Small businesses get a shot at Walmart’s shelves

Walmart has announced an online video competition called “Get on the Shelf” that gives small businesses the opportunity to get their products sold on the retailer’s website and shelves, and at least one Baton Rouge business has begun asking people for their vote. Suckers grill, market and smokehouse, located in the College Creek shopping center at 3151 College Dr., is hoping to introduce its all-purpose meat rub and three barbecue sauces to consumers nationwide via the contest. Fans can begin voting for Suckers or any other business’s products online here beginning March 7. Idea Development, a local firm specializing in advertising, marketing and design services, filmed and edited the video for Suckers. The first round of voting closes April 3, following which the top 10 entries will move on to round two. Voting in round two closes April 24, with the top three products to be sold on Walmart’s website. The entry with the most votes will receive the grand prize: having their product sold on Walmart’s website and store shelves around the country, plus some marketing support. Other businesses that want to enter the competition can do so at the Get on the Shelf website. Entries must be in by Wednesday.