So....

[lscottpht]

Bella Pictures was sold to Walmart! Wow!

[Roy]

Yep. More Here

[Ahh!]

Think of the supply chain RFID tag opportunities now!

[S-Man]

I'm doubtful they'll market this fact to their potential brides. They might re-brand themselves, but no doubt the marketing machines will be on full steam. The simple fact that they're owned by the same people as wal-mart doesn't mean they'll be associated with them in branding.
Most brides probably won't know anything about this.

However this makes me wonder if Wally-world is expanding their grasp on the market of everything under the sun. Will this drive out the "little guys" of wedding photography, much like the local 'mom & pop' stores were driven out of town when Wal-marts began sprouting everywhere? Will the small photography businesses be forced to work for Wal-Mart to make ends meet, or go under? Time will tell, I suppose.

[Phisch]

I'm with Sam, I doubt they're going to publicize their purchase.

On the other hand, it does show how lucrative it is, yes? This made me actually go and find out what Bella Pictures is. :/

[WarrenG]

Wal Mart actually has nothing to do with the acquisition.

(Bella) was acquired by CPI Corp, an independent contractor which runs the portrait studios within some Wal Mart and Sears stores, as well as Picture Me and Kiddie Kandids studios.

What this is going to give Bella is a "Storefront" presence going forward which is something they have not really had. I would anticipate seeing some local stores popping up in the near future if I had to guess. The brides will LOVE this... though I still see some ways to market around this... so there are some positives.

[ziffle]

A little perspective......
In Taiwan - most brides will go to a store that has the dress, MUA, mens clothing and photography all in one place.

There are still independent wedding shooters.

But the store fronts are really cool. most several stories high - all with dresses in the windows.
These stores have sample albums out in front.

I have a couple of images.
Remember, in the Taiwanese culture - brides wear 3-4 dresses during the celebration.

[amykarp]

and now what does that say about Dennis Reggie ;)