big-box store

reesetee commented on the word big-box store

A large-format store with at least 100,000 sq. ft. of retail space. The name arose from the typically box-like exterior of this type of outlet. In bookselling, a big-box store is commonly considered the antithesis of an independent bookstore.

October 23, 2007

bilby commented on the word big-box store

I came across this term about 2 weeks ago on a website. I really didn't understand it.

November 30, 2007

chained_bear commented on the word big-box store

I hear this phrase all the time--but not just in reference to bookstores! I hear it used to refer to K-Mart, Lowe's, Home Depot, Best Buy, CompUSA, huge stores like that.

November 30, 2007

reesetee commented on the word big-box store

Yes, c_b has it right, bilby--I think I mentioned that this is a more general term, not specific to bookselling. In malls, these stores are usually called "anchor stores"--the big ones that sit on the ends of the mall and are presumed to be the biggest drawers of customers.

November 30, 2007

chained_bear commented on the word big-box store

Yes, and now they're not just at malls anymore--they're like destinations unto themselves, built in place of forests teeming with wildlife. Oh joy.

November 30, 2007

reesetee commented on the word big-box store

Right. And they're named "Meadow Glen Forest Mall" and "Waterfalls Gone Shopping Center." Well, at least they are around my neck of what was once the woods. ;->

November 30, 2007

chained_bear commented on the word big-box store

Or they mow down the forest and then call the housing development "____ Woods" or "Forest of _____" or "Fox Run," and name all the streets after the trees they cut down (like they did in my neighborhood).

November 30, 2007

reesetee commented on the word big-box store

Why do I feel as though we're getting off the subject? ;-)

November 30, 2007