Wal-Mart looks to boost home with Canopy

BENTONVILLE, Ark. Wal-Mart today introduced its new home furnishings line, Canopy. The company reported that several products from the line are now available in select stores nationwide now and online at http://www.walmart.com/canopy. Wal-Mart said that more products will be added in stores and online in summer and fall of 2008.

According to Wal-Mart's press release, the retailer is targeting the "budget-wise" customer with the Canopy line. As such, the company noted that the home furnishings line, which includes bedding, furniture, bath accessories, dinnerware and decor, will be priced up to 40% below competitors.

"Each item in the Canopy collection has timeless style that's easy to live with, easy to care for and surprisingly easy to afford," said Linda Hefner, evp of home at Wal-Mart. "The new Canopy line strengthens our home brands portfolio and continues our focus on offering the products our customers want at the price they expect from Wal-Mart."

The new Canopy line is part of Wal-Mart's efforts to improve its home department, which include a new line of Better Homes and Gardens products -- a partnership with Meredith Corp. -- for fall 2008 and the retooling of the department's layout.