,” Hanevick said.

The work at the New Ulm store began in mid-April and is expected to be complete in mid summer. Most of the remodel work is being done on the interior of the store with some aisles and department already shifted. Store hours are not expected to be affected.

The Walmarts in Fairmont and Sauk Centre are among the 22 Minnesota stores receiving upgrades.In the last five years, Walmart has invested more than $195 million to upgrade stores throughout Minnesota. The Journal reached out to Walmart to determine how much this renovation would cost, but was unable to get a figure.

Signage at Walmart advertises the improvements coming to the store this spring and summer. The New Ulm Walmart at other Minnesota stores are receiving upgrades that will impact signage, department expansion, online picks up and pharmacy improvements.