Wal-Mart understands that today’s consumers have an incredible array of shopping choices from which to choose. Not only do they  want the best value for their hard-earned dollar, but they also demand outstanding customer service. We realized early on that we must take care of Customers and that part of doing so is  creating a fun, dynamic  shopping environment. At Wal-Mart, we call the concept Retailtainment and our goal is to add excitement to the shopping experience. The result is a fun environment for the Customers and our Associates, but other benefits include increased customer traffic and loyalty because that Customer looks forward to their trip to Wal-Mart.  raised money for the Children’s Miracle Network. Every store is encouraged to  create its own “wild and crazy” Retailtainment events specifically designed for its individual community. Local stores invite clubs and civic organizations to set up exhibits, or ask police and fire departments to conduct safety seminars and demonstrations. To raise money for local charities last year, stores engaged in everything from a ladder drive (in which Associates volunteered to sit on top of a ladder until they solicited a cer tain amount in donations) to Bingo for Seniors, which Wal-Mart also organizes system-wide Retailtainment events. Last May,  all Wal-Mart discount stores and Supercenters participated in an event to support the direct-to-video release of  The Rugrats Discover America . Kids were invited to stores to watch the new Rugrats adventure while they ate snacks. Associates then  took the children on their own “Discover America” adventure through the stores. To enhance the educational value of this promotion, a group of teachers developed a complementary lesson plan, which was distributed to select schools across the United States. The Company, through its Wal-Mart Live Concert Series, broadcast an exclusive satellite concert performance by international singing superstar Ricky Martin in  the home entertainment departments of stores nationwide last year. This televised event coincided  with the release of Martin’s second English-language album. Other concerts presented last year included Garth Brooks, Faith Hill and Backstreet Boys.  “The concert series has  been an extremely successful Retailtainment event. It’s a perfect example of how we provide our Customers with a fun, entertaining shopping environment. Customers can view a free concert in a comfortable atmosphere and also benefit from coinciding promotions that are only available at our stores,” Tom Coughlin, President & CEO of Wal-Mart Stores Division, said. Retailtainment is an area that truly sets our Company apart from  others, and it will continue to be an important area of focus for Wal-Mart. Customers can expect to see more events and promotions exclusive to Wal-Mart stores and their individual communities in the future. By creating a friendly, entertaining atmospher for our Customers, we pr ovide a  fun shopping experience that keeps them coming back. 7 “That’s Retailtainment!” Hit Movies, Hot Stars And Hip Merchandising Keep Customers Shopping