For most stores, a customer’s need to shop takes precedence over weather when determining a store closure. Wednesday’s snow storm caused hazardous driving conditions, but this did not deter stores such as Wal-Mart and Target from leaving their doors open.

“We try to stay open as long as possible because there are essentials in our store that people need at all times,” said Kristin Perez, executive team lead of Target.

“We always try to cater towards the customers needs regardless of the weather.”

Perez has worked at Target for five years and has never experienced a store closure. She said business was slow during the morning, but picked up considerably in the afternoon. Wal-Mart experienced the same situation.

“Business was cut back considerably, but that doesn’t make us shut the doors,” said Monte Hays, co-manager of Wal-Mart. “We didn’t make as much money due to a lack of customers, but our losses would have been much greater if we closed for the day.”

Pagliai’s Pizza closed early, but employee Alex Rodriguez said it wasn’t due to the weather.

“Whether or not we close at all depends on the number of customers we’re getting,” Rodriguez said. “If we’re not getting a lot of customers, then we close early, even if the weather is good.”

Many employees of Wal-Mart and Target live within the area so their danger of driving was not considered high.

“If team members live outside of the area and it is seen that their safety could be at risk, then we allow them to stay home,” Perez said.

According to both Wal-Mart and Target representatives, loss of power or a natural disaster are generally the only reasons why they would close.