Salvation Army programs

This year, the Walmart Foundation also made a $1 million donation to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign. The donation will be split among the four Salvation Army Territories and support feeding programs, including meal programs for youths. Last year, The Salvation Army served nearly 58 million meals to children and adults in need.

Notably, 81 percent of Salvation Army programs saw an increase in need among families with children due to the recession in 2011, according to “Growing Up in a Downturn,” a Salvation Army report from earlier this year. The report also found that 56 percent of Salvation Army youth programs were operating at or beyond capacity, which includes feeding, education, athletic, artistic and religious programs. As a result of the recession’s lingering impact, The Salvation Army expects the need to continue this Christmas season.
“For the past several years, there has been a growing need in America, and social service organizations like The Salvation Army have seen this demand first hand,” said Major George Hood, National Community Relations and Development Secretary for The Salvation Army. “The ‘Fill the Truck’ event with Walmart will help The Salvation Army meet that need this Christmas, and provide something special to children in need.”

From its humble origin as a fundraiser started by a Salvation Army captain in San Francisco in 1891, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown into one of the most recognizable and important charitable campaigns in the United States. As part of the campaign, more than 25,000 Salvation Army workers and volunteers spread throughout the country to ring bells daily and solicit spare change donations to the iconic red kettles from holiday shoppers. In 2011, the campaign raised more than $147.6 million nationwide, a new record supported by the public’s nickels, dimes, quarters, dollars, credit cards (and the occasional diamond ring or gold tooth) all collected and used to help people in the communities where they were raised. Last year, the funds helped The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, toys and other assistance to 30 million Americans in need.

Walmart & The Salvation Army Partner For 122nd Annual Red Kettle Campaign

Red Kettle Donations and “Fill the Truck” Toy Drives to Help Provide a Cheerful Christmas to Children Nationwide 

      Alexandria, VA (November 28, 2012) – Walmart and The Salvation Army announced today that they are partnering this holiday season for the 122nd Annual Red Kettle Campaign. Walmart and Sam’s Club stores across the country will host The Salvation Army’s iconic red kettles and bell ringers again this holiday season between Friday, November 23rd and Monday, December 24th. Last year, Walmart and Sam’s Club helped The Salvation Army raise more than $46 million—nearly one-third of all money raised. All donations made to the red kettles will remain in the local communities in which they were collected, and help The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, shelter, financial assistance and other services to 30 million people a year. In addition, on Saturday, December 8, more than 2,500 Walmart stores will participate in “Fill the Truck” toy drives to help provide new toys and coats to children in need on Christmas.
      “As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the holidays this year, it’s important for us to remember our neighbors in need,” said Sylvia Mathews Burwell, president of the Walmart Foundation. “By working with The Salvation Army and our generous shoppers, we hope to be able to provide families nationwide with basic need items like food, clothing and shelter, as well as bring more smiles to thousands of children on Christmas day.”

     “Fill the Truck” events will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until 5:00 p.m. local time on Saturday, December 8 at select Walmart stores. The events are open to the general public who would like to donate new toys and coats to children who take part in Salvation Army programs year round. Upon arrival, shoppers will receive a list of suggested gifts to add to the truck or collection bin at the stores. Once the donation receptacles are full, The Salvation Army will bring the donations to their local units and distribute the gifts throughout the Christmas season as part of their support to local families in need. Collections are expected to provide gifts to more than 10,000 children nationwide. 

Walmart Ready to Reveal New Store to Irvine Shoppers

New store provides 300 jobs, plus savings on wide variety of merchandise

IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 28, 2012 – Residents of Irvine are invited to the new Walmart store, which opens Wednesday, Nov. 28. The grand-opening ceremony is scheduled for 7:30 a.m., and the store will open to the public immediately following the ribbon cutting. Conveniently located at 71 Technology Drive, the new store brings approximately 300 new jobs to the area and opportunities for savings for customers. It will be open from 6 a.m. to midnight seven days a week.

Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey Reveals That Kids Will Do Almost Anything for Their Holiday Toys…Except Eat Spinach

     BENTONVILLE,  (Nov. 27, 2012) – Kids are willing to do almost anything to get the toys they want for Christmas according to Walmart’s Talking Holiday Toys Survey, which found that 68 percent of kids said they would clean their rooms daily for a year, while 84 percent would work hard and give up playtime.
      But every child has limits; only 23 percent of kids would eat spinach for a year to get their holiday toys. The Walmart-commissioned survey also found that mom and dad favor educational toys and are focused on price. “The survey reflects what we are seeing in our stores.
     Parents are intent on fulfilling their kids’ holiday toy wish lists and at the same time, are looking for the most affordable options,” said Laura Phillips, senior vice president of toys, seasonal and celebrations, Walmart U.S. “As the largest seller of toys in the U.S. we have a unique ability to leverage our size and scale in a way that meets those needs and helps parents deliver a Christmas to remember.”

