455211 - Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters
Introduction
When it comes to large-scale retail, NAICS code 455211 plays a crucial role in identifying businesses that dominate the market with vast inventories and competitive prices. Known as Warehouse Clubs and Supercenters, this industry classification encompasses retail giants that combine grocery and general merchandise under one roof. Understanding this code is vital for businesses, contractors, and government agencies navigating the retail trade sector.
What is NAICS Code 455211?
NAICS code 455211 defines establishments classified as warehouse clubs and supercenters. These are large retail stores that integrate a supermarket (grocery items) with a general merchandise store offering a wide variety of products. What sets these businesses apart is their ability to provide goods in bulk quantities at discounted prices, appealing to both consumers and small business owners.
Description Highlights:
- Operate large retail outlets combining supermarket and general merchandise.
- Offer diverse merchandise such as groceries, clothing, electronics, and household goods.
- Often sell products in bulk to customers seeking cost savings.
Sector and Business Activities
NAICS 455211 belongs to the Retail Trade sector, reflecting its role in consumer sales and distribution. Businesses within this industry typically engage in:
- Operating physical supercenters and warehouse clubs.
- Running Internet supercenter and warehouse club sites for online sales.
- Selling both food and general merchandise under a single roof.
- Providing discounts through bulk sales models.
Typical Business Types
- Warehouse Clubs: Large-volume retailers such as Costco Wholesale and Sam’s Club.
- Supercenters/Superstores: Major retailers like Walmart Supercenter that blend groceries and general merchandise efficiently.
- Online Retail: Internet-based platforms representing warehouse clubs or supercenter counterparts.
Size Standard for NAICS 455211
For federal contracting and eligibility purposes, the small business size standard for NAICS code 455211 is:
- $47 million dollars in average annual receipts.
This threshold determines whether a business qualifies as a small business under this NAICS code, impacting contract opportunities and compliance.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 455211
| Business Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Costco Wholesale | Membership warehouse clubs offering bulk products. |
| Sam’s Club | Walmart-owned club stores selling groceries & more. |
| Walmart Supercenter | Large stores combining full grocery and general merchandise. |
Detailed NAICS 455211 Code Information
| Code Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Internet supercenter sites | Online platforms representing supercenters |
| Internet warehouse club sites | E-commerce websites for warehouse club merchandise |
| Supercenters | Large stores combining food & general merchandise |
| Superstores (food and general merchandise) | Large-format retailers offering diverse product lines |
| Warehouse clubs (food and general merchandise) | Bulk sale clubs operating physical stores |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What products do businesses under NAICS 455211 typically sell?
They sell a wide range of products including groceries, clothing, electronics, household goods, and more, often in bulk quantities to provide discount pricing.
Is an online business considered under NAICS 455211?
Yes, internet supercenter and warehouse club sites are included under this code.
What is the small business size standard for NAICS 455211?
The size standard is an average annual revenue of $47 million dollars.
Can a supermarket alone be classified under this NAICS code?
No, this code specifically covers establishments combining supermarket and general merchandise in large formats (supercenters or warehouse clubs).
Which major retailers fall under NAICS 455211?
Prominent examples include Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club, and Walmart Supercenter.
Conclusion
NAICS code 455211 defines a vital segment of the retail trade sector focusing on large format stores that combine grocery and general merchandise under one roof. Whether operating physically or online, these warehouse clubs and supercenters have transformed consumer shopping by offering bulk products at discounted prices. Understanding the scope, size standards, and business examples within this classification can help businesses position themselves effectively in the market and capitalize on federal contracting opportunities.
