Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York & Los Angeles

Wal-Mart has taken quite a lashing in recent years between their flog, poor employee healthcare, putting mom and pop stores out of business and the nabbing of 250 illegal immigrants working at the stores. I think we can safely say that there has rarely been anything to positively spin about this mass retailer. Except now the tide is turning, thanks in part to this downward spiral of our economy. I've been reading it in one story after another--the New York Times, the Houston Chronicle, WWD: Wal-Mart is brushing off the dirt and emerging in a positive light. 

The retailer, who has always projected their image to be one about value with their slogan, "Save More. Live Better," is now getting its due course. As prescription drug prices skyrocket, Wal-Mart's new $4 Prescription Program is a welcomed relief; as gas prices and food prices soar, Wal-Mart's lower price points have helped the company increase sales 3.9% last month when other similar retailers are seeing a decline in growth. Wal-Mart seems to have seized upon the opportunity of consumers fraught over how to stretch their dollar with common-sense strategies to get them in the door and drive sales.

Coming to the rescue of so many struggling Americans when their finances are otherwise dismal? Great. But improving upon brand value at the same time? Priceless.