Walmart Statement on Fire at Bangladesh Garment Factory

        Our thoughts are with the families of the victims of this tragedy. The Tazreen factory was no longer authorized to produce merchandise for Walmart.

        A supplier subcontracted work to this factory without authorization and in direct violation of our policies.  Today, we have terminated the relationship with that supplier.  The fact that this occurred is extremely troubling to us, and we will continue to work across the apparel industry to improve fire safety education and training in Bangladesh. 

Walmart employs 2.2 million associates

         Walmart employs 2.2 million associates around the world -- 1.4 million in the U.S. alone. in 2011, nearly 180,000 hourly associates received promotions, and 53% of those were women.

        In the U.S., the average, full-time hourly wage is $12.57.

Walmart is making a difference in a big way

        Walmart provides satisfying careers for 2.2 million associates around the world. And we're working to make a difference on the big issues that matter to us all. Issues like preserving the environment, fighting hunger, empowering women and providing access to healthier, affordable food.

     Visit Global Responsibility to learn more about how Walmart is driving meaningful change in a way that no other company can.

NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo Thanks Walmart for Hurricane Sandy Response

At a press conference, Andrew Cuomo thanks Walmart for providing quick support and 6 tractor trailers of supplies to NYC.

We were honored to partner with the governor and other local leaders to help Sandy victims.

Walmart Changes Fourth Quarter Dividend Payment Date

         Nov. 19, 2012 – The Board of Directors of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) approved a change in the payment date of the company’s regular quarterly shareholder dividend of $0.3975 per share to Dec. 27, 2012.  This fourth quarter instalment of the company’s current annual dividend rate of $1.59 was previously scheduled to be paid on Jan. 2, 2013.  The record date associated with this dividend payment remains unchanged at Dec. 7, 2012.
        The Board of Directors approved on March 1, 2012, an annual dividend of $1.59 per share, which was approximately a 9 percent increase from the $1.46 per share paid during the previous fiscal year.

Walmart Announces its Biggest Cyber Monday Ever With Up to $1,000* Savings Online on Popular Gifts & More

        Walmart announces its biggest Cyber Monday event ever with up to $1,000 savings on popular gifts online, including electronics, toys, video games and more. Kicking off Cyber Week earlier this year on Saturday, November 24 and lasting through Sunday, December 2, specials will be available online and refreshed EVERY DAY on Walmart.com.

        Even more, customers can get free shipping to home on over 100,000 items that customers want most, including nearly all electronics and toys, and can also choose free in-store pickup. And, for the first time, holiday shoppers can order gifts online and use Pay with Cash, including all Black Friday and Cyber Week online-only specials.

Walmart Introduces Goodies Co. to Deliver Delicious to Your Front Door

New Food Subscription Service at Only $7 a Month is Latest Innovation from @WalmartLabs SAN BRUNO, Calif.,
      Walmart (NYSE: WMT) today announced the launch of Goodies Co., a monthly food subscription service for consumers to savor delectable foods and discover new items. For only $7 a month, including tax and shipping, subscribers receive a gift box at their doorstep filled with five to eight hand-picked taster samples ranging from healthy and organic to artisan and ethnic.

       The new Goodies Co. box, created by @WalmartLabs, underscores Walmart’s commitment to e-commerce and its use of social innovations to create new offerings for consumers. Goodies Co. has been in a private beta test for the last few months with over 3,000 users across the United States. Each month, treats are arranged into a thematic selection such as “Flavors around the World,” and “Trick-or-Treat Sweets” for Halloween. November’s Thanksgiving theme is “Easy Entertaining” complete with gourmet foods such as wine biscuits, pumpkin soufflé mix, dark chocolate infused Quinoa bars, and white cheddar popcorn among others. The delectables arrive in a gift box with a colorful information card that describes each food in detail.

Walmart Reaffirms Support for Guard and Reserve Employees

        Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, announced Walmart will sign a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve at 11a.m. on Monday, November 12, 2012. Bill Simon, President and CEO, Walmart U.S., will sign the pledge in a ceremony at the corporate offices in Bentonville, Arkansas.

