CopIn the 1980s, Wal-Mart continued to grow rapidly due to the huge customer demand in small towns, where most of its stores were located. Commenting on the growth of Wal-Mart, Walton said: “When we arrived in these small towns offering low prices every day, customer satisfaction guaranteed, and hours that were realistic for the way people wanted to shop, we passed right by that old variety store competition, with its 45 percent mark ups, limited selection and limited hours.” Wal-Mart stores were located at a convenient place in a big warehouse-type building and targeted customers who bought merchandise in bulk. Customers could buy goods at wholesale prices by becoming members and paying a nominal membership fee. By 1984, there were 640 Wal-Mart stores in the US, generating sales of about $4.5 bn and accruing profit of over $200 mn.