The Salt Lake Tribune |
| A new WalMart store in Logan has opened its doors, featuring The Fly Shop, one of three in the chain nationwide. The Fly Shop is stocked with equipment and supplies for fishers and outdoor enthusiasts. The store, located at 1150 S. 100 West, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and employs about 350 people. Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant and a SmartStyle Family Hair Salon. |
| |
| June 17, 2009 |
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
WalMart with Fly Shop opens in Logan
Walmart Store opening nears
Jun. 23--After more than a year of construction, the WalMart Super-center in Locust will open July 15.
Crews have been working tirelessly to stock the store as the weeks begin to wind down for the much anticipated opening.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held April 4, 2008, which was approximately 13 months after Locust City Council approved the construction of the Supercenter.
WRS Realty of Aiken, S.C. was responsible for the undertaking of the project, which included clearing, grading and site construction.
Earlier in June, WRS Reality turned the store over to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., so everything is in place for the store opening.
A hiring drive took place in late April and May at the Stanly Community College Crutchfield Education Center.
Between 325 openings at the Locust location were filled and management anticipates filling approximately 40 more positions.
"The response has been outstanding. The manager is really excited," said Chris Neeley, a public relations representative for WalMart.
"This is a great opportunity for the Locust community. The store is in a position to be a stimulus for them."
This city is also excited for the possibilities the new WalMart Supercenter will bring to the city.
"We're excited for a major corporation like WalMart to decide to locate in the city, especially in these difficult times. Not only will they be providing more jobs to the area, but they'll also be providing a low cost shopping option," said James Inman, city administrator.
Crews have been working tirelessly to stock the store as the weeks begin to wind down for the much anticipated opening.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held April 4, 2008, which was approximately 13 months after Locust City Council approved the construction of the Supercenter.
WRS Realty of Aiken, S.C. was responsible for the undertaking of the project, which included clearing, grading and site construction.
Earlier in June, WRS Reality turned the store over to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., so everything is in place for the store opening.
A hiring drive took place in late April and May at the Stanly Community College Crutchfield Education Center.
Between 325 openings at the Locust location were filled and management anticipates filling approximately 40 more positions.
"The response has been outstanding. The manager is really excited," said Chris Neeley, a public relations representative for WalMart.
"This is a great opportunity for the Locust community. The store is in a position to be a stimulus for them."
This city is also excited for the possibilities the new WalMart Supercenter will bring to the city.
"We're excited for a major corporation like WalMart to decide to locate in the city, especially in these difficult times. Not only will they be providing more jobs to the area, but they'll also be providing a low cost shopping option," said James Inman, city administrator.
WalMart will remodel prior to its expansion
CHICO While it's still planning to expand its Chico store into a super-center, WalMart is moving ahead with a remodeling that basically sets the stage.
Begun last month, the remodeling doesn't change the store's exterior, but creates a new interior, according to the retailer.
New shelving, new colors and new flooring are part of the remake, that the city values at $865,577.
"We're putting in low-profile shelving, bright paint scheme and easy to read signs," said WalMart corporate affairs director Tiffany Moffat, who said customer feedback helped make the decision. "We're always engaging customers to ensure the stores are clean, open and bright."
The remodeling is expected to be complete by late August. The store is open during the process.
Moffat said the company has hired 75 temporary employees to help during the remodeling, not counting the construction work. It regularly employs about 350.
Angie Stoner, WalMart senior manager public affairs, said the remodeling was planned before the expansion work got started.
"It's a priority for us to update the stores," Stoner said.
Last fall, WalMart announced that it would be remodeling 70 percent of its stores over the next five years. The Chico store opened in 1994.
WalMart's proposal to expand from 125,889 square-feet to 208,358 square-feet plus an 18,000-square-foot garden center will go to the Planning Commission on July 16. The expansion makes way for a grocery component.
After completing a draft EIR, the city pulled the document before a public hearing process got started in March 2008 to revise traffic and circulation information.
In addition, the EIR also addressed the expansion's impact on global climate change, saying there would be a less than significant cumulative impact.
If the retailer gets approval to expand, the construction could take 10 to 12 months.
Begun last month, the remodeling doesn't change the store's exterior, but creates a new interior, according to the retailer.
New shelving, new colors and new flooring are part of the remake, that the city values at $865,577.
"We're putting in low-profile shelving, bright paint scheme and easy to read signs," said WalMart corporate affairs director Tiffany Moffat, who said customer feedback helped make the decision. "We're always engaging customers to ensure the stores are clean, open and bright."
The remodeling is expected to be complete by late August. The store is open during the process.
Moffat said the company has hired 75 temporary employees to help during the remodeling, not counting the construction work. It regularly employs about 350.
Angie Stoner, WalMart senior manager public affairs, said the remodeling was planned before the expansion work got started.
"It's a priority for us to update the stores," Stoner said.
Last fall, WalMart announced that it would be remodeling 70 percent of its stores over the next five years. The Chico store opened in 1994.
WalMart's proposal to expand from 125,889 square-feet to 208,358 square-feet plus an 18,000-square-foot garden center will go to the Planning Commission on July 16. The expansion makes way for a grocery component.
After completing a draft EIR, the city pulled the document before a public hearing process got started in March 2008 to revise traffic and circulation information.
In addition, the EIR also addressed the expansion's impact on global climate change, saying there would be a less than significant cumulative impact.