         Simon served 25 years in the United States Navy and Navy Reserve and will be joined by the Honorable Jessica L. Wright, Acting Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. In addition to the corporate office signing ceremony, Walmart is conducting a national Statement of Support signing initiative at 10 regional locations. The Statement of Support confirms Walmart joins other employers in pledging: We fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).
        Our managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans. We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.

Walmart reports Q3 EPS of $1.08, reaffirms top end of full-year EPS guidance; Company is well positioned for Q4 holidays

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. reported financial results for the quarter ended Oct. 31, 2012.

• Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (Walmart) reported third quarter diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $1.08, within guidance of $1.04 to $1.09. This was an 11.3 percent increase from the $0.97 per share reported for the third quarter last year.
• The company updated its full year earnings guidance, narrowing the range by five cents to $4.88 to $4.93. The top of the range remains unchanged from the guidance provided last quarter, when the company tightened the range and increased it by a penny.
• Net sales were $113.2 billion, a 3.4 percent increase over last year. Currency exchange rate fluctuations negatively impacted net sales by approximately $1.7 billion. Without the currency impact¹, net sales would have been $114.9 billion, a 4.9 percent increase.
• Walmart U.S. comparable (“comp”) store sales increased 1.5 percent in the 13-week period ended Oct. 26, 2012.
• Sam's Club comp sales, without fuel, increased 2.7 percent for the same 13-week period.
• Walmart International grew net sales 2.4 percent to $33.2 billion; on a constant currency¹ basis, net sales would have increased 7.6 percent to $34.8 billion.
• The company leveraged operating expenses for the quarter.
• Consolidated operating income was $6.1 billion, up 4.0 percent from last year, and grew faster than sales.
• Walmart generated free cash flow¹ of $7.0 billion for the nine months ended Oct. 31, 2012.
• Return on investment¹ (ROI) for the trailing 12 months ended Oct. 31, 2012 was 18.0 percent.
• Year to date, the company returned $8.7 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.

Sam’s Club Puts the Cheer into Black Friday Savings

BENTONVILLE, ARK., Nov. 8, 2012 – Shoppers on the hunt for a more cheerful Black Friday savings experience should look no further than Sam’s Club, who today announced extraordinary savings atop complimentary breakfast to all Sam’s Club members on Nov. 23. When the doors open at 7 a.m., holiday cheer starts at Sam’s Club with members-only savings on exclusive one-day only items and top brands, plus  free Starbucks Holiday Blend Coffee and Artisan Fresh pastries, baked fresh at Sam’s Club.†
Making Black Friday Cheery
According to a recent Sam’s Club 2012 Study on Holiday Cheer one in ten shoppers believe early morning shopping is in need of more holiday cheer. The study found that to make the annual Black Friday shopping trip cheerier, 36 percent of American consumers who shop on Black Friday want to receive free stuff, 24 percent want smaller crowds, 20 percent would like shorter lines, 12 percent want baked pastries and eight percent want free coffee.
“Our members pay a fee to shop in our clubs, so they expect a sensible, hassle-free holiday shopping experience alongside an exciting assortment of gifts at great prices; at Sam’s Club, they’ll find free breakfast, hot coffee and award-winning member service,” said Todd Harbaugh, Executive Vice President of Operations at Sam’s Club. “The Black Friday shopping experience is our annual ‘thank you’ to members, providing access to extraordinary prices, quality brands our members trust like Samsung, Dyson, and Vizio, and the assortment of gifts to bring cheer to all of our members’ family and friends.”

Walmart “Guarantees” Customers its Best Black Friday Ever

Retailer Unveils Black Friday Circular and Event Times; Guarantees Top Wishlist Items

        BENTONVILLE, Ark., Nov. 08, 2012 – Walmart unveils its best Black Friday assortment and pricing ever offered. Revealed to customers on Walmart.com, its Facebook wall and mobile app, the retailer’s Black Friday circular showcases hundreds of brand name electronics, toys, apparel, sporting goods and items for the home – backed by Walmart’s ad match guarantee – available during three events starting at 8 p.m. on November 22.

       In addition to offering amazing low prices on the season’s top gifts, Walmart is taking the historic step to ensure wishlist items like the Apple iPad^®2 are available for customers during a special one-hour event on Thanksgiving.

       “We know it’s frustrating for customers to shop on Black Friday and not get the items they want,” said Duncan Mac Naughton, chief merchandising and marketing officer, Walmart U.S.  “This year, for the first time ever, customers that shop during Walmart’s one-hour event will be guaranteed to have three of the most popular items under their tree at a great low price.”

