I just recently read a story in the WSJ about Whole Foods woes. Of course part of the problem is the economic downturn. But WF is increasingly losing market share to the chain groceries who are devoting more space to organics,etc. The article talked abut how WF is giving tours to shoppers in some stores to dilute the perception WF is so pricey. The writer said that the better value items are in the center of the store and the perimeter areas have the expensive items which is obvious I think to anyone shopping there. The writer said WF is very unhappy with its common nickname of Whole Paycheck.

The Wild Oats in Tulsa was so successful that it expanded. After it became WF I heard from one of the employees that WF was planning to build a larger store in South Tulsa. I imagine that is on hold now. But according to that person, the Tulsa store is one of the best performing given its size and location.

This has nothing to do with WF's locations but is interesting. I also read in the WSJ some months ago about how the WF owner would anonymously get on the Wild Oats financial message board before the buyout and badmouth WO.

I lived in Tulsa for years but since I now live in Norman, I would prefer a WF to come here but if OKC I would take that. Actually I want a Trader Joe's in the area but that is even less a possibility.

I would not talk about Tulsa not supporting Saks. It may not carry all the labels that other Saks do but I was told by someone who would know that last Christmas season it was a top Saks performer in sales. And if it were not supported then it would not have lasted this long.