If the retailer gets approval to expand, the construction could take 10 to 12 months.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Walmart Brazil Mobilizes Suppliers and Announces Sustainability Pact
Minister of Environment, Carlos Minc, takes part in the retailer’s event with 500 companies and NGOs. Amazon, packaging and productive chain are the main themes of the commitments
São Paulo, June 23, 2009 – In the search for more sustainable practices in the whole productive chain in Brazil, today, WalMart gives an important step towards hosting a pioneer event in the Country: the “Sustainability Pact”, gathering over 300 suppliers and 200 NGOs, as well as government authorities, partners and associates. On the occasion, the company enforced with its suppliers a number of commitments in relation to theme such as sustainable development in Amazon, reduction of packaging and development of more sustainable productive chains. “We want to be sustainability leaders in Brazil and we are increasingly committed to seeking solutions that will contribute to the future of the planet. This event shows how in line we are with the whole chain. We know that, in sustainability, the union is essential”, says Héctor Núñez, CEO of WalMart Brazil.
For the construction of such commitments, WalMart gathered, in two precious moments, called “Sustainability Dialogues”, representatives from civil society, government, suppliers and associates. The first “Dialogue” took place in May, in Brasília, and the theme was “Commitment with the Amazon”, gathering representatives from the Ministry of Environment, NGOs such as the Imazon Institute and ISA (Social and Environmental Institute) and from specialists.
The second event, which happened at the beginning of the month, in São Paulo, was about packaging and productive chains, having as lecturers and guests Ethos Institute, CETEA (Packaging Technology Center), and ABRE (Brazilian Packaging Association).
Both Dialogues served as grounds to the final commitments announced by Wal-Mart Brazil. Namely:
PRODUCTIVE CHAINS AND PACKAGING REDUCTION:
1. Responsible Purchases
* Reducing by 70% phosphate in laundry and kitchen detergents until 2013;
* Offering laundry products, at least, 2 x more concentrated until 2012;
* Offering at least one organic product per food category until 2012;
* Stimulating sales of products with sustainability differential;
* Supporting and encouraging the development of closed cycle products;
* WalMart Brazil private label products should lead because of sustainability example.
2. Waste Reduction
* Reducing packaging by 5% until 2013;
* Implement Packaging Scorecard until 2009;
* Reducing consumption of plastic bags by 50% until 2013.
AMAZON
* Timber Pact – Promoting financing, production, use, commercialization and consumption of forest timber and products with sustainable source certification only.
* Soybean Pact – Establish restrictions for financing, production, use, distribution and consumption of soybeans (in natura or processed) sourced in illegal deforestation areas in Amazon.
* Pact for Eradication of Slave Labor – Establish commercial restrictions to companies and/or people identified in their production chain that use degrading work conditions associated to practices that characterize slavery.
* Livestock Pact – Not to take part of financing, use, distribution, commercialization and consumption of livestock product with having any illegality detected in its chain, above all deforestation and slave-like labor. Require from beef suppliers copies of Animal Transit Forms (GTA) attached to Invoices and independent audit plan and international acknowledgement that ensure that products marketed by WalMart do not derive from devastation areas in the Amazon.
Greenpeace Report - WalMart adjourned the acquisition from farms involved in the deforestation of Amazon, pursuant to report released by the Greenpeace and information provided by the Public Prosecutor in the State of Pará. The action is aimed at repudiating the practices accused and was implemented in the supermarket sphere, by means of the Brazilian Supermarket Association (ABRAS). For WalMart, it is inacceptable that suppliers use illegal practices in their productive processes or inputs from irregular productive chains.The decision is valid to all of its formats in the country: hypermarkets BIG, Hiper Bompreço and WalMart Supercenter, supermarkets Nacional, Mercadorama and Bompreço, wholesale business Maxxi, membership club SAM'S CLUB and neighborhood supermarket Todo Dia. The position includes notifying meat packing plants, suspending purchases from the farms accused by the Public Prosecutor in the State of Pará and require from meat packing plants the Guias de Trânsito Animal [Animal Transit Forms] attached to Invoices or electronic similar information. As additional measure, the implementation of an independent audit plan and international acknowledgement that ensure that the products they market do not derive from devastation areas in the Amazon.
Carrier Bags Campaign – During the “Sustainability Pact Wal-Mart Brazil”, the Minister of Environment, Carlos Minc, one of the lecturers in the event, launched a national campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags, in partnership with Wal-Mart. With the name “Saco é um Saco” [Bags are a ‘Pain’], the purpose to bring awareness to population on the conscious use of plastic bags.
The support of WalMart Brazil to the government campaign is in line with the company’s target to reduce by 50% the use of plastic carrier bags until 2013. In order to achieve such goal, the company launched, at the end last year, an unprecedented program in Brazilian retail market, which gives credit to customers for bags they do not use. The amount the supermarket would pay per bag (R$0.03) is returned as credit in the ticket of customers who do not use it and choose any reusable version.
In force in all stores in the Northeast and South (more than 260 units), the program has already removed from the environment millions of bags and granted over R$ 100 thousand in discounts to customers. Until the end of the year, the program will have national coverage with the inclusion of the Southeast region.
Moreover, the retailer incentives the use of reusable bags, offering one of the cheapest models in the market (R$2.50). Made of raw cotton and with capacity to carry 35 kg, the bag starts to gradually become part of consumers’ daily lives. Since launching, in May 2008, more than 2 million WalMart bags are already circulating in the whole Country.