Walmart Foundation Awards Swords to Plowshares $750,000 to Provide Job Training and Employment Support to Veterans

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 8, 2012 – The Walmart Foundation recently awarded Swords to Plowshares, a San Francisco-based veteran service agency, a statewide grant to improve and increase job training programs for California veterans. The grant will provide assistance to 700 veterans in underserved areas of California.

“Veterans, especially those who recently served in Iraq and Afghanistan, need support in finding meaningful job opportunities,” said Michael Blecker, Executive Director of Swords to Plowshares. “This grant will have a significant impact on our ability to provide job training and place more veterans in jobs throughout California.
The grant from Walmart Foundation will also allow Swords to Plowshares to re-grant job training dollars to veteran service providers throughout California, particularly in communities with the highest number of unemployed veterans. Veterans will receive assistance with job training programs in high-growth industries, pre-employment assistance and placement with local employers.  The Walmart grant will greatly complement each organization’s existing array of services for job seeking veterans.
“As one of the nation’s largest private employers of veterans and those on active duty, we share Sword to Plowshare’s vision of a country where every veteran has a chance to succeed economically and support his or her family,” said retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Gary Profit, senior director of military programs at Walmart. “Walmart has committed $20 million to making that vision a reality by supporting organizations and programs that provide job and skills training to our veterans. These young men and women stood up for us, and now it’s our turn to stand up for them.”
“We know firsthand that far too many veterans have a difficult time transitioning the skills they learned in the military to the civilian workforce,” said Blecker.  “This grant is key to providing the support veterans need amidst a challenged economy and competitive workforce.”

Walmart Responds to Hurricane Sandy

Nov. 8, 2012

We're deeply concerned by the devastation we've seen and our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been injured or lost family members in this horrible storm.

Walmart is committed to being a community partner in recovery efforts. We are pledging up to $1.5 million to help with relief efforts in the hardest hit areas to ensure the essential needs of residents are being met.

World’s Largest Grill on Tour to Support Disaster Relief

Walmart and Johnsonville Team Up to Provide Hot Brats to Hurricane Sandy Survivors   

When the power's out and you haven't had a hot meal in a while, a free brat off the grill can hit the spot. That’s why Walmart is teaming up with our supplier, Johnsonville, to bring the World’s Largest Grill to several communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy. 

The Johnsonville Big Taste Grill will be making several stops at area Walmart locations to provide hot meals for those affected by or responding to Hurricane Sandy. The public is invited to come out for FREE Brats and Italian Sausages hot off the grill. The 65 foot long grill can cook more than 750 brats at a time – approximately 2,500 per hour. Walmart associates will be helping the Johnsonville Team by passing out free soft drinks.

Walmart Responds to Hurricane Sandy

    As the sun has come up, we have begun to see pictures of some of the damage this storm has brought with it. We remain concerned for the communities and for the millions of people that have been affected by Hurricane Sandy.

   At peak, we've had 294 facility closures, which include stores, clubs and distribution centers. Most of those were due to mandatory evacuations, power outages and safety concerns. The number affected continues to fluctuate, and this page is being updated every few hours as the situation changes.

Sam’s Club Set to Celebrate Grand Opening in St. Petersburg

    Nearly170 newly hired Sam’s Club associates and managers will join local residents and officials in welcoming St. Petersburg’s newest Sam’s Club location at a special grand opening ceremony at 7:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 25.
    Located at 1725 34th Street North, the new St. Petersburg Sam’s Club offers members extraordinary savings on quality merchandise, members-only services and benefits. The new Pinellas location will be the 45^th Sam’s Club location in Florida, and the third in the greater St. Petersburg area. Approximately 170 new jobs were created in St. Petersburg with the opening of the new Sam’s Club.

     Sam’s Club associates from the St. Petersburg club will be presenting grants totaling $45,000 to a number of community organizations, including a special $20,000 grant for the Pinellas County School District“Pack-a-Sack” Program.
    "We know a student's ability to learn can be impacted by challenges at home such as food insecurity," said Tari Connell, Managing Officer of School Social Work at Pinellas County Schools. "We are grateful for Sam’s Club support for the Pack-a-Sack program, which provides food for children to take home every Friday. Each step we take to support all the needs of our students is a step toward their success."
“Fighting hunger is an extremely important cause in the eyes and hearts of our associates, and we are humbled to contribute to Pinellas County Schools in a meaningful way,” said Murray.

   The grant presentations will take place during a Preview Night Ceremony Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 3:30 p.m.