Wal-Mart is the largest corporation in the world, and it has obviously enjoyed tremendous success. But while many welcome its location in their communities, others do not. Some complain that its presence has too many negative effects on a community, ranging from traffic congestion to anti-union sentiment to unfair competition.

Suppose Wal-Mart has announced plans to seek approval from the planning commission of a small town to build a new store. Develop a list of the main arguments, pro and con, that could be presented at a public hearing on the matter by members of each of these two groups:

1. Owners of small businesses located nearby.
2. Town residents, and residents of nearby towns.

How might a Wal-Mart representative respond to the negative criticisms that might be brought up, and what other benefits could the representative offer the planning board to bolster Wal-Mart's case for gaining the board's approval?
Use Operations Management concepts and principles for this assignment.