Sustainability – With three major work focus – energy/constructions, residues and products – sustainability is part of WalMart Brazil business strategy. Apart from actions to reduce bags, the company is implementing a zero impact program in its stores and its global target is to generate zero residue in its operation worldwide. In relation energy, WalMart inaugurated its first e coefficient store in December, in Rio de Janeiro and, since then, it has adopted this model as standard to all their hypermarkets. The second store was launched in São Paulo in April this year. The Eco stores, as they are called, were conceived to reduce use of power by 40% and water by 25%. More than 60 sustainable initiative in have been implemented in each one of them, which range from use of rain water to solar energy, including use of recycled material in the entire visual communication, wall with Styrofoam plates and natural lightening. Even uniforms in these stores – as well as in all stores launched since last year – are more sustainable and made, in part from PET bottle fiber.
In relation to products found in the gondolas of the 348 Wal-Mart Brazil stores, many already bring changes related to sustainability. In partnership with large suppliers, the retailer offers differentiated products to its customers. That is the case of Ariel Eco max (Procter & Gamble) powder soap, which requires less water washing of clothes; in the Sustainable Banco Imobiliário game (Monopoly – by Estrela), of underwear made from bamboo fiber (Zorba) and toilet paper Neve Naturali (Kimberly Clark), which uses papers trims in the manufacturing process, among other products.
In the private label line, items had packaging reduced and change of material to reduce environmental impact. Products such as blankets 100% made from PET bottle fiber (about 150 bottles for each blanket), Eco line telephone Ibratele, made from old computers shells (electronic garbage) and Top Max Soap (made from cooking oil collected in recycling stations of Maxxi Atacado Stores in the South), show that it is possible to reuse material that would be wasted in the environment.
Social – Also committed to the social wing of sustainability, WalMart Brazil supports and collaborates towards the improvement of life quality in the communities where it operates. In Recife, for instance, it has adopted an entire neighborhood with the commitment to increase the Human Development Index (HDI) in the region. The “Bombando Cidadania” project, in the neighborhood of Bomba do Hemetério, is one of the over 40 projects supported by the WalMart Institute in Brazil. All together, 4 thousand people benefit from them.
The Loja da Comunidade, a pioneer supermarket model with services to citizens in general, has been operating for 7 months with 3 units in the Northeast region. With services such as issuance of documents, professional tutoring, Internet café, medical assistance, among others, the format has already shown results and so far has helped nearly 70,000 people. WalMart expects to take the Loja da Comunidade to other regions within the country, prioritizing neighborhoods in need.
China – Worldwide, WalMart has incorporated sustainability to its business, with global environment impact reduction targets. Locally, each of the 15 countries in the company’s international area has specific targets, according to the needs of each society. In October last year, WalMart gathered over 1,000 suppliers in China, besides government representatives, to delineate joint targets, especially connected to social problems in that country. Among the agreements signed, there are the compulsory environment compliance (legal), improvement of energy efficiency and use of natural resources, increase of quality standards and more transparency regarding information on the factories.
São Paulo, June 23, 2009 – In the search for more sustainable practices in the whole productive chain in Brazil, today, WalMart gives an important step towards hosting a pioneer event in the Country: the “Sustainability Pact”, gathering over 300 suppliers and 200 NGOs, as well as government authorities, partners and associates. On the occasion, the company enforced with its suppliers a number of commitments in relation to theme such as sustainable development in Amazon, reduction of packaging and development of more sustainable productive chains. “We want to be sustainability leaders in Brazil and we are increasingly committed to seeking solutions that will contribute to the future of the planet. This event shows how in line we are with the whole chain. We know that, in sustainability, the union is essential”, says Héctor Núñez, CEO of WalMart Brazil.
For the construction of such commitments, WalMart gathered, in two precious moments, called “Sustainability Dialogues”, representatives from civil society, government, suppliers and associates. The first “Dialogue” took place in May, in Brasília, and the theme was “Commitment with the Amazon”, gathering representatives from the Ministry of Environment, NGOs such as the Imazon Institute and ISA (Social and Environmental Institute) and from specialists.
The second event, which happened at the beginning of the month, in São Paulo, was about packaging and productive chains, having as lecturers and guests Ethos Institute, CETEA (Packaging Technology Center), and ABRE (Brazilian Packaging Association).
Both Dialogues served as grounds to the final commitments announced by Wal-Mart Brazil. Namely:
PRODUCTIVE CHAINS AND PACKAGING REDUCTION:
1. Responsible Purchases
* Reducing by 70% phosphate in laundry and kitchen detergents until 2013;
* Offering laundry products, at least, 2 x more concentrated until 2012;
* Offering at least one organic product per food category until 2012;
* Stimulating sales of products with sustainability differential;
* Supporting and encouraging the development of closed cycle products;
* WalMart Brazil private label products should lead because of sustainability example.
2. Waste Reduction
* Reducing packaging by 5% until 2013;
* Implement Packaging Scorecard until 2009;
* Reducing consumption of plastic bags by 50% until 2013.
AMAZON
* Timber Pact – Promoting financing, production, use, commercialization and consumption of forest timber and products with sustainable source certification only.
* Soybean Pact – Establish restrictions for financing, production, use, distribution and consumption of soybeans (in natura or processed) sourced in illegal deforestation areas in Amazon.
* Pact for Eradication of Slave Labor – Establish commercial restrictions to companies and/or people identified in their production chain that use degrading work conditions associated to practices that characterize slavery.
* Livestock Pact – Not to take part of financing, use, distribution, commercialization and consumption of livestock product with having any illegality detected in its chain, above all deforestation and slave-like labor. Require from beef suppliers copies of Animal Transit Forms (GTA) attached to Invoices and independent audit plan and international acknowledgement that ensure that products marketed by WalMart do not derive from devastation areas in the Amazon.
