WOODRUFF, S.C. — Walmart received the most votes in an informal Woodruff Times Facebook poll asking readers which grocery store they would most like to see come to Woodruff.
As of Sept. 17, the post had received 1,251 votes through Facebook reactions:
- Walmart: 631 votes, or approximately 50%
- ALDI: 389 votes, or approximately 31%
- Publix: 231 votes, or approximately 18%
The poll also generated more than 570 comments and 99 shares, demonstrating considerable interest in bringing additional grocery choices to the growing Woodruff area.
Readers were instructed to use the “Like” reaction for Walmart, “Love” for ALDI and “Care” for Publix. Because participation was voluntary and conducted through Facebook, the results represent the preferences of respondents and should not be considered a scientific survey of the entire community.
Readers Explain Their Choices
The comments showed that price, product selection, accessibility and location were among readers’ leading concerns.
Supporters of Walmart frequently said they wanted a full-size store—not simply a Neighborhood Market—so residents could purchase groceries and other household items in one location.
ALDI supporters commonly cited lower prices and the potential benefit for families and residents living on fixed incomes. One reader also raised an accessibility concern, noting the importance of electric shopping carts for customers with mobility limitations.
Publix supporters highlighted the company’s product selection, buy-one-get-one promotions and availability of specialty foods, including gluten-free products. Several commenters said they currently drive to Greenville or other nearby communities to shop at Publix.
Not everyone limited their preference to the three choices offered. Readers also mentioned Trader Joe’s, Lowe’s Foods, Costco and Ingles. Others said Woodruff needs additional services beyond groceries, including a hardware or home-improvement store and 24-hour urgent care.
Suggested locations included the former Bi-Lo property and sites along Highway 101, where residential development continues. Those suggestions came from readers and do not represent confirmed plans by any retailer or property owner.
What Happens Next?
The Woodruff Times conducted the poll to gather community feedback that could be shared with prospective grocers and local economic-development representatives. The results do not indicate that Walmart, ALDI or Publix has committed to opening a Woodruff location.
The newspaper plans to compile the results and comments into a community-interest summary showing the level of demand for another grocery option.
Residents may continue sharing their opinions on the original Facebook poll.