Greenpeace Report - WalMart adjourned the acquisition from farms involved in the deforestation of Amazon, pursuant to report released by the Greenpeace and information provided by the Public Prosecutor in the State of Pará. The action is aimed at repudiating the practices accused and was implemented in the supermarket sphere, by means of the Brazilian Supermarket Association (ABRAS). For WalMart, it is inacceptable that suppliers use illegal practices in their productive processes or inputs from irregular productive chains.The decision is valid to all of its formats in the country: hypermarkets BIG, Hiper Bompreço and WalMart Supercenter, supermarkets Nacional, Mercadorama and Bompreço, wholesale business Maxxi, membership club SAM'S CLUB and neighborhood supermarket Todo Dia. The position includes notifying meat packing plants, suspending purchases from the farms accused by the Public Prosecutor in the State of Pará and require from meat packing plants the Guias de Trânsito Animal [Animal Transit Forms] attached to Invoices or electronic similar information. As additional measure, the implementation of an independent audit plan and international acknowledgement that ensure that the products they market do not derive from devastation areas in the Amazon.
Carrier Bags Campaign – During the “Sustainability Pact Wal-Mart Brazil”, the Minister of Environment, Carlos Minc, one of the lecturers in the event, launched a national campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags, in partnership with Wal-Mart. With the name “Saco é um Saco” [Bags are a ‘Pain’], the purpose to bring awareness to population on the conscious use of plastic bags.
The support of WalMart Brazil to the government campaign is in line with the company’s target to reduce by 50% the use of plastic carrier bags until 2013. In order to achieve such goal, the company launched, at the end last year, an unprecedented program in Brazilian retail market, which gives credit to customers for bags they do not use. The amount the supermarket would pay per bag (R$0.03) is returned as credit in the ticket of customers who do not use it and choose any reusable version.
In force in all stores in the Northeast and South (more than 260 units), the program has already removed from the environment millions of bags and granted over R$ 100 thousand in discounts to customers. Until the end of the year, the program will have national coverage with the inclusion of the Southeast region.
Moreover, the retailer incentives the use of reusable bags, offering one of the cheapest models in the market (R$2.50). Made of raw cotton and with capacity to carry 35 kg, the bag starts to gradually become part of consumers’ daily lives. Since launching, in May 2008, more than 2 million WalMart bags are already circulating in the whole Country.
Sustainability – With three major work focus – energy/constructions, residues and products – sustainability is part of WalMart Brazil business strategy. Apart from actions to reduce bags, the company is implementing a zero impact program in its stores and its global target is to generate zero residue in its operation worldwide. In relation energy, WalMart inaugurated its first e coefficient store in December, in Rio de Janeiro and, since then, it has adopted this model as standard to all their hypermarkets. The second store was launched in São Paulo in April this year. The Eco stores, as they are called, were conceived to reduce use of power by 40% and water by 25%. More than 60 sustainable initiative in have been implemented in each one of them, which range from use of rain water to solar energy, including use of recycled material in the entire visual communication, wall with Styrofoam plates and natural lightening. Even uniforms in these stores – as well as in all stores launched since last year – are more sustainable and made, in part from PET bottle fiber.
In relation to products found in the gondolas of the 348 Wal-Mart Brazil stores, many already bring changes related to sustainability. In partnership with large suppliers, the retailer offers differentiated products to its customers. That is the case of Ariel Eco max (Procter & Gamble) powder soap, which requires less water washing of clothes; in the Sustainable Banco Imobiliário game (Monopoly – by Estrela), of underwear made from bamboo fiber (Zorba) and toilet paper Neve Naturali (Kimberly Clark), which uses papers trims in the manufacturing process, among other products.
In the private label line, items had packaging reduced and change of material to reduce environmental impact. Products such as blankets 100% made from PET bottle fiber (about 150 bottles for each blanket), Eco line telephone Ibratele, made from old computers shells (electronic garbage) and Top Max Soap (made from cooking oil collected in recycling stations of Maxxi Atacado Stores in the South), show that it is possible to reuse material that would be wasted in the environment.
Social – Also committed to the social wing of sustainability, WalMart Brazil supports and collaborates towards the improvement of life quality in the communities where it operates. In Recife, for instance, it has adopted an entire neighborhood with the commitment to increase the Human Development Index (HDI) in the region. The “Bombando Cidadania” project, in the neighborhood of Bomba do Hemetério, is one of the over 40 projects supported by the WalMart Institute in Brazil. All together, 4 thousand people benefit from them.
The Loja da Comunidade, a pioneer supermarket model with services to citizens in general, has been operating for 7 months with 3 units in the Northeast region. With services such as issuance of documents, professional tutoring, Internet café, medical assistance, among others, the format has already shown results and so far has helped nearly 70,000 people. WalMart expects to take the Loja da Comunidade to other regions within the country, prioritizing neighborhoods in need.
China – Worldwide, WalMart has incorporated sustainability to its business, with global environment impact reduction targets. Locally, each of the 15 countries in the company’s international area has specific targets, according to the needs of each society. In October last year, WalMart gathered over 1,000 suppliers in China, besides government representatives, to delineate joint targets, especially connected to social problems in that country. Among the agreements signed, there are the compulsory environment compliance (legal), improvement of energy efficiency and use of natural resources, increase of quality standards and more transparency regarding information on the factories.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Chicago (IL), Long Beach (CA), Milwaukee (WI), San Francisco (CA), St. Louis (MO) and Providence (RI) honored by Wal-Mart Foundation for Leadership in
U.S. Conference of Mayors Announces 2009 Green Jobs Training Initiative Grant Winners
Providence, RI— Mayors Richard Daley of Chicago (IL), Bob Foster of Long Beach (CA), Tom Barrett of Milwaukee (WI), Gavin News om of San Francisco (CA), Francis Slay of St. Louis (MO) and David Cicilline of Providence (RI) were honored at the 77th Annual Conference of Mayors meeting for their leadership in green jobs training. The U.S. Conference of Mayors selected non-profit organizations in their cities to receive grants from the WalMart Foundation to support and expand training programs for green jobs.
“Energy, climate protection and green jobs have been top priorities in our work with mayors, Congress and the Administration, specifically our efforts to enact a new energy block grant program and the Green Jobs Act,” said Tom Cochran, Executive Director and CEO of The U.S. Conference of Mayors. “The WalMart Foundation’s generous support of our Green Jobs Training Initiative enables us to continue this important work in building a green workforce in cities.”
Ray Bracy, Senior Vice President of U.S. Government Relations & Public Affairs of WalMart Stores, Inc., presented the awards.
“The U.S. Conference of Mayors, through its Green Jobs Taskforce, is providing leadership, advocacy, best practices and technical assistance to mayors and cities across the country to ensure that we, as a nation, are poised to successfully build the green economy,” said Bracy. “WalMart is pleased to partner with The U.S. Conference of Mayors’ in their efforts to lay an important foundation for identifying the strategies that will help to move the needle for the creation of green jobs.”
Wal-Mart is a valued member of the Mayors Climate Protection Council, established to support The U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Center. The WalMart Foundation is committed to creating opportunities to help people live better and has funded a number of environmentally-friendly initiatives since the company created three global environmental goals in 2005: to run on 100 percent renewable energy, create zero waste, and sell products that promote environmental sustainability.
Grant Winner Program Descriptions:
Chicago, IL (Large-Size City Award for $700,000):
The Greencorps Chicago program trains 40 to 50 disadvantaged Chicago residents for at least nine months in ecorestoration, community gardens, plant distribution, landscaping, electronics and hazardous waste recycling and weatherization projects. The program plans to expand its weatherization training and initiate an arborist training program with the support of the Wal-Mart Foundation Green Jobs Training Initiative Grant. “I was impressed by the partnership between the leadership of the mayor and the support from the community early on. In addition the program exhibited a long-term commitment to being green by capitalizing on programs started in 1994 and an ongoing commitment of the leadership in Chicago to multiple green initiatives,” said one of the judges.
Long Beach, CA (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The Conservation Corps of Long Beach trains at-risk youth (18-25) in a one-year non-residential pre-apprenticeship training program focused on recycling, natural resource conservation, drought-resistant landscaping, and energy and water conservation. The program then continues with job placement assistance two years after successful completion. “I loved their thinking in the long-term in terms of sustainability and the program’s simplicity, which is key to its replicability,” remarked one of the judges.
Milwaukee, WI (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The Milwaukee Conservation Leadership Corps is a seven-week high school summer program providing hands-on education components and employment experience in conservation work projects such as restoration and stewardship of open spaces and urban park care and management. The program also teaches about environmental awareness and citizenship in addition to crucial job training techniques such as communication skills, interpersonal skills, decision-making skills and self-management. The judges said, “We loved the development of formalized standards regarding the curriculum.”
San Francisco, CA (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The SF Works/City Build Academy is a public/private/community and labor partnership. City Build began as a mayoral initiative in 2005 through the Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development. They have now partnered with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s SF Works to train and place economically disadvantaged residents in asbestos abatement and solar installation. The program plans to expand its curriculum to include energy efficiency, weatherization, solar, bio diesel and brownfield remediation training. One judge expressed, “I was impressed by the program’s strong collaboration with community partners, including the education, labor and business community.”
St. Louis, MO (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The St. Patrick Center Project Go! Green program consists of two parts: 1) The City Seeds Urban Farm Project which trains homeless individuals in green horticulture—preparing them for jobs in landscaping, turf maintenance, nurseries, gardening retailers, grounds-keeping, arboriculture, floriculture and other green-care jobs; and 2) The Go! Network, created this year to train professionals who have lost their jobs due to the current economic crisis in biofuels production and related fields. They plan to expand their program to incorporate the National Corn to Ethanol Research Center. “We were impressed by the program’s innovative approach with a particularly challenging population. The program exhibited key efforts to capitalize on reaching difficult populations while initiating a green jobs effort,” the judges said.
Providence, RI (Small-Size City Award for $372,500):
The Apeiron Institute for Sustainable Living collaborates with the Providence Workforce Investment Board (WIB) and the local community college in an energy efficiency training program for Workforce Investment Act-eligible participants to become energy auditors. They plan to expand the program to include an 8th grade green literacy program and a “Whole Home Health, Energy Efficiency, and Green Construction” training program. One judge commented, “We were impressed by the Apeiron Institute’s comprehensive strategy, the program’s capacity for replicability, and the strong leadership of the mayor.”
About Philanthropy at WalMart Stores, Inc.
WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and the WalMart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the WalMart Foundation funds initiatives focused on creating opportunities in education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. From February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009, WalMart – and its domestic and international Foundations – gave more than $423 million in cash and in-kind gifts globally.
Providence, RI— Mayors Richard Daley of Chicago (IL), Bob Foster of Long Beach (CA), Tom Barrett of Milwaukee (WI), Gavin News om of San Francisco (CA), Francis Slay of St. Louis (MO) and David Cicilline of Providence (RI) were honored at the 77th Annual Conference of Mayors meeting for their leadership in green jobs training. The U.S. Conference of Mayors selected non-profit organizations in their cities to receive grants from the WalMart Foundation to support and expand training programs for green jobs.
“Energy, climate protection and green jobs have been top priorities in our work with mayors, Congress and the Administration, specifically our efforts to enact a new energy block grant program and the Green Jobs Act,” said Tom Cochran, Executive Director and CEO of The U.S. Conference of Mayors. “The WalMart Foundation’s generous support of our Green Jobs Training Initiative enables us to continue this important work in building a green workforce in cities.”
Ray Bracy, Senior Vice President of U.S. Government Relations & Public Affairs of WalMart Stores, Inc., presented the awards.
“The U.S. Conference of Mayors, through its Green Jobs Taskforce, is providing leadership, advocacy, best practices and technical assistance to mayors and cities across the country to ensure that we, as a nation, are poised to successfully build the green economy,” said Bracy. “WalMart is pleased to partner with The U.S. Conference of Mayors’ in their efforts to lay an important foundation for identifying the strategies that will help to move the needle for the creation of green jobs.”
Wal-Mart is a valued member of the Mayors Climate Protection Council, established to support The U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Center. The WalMart Foundation is committed to creating opportunities to help people live better and has funded a number of environmentally-friendly initiatives since the company created three global environmental goals in 2005: to run on 100 percent renewable energy, create zero waste, and sell products that promote environmental sustainability.
Grant Winner Program Descriptions:
Chicago, IL (Large-Size City Award for $700,000):
The Greencorps Chicago program trains 40 to 50 disadvantaged Chicago residents for at least nine months in ecorestoration, community gardens, plant distribution, landscaping, electronics and hazardous waste recycling and weatherization projects. The program plans to expand its weatherization training and initiate an arborist training program with the support of the Wal-Mart Foundation Green Jobs Training Initiative Grant. “I was impressed by the partnership between the leadership of the mayor and the support from the community early on. In addition the program exhibited a long-term commitment to being green by capitalizing on programs started in 1994 and an ongoing commitment of the leadership in Chicago to multiple green initiatives,” said one of the judges.
Long Beach, CA (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The Conservation Corps of Long Beach trains at-risk youth (18-25) in a one-year non-residential pre-apprenticeship training program focused on recycling, natural resource conservation, drought-resistant landscaping, and energy and water conservation. The program then continues with job placement assistance two years after successful completion. “I loved their thinking in the long-term in terms of sustainability and the program’s simplicity, which is key to its replicability,” remarked one of the judges.
Milwaukee, WI (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The Milwaukee Conservation Leadership Corps is a seven-week high school summer program providing hands-on education components and employment experience in conservation work projects such as restoration and stewardship of open spaces and urban park care and management. The program also teaches about environmental awareness and citizenship in addition to crucial job training techniques such as communication skills, interpersonal skills, decision-making skills and self-management. The judges said, “We loved the development of formalized standards regarding the curriculum.”
San Francisco, CA (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The SF Works/City Build Academy is a public/private/community and labor partnership. City Build began as a mayoral initiative in 2005 through the Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development. They have now partnered with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s SF Works to train and place economically disadvantaged residents in asbestos abatement and solar installation. The program plans to expand its curriculum to include energy efficiency, weatherization, solar, bio diesel and brownfield remediation training. One judge expressed, “I was impressed by the program’s strong collaboration with community partners, including the education, labor and business community.”
St. Louis, MO (Medium-Size City Award for $550,000):
The St. Patrick Center Project Go! Green program consists of two parts: 1) The City Seeds Urban Farm Project which trains homeless individuals in green horticulture—preparing them for jobs in landscaping, turf maintenance, nurseries, gardening retailers, grounds-keeping, arboriculture, floriculture and other green-care jobs; and 2) The Go! Network, created this year to train professionals who have lost their jobs due to the current economic crisis in biofuels production and related fields. They plan to expand their program to incorporate the National Corn to Ethanol Research Center. “We were impressed by the program’s innovative approach with a particularly challenging population. The program exhibited key efforts to capitalize on reaching difficult populations while initiating a green jobs effort,” the judges said.
Providence, RI (Small-Size City Award for $372,500):
The Apeiron Institute for Sustainable Living collaborates with the Providence Workforce Investment Board (WIB) and the local community college in an energy efficiency training program for Workforce Investment Act-eligible participants to become energy auditors. They plan to expand the program to include an 8th grade green literacy program and a “Whole Home Health, Energy Efficiency, and Green Construction” training program. One judge commented, “We were impressed by the Apeiron Institute’s comprehensive strategy, the program’s capacity for replicability, and the strong leadership of the mayor.”
About Philanthropy at WalMart Stores, Inc.
WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and the WalMart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the WalMart Foundation funds initiatives focused on creating opportunities in education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. From February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009, WalMart – and its domestic and international Foundations – gave more than $423 million in cash and in-kind gifts globally.
2009 Mayors' Climate Protection Award Winners Announced
First Place Winners: Denver & Wilkes-Barre
Providence, RI — Denver (CO) Mayor John Hickenlooper, and Wilkes-Barre (PA) Mayor Thomas Leighton have been selected to receive the 2009 Mayors’ Climate Protection Awards, a program sponsored by The U.S. Conference of Mayors and WalMart Stores, Inc.
The Awards Program recognizes mayors for innovative practices in their cities designed to increase energy efficiency and curb global warming. An independent panel of judges determined the winners from a pool of 140 applicants.
“These leading mayors are great examples of the local action taking place within our cities to become climate friendly,” said Conference President Miami Mayor Manuel Diaz. “Mayor Hickenlooper’s FasTraks Program will serve as a national model, for cities striving to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, while Mayor Leighton’s Efficiency Program is a perfect example of the cost savings that energy efficient lighting can create.”
“We are proud to honor these cities and their mayors for their leadership and the innovative ways they are reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the quality of life in their communities,” said Ray Bracy, Senior Vice President, U.S. Government Relations and Public Affairs, WalMart Stores, Inc. “While the challenge of climate change remains, together we are helping Americans reduce their energy use and save money so they can live better. With the commitment of USCM, WalMart and concerned citizens, we will continue to move our cities, our nation and our planet forward toward a more sustainable future.”
“All 32 Denver metropolitan mayors and the Regional Transportation District joined forces and worked hard to earn community support for a sales tax increase to build FasTracks, the largest transportation initiative in the country with 119 miles of new light rail,” said Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper. “We were able to demonstrate to residents throughout the metropolitan area how they would benefit – that even if they wouldn’t ride light rail, they’d end up with shorter commute times by getting as many people possible off the highways and onto the trains. FasTracks will be a crown jewel for Colorado and a clear example of what can happen when government and the communities they serve come together for a common goal.”
“The City of Wilkes-Barre is very proud to be the recipient of this Award,” said Mayor Thomas M. Leighton. “Initiating an efficient energy service program in Wilkes-Barre made both environmental and economic sense. Through this program, we lessened our impact on the environment while experienced substantial cost-savings, estimated to be $170,000 annually. By winning this award, we hope to serve as a model for other communities and businesses who strive to become more environmentally conscious.”
First Place - Award Winning Program Summaries
Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper (Large City Category)
FasTraks
FasTracks is the most ambitious transit initiative in U.S. history, creating an opportunity to connect smart growth, housing choices and expanded transportation. The challenge of passing a large transit initiative in an ideologically diverse region was met by uniting the environmental and businesses communities and all Metro Denver mayors in a regional bipartisan coalition.
Regionwide, 51 of the 57 new stations will have Transit Oriented Development potential
- meaning the potential to reduce sprawl, and provide pedestrian- and bike-friendly environments that encourage residents to live, work, shop, and play in close proximity to transit, thus reducing their carbon footprint. Last year, Mayor Hickenlooper also pledged to make the Democratic Convention the greenest in history.
Wilkes-Barre (PA) Mayor Thomas Leighton (Small City Category)
Efficient Energy Service Program
A broad-based, public initiative that relies on a combination of energy efficiency upgrades in various city departments. These ranged from new compact fluorescent lamps; overhead and pyramid lighting in public parking garages and public spaces; LED traffic signalization lamps; and a new HVAC system in city hall.
Mayor Leighton initiated this program to make Wilkes-Barre a more eco-friendly place, and reduce the city’s operating expenses by increasing energy efficiency. The project was completely financed through a 15 year bank loan to the City of Wilkes-Barre. In 15 years, the annual energy savings to the City of Wilkes-Barre will be sufficient to pay back the loan with interest.
The following cities were selected as finalists for the awards.
Large City Finalists:
Boston; Charleston; Chattanooga; Colorado Springs; Frisco (Texas); Honolulu ; Houston; Louisville; San Francisco; Seattle; Stamford; and Tallahassee.
Small City Finalists:
Carmel; Chapel Hill; Columbia; Highland Park; Manhattan Beach; North Miami Beach; and Pleasanton.
Providence, RI — Denver (CO) Mayor John Hickenlooper, and Wilkes-Barre (PA) Mayor Thomas Leighton have been selected to receive the 2009 Mayors’ Climate Protection Awards, a program sponsored by The U.S. Conference of Mayors and WalMart Stores, Inc.
The Awards Program recognizes mayors for innovative practices in their cities designed to increase energy efficiency and curb global warming. An independent panel of judges determined the winners from a pool of 140 applicants.
“These leading mayors are great examples of the local action taking place within our cities to become climate friendly,” said Conference President Miami Mayor Manuel Diaz. “Mayor Hickenlooper’s FasTraks Program will serve as a national model, for cities striving to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, while Mayor Leighton’s Efficiency Program is a perfect example of the cost savings that energy efficient lighting can create.”
“We are proud to honor these cities and their mayors for their leadership and the innovative ways they are reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the quality of life in their communities,” said Ray Bracy, Senior Vice President, U.S. Government Relations and Public Affairs, WalMart Stores, Inc. “While the challenge of climate change remains, together we are helping Americans reduce their energy use and save money so they can live better. With the commitment of USCM, WalMart and concerned citizens, we will continue to move our cities, our nation and our planet forward toward a more sustainable future.”
“All 32 Denver metropolitan mayors and the Regional Transportation District joined forces and worked hard to earn community support for a sales tax increase to build FasTracks, the largest transportation initiative in the country with 119 miles of new light rail,” said Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper. “We were able to demonstrate to residents throughout the metropolitan area how they would benefit – that even if they wouldn’t ride light rail, they’d end up with shorter commute times by getting as many people possible off the highways and onto the trains. FasTracks will be a crown jewel for Colorado and a clear example of what can happen when government and the communities they serve come together for a common goal.”
“The City of Wilkes-Barre is very proud to be the recipient of this Award,” said Mayor Thomas M. Leighton. “Initiating an efficient energy service program in Wilkes-Barre made both environmental and economic sense. Through this program, we lessened our impact on the environment while experienced substantial cost-savings, estimated to be $170,000 annually. By winning this award, we hope to serve as a model for other communities and businesses who strive to become more environmentally conscious.”
First Place - Award Winning Program Summaries
Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper (Large City Category)
FasTraks
FasTracks is the most ambitious transit initiative in U.S. history, creating an opportunity to connect smart growth, housing choices and expanded transportation. The challenge of passing a large transit initiative in an ideologically diverse region was met by uniting the environmental and businesses communities and all Metro Denver mayors in a regional bipartisan coalition.
Regionwide, 51 of the 57 new stations will have Transit Oriented Development potential
- meaning the potential to reduce sprawl, and provide pedestrian- and bike-friendly environments that encourage residents to live, work, shop, and play in close proximity to transit, thus reducing their carbon footprint. Last year, Mayor Hickenlooper also pledged to make the Democratic Convention the greenest in history.
Wilkes-Barre (PA) Mayor Thomas Leighton (Small City Category)
Efficient Energy Service Program
A broad-based, public initiative that relies on a combination of energy efficiency upgrades in various city departments. These ranged from new compact fluorescent lamps; overhead and pyramid lighting in public parking garages and public spaces; LED traffic signalization lamps; and a new HVAC system in city hall.
Mayor Leighton initiated this program to make Wilkes-Barre a more eco-friendly place, and reduce the city’s operating expenses by increasing energy efficiency. The project was completely financed through a 15 year bank loan to the City of Wilkes-Barre. In 15 years, the annual energy savings to the City of Wilkes-Barre will be sufficient to pay back the loan with interest.
The following cities were selected as finalists for the awards.
Large City Finalists:
Boston; Charleston; Chattanooga; Colorado Springs; Frisco (Texas); Honolulu ; Houston; Louisville; San Francisco; Seattle; Stamford; and Tallahassee.
Small City Finalists:
Carmel; Chapel Hill; Columbia; Highland Park; Manhattan Beach; North Miami Beach; and Pleasanton.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Walmart Readies Remarkable Father's Day Prices For Every Dad's "Man Cave"
Retailer Brings in New Savings and New Gadgets, from Game Room to Garage
BENTONVILLE, Ark., (June 11, 2009) – Every dad has a man cave at home – the place you most likely will find him when he wants to relax. Starting June 14, Walmart is helping families find savings that add something more to man caves in his game room, garage and backyard. New savings include a $128 Magnavox Blu-ray Disc player, select Blu-ray movies two for $20, new video game bundles, and handy tools to keep him entertained with new projects.
Also starting this Sunday, Walmart will be the first retailer next to Dell to introduce the new, smart-looking Dell Studio One™ 19 touch screen desktop – one of the newest additions to a re-designed Walmart electronics department.
The Game Room/Living Room Cave: The hi-def or game experience with new savings.
* $128 Magnavox Blu-ray Disc player (NB500MGX)*
* Two for $20 Blu-ray movie bundles of dads’ favorites such as Shooter/ The Italian Job and Face Off / Next
* $59.96 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 09 All-Play Wii bundle with Wii Motion Plus Accessory and protective sleeve
* $399 PS3 (80GB) Bundle including Quantum of Solace on Blu-ray Disc and the MLB ’09: The Show
* Five for $20 select DVDs – More than 50 favorites including FlyBoys, iRobot, and We Are Marshall
* HDTV savings – $398 Sanyo 37-inch LCD (720p – model DP37649), $697 Vizio 42-inch LCD (1080p – model VO420E), and $1,788 Sony Bravia 52-inch (1080p – model KDL-52S5100)
The Home Office Cave: New products arrive and new savings inspire.
* $398 Dell Inspiron Black Notebook Computer* or $848 Dell Studio One 19 All-in-one Touch Desktop Computer – both exclusively at Walmart
* $69 Canon Pixma Ink Jet Photo Printer with Fax
* $69 Seagate Free Agent Go 250GB Portable Hard Drive
Mobile Man Cave: Popular GPS and cellular products for dads on-the-go, enjoying the drive.
* $199 Palm Pre smart phone (with qualifying contract, no mail-in rebate) – select stores
* $128 Garmin nuvi 250, 3.5 inch touch screen GPS - voice guidance and loaded with more than 5 million points of interest*
* $10 Glove Box Tool Kit (52-piece) for the car
* $46 iPod-Compatible FM Transmitter and Car Charger, available online only at Walmart.com
The Deck Cave: For grilling with the guys, playing chef for the family, or hanging out.
* $17 Grill Care Co. four-piece stainless steel barbecue tool set
* $20 Weber’s Way to Grill guide
* $149 Royal Oak 30-inch Deluxe Charcoal Grill or $198 Brinkman 4-Burner Gas Grill
* $50 Classic Cotton Rope Hammock, available online at Walmart.com
The Garage Cave: For escapes in the garage or making minor improvements.
* $15 Black & Decker 75-piece drill accessory kit or $15 Black & Decker cordless screwdriver
* $15 Carrand Power Jet Wash Wand, $25 Torin Blackjack floor jack, $30 5-gallon ShopVac
* $100 Karcher 1,550 PSI Pressure Washer
BENTONVILLE, Ark., (June 11, 2009) – Every dad has a man cave at home – the place you most likely will find him when he wants to relax. Starting June 14, Walmart is helping families find savings that add something more to man caves in his game room, garage and backyard. New savings include a $128 Magnavox Blu-ray Disc player, select Blu-ray movies two for $20, new video game bundles, and handy tools to keep him entertained with new projects.
Also starting this Sunday, Walmart will be the first retailer next to Dell to introduce the new, smart-looking Dell Studio One™ 19 touch screen desktop – one of the newest additions to a re-designed Walmart electronics department.
The Game Room/Living Room Cave: The hi-def or game experience with new savings.
* $128 Magnavox Blu-ray Disc player (NB500MGX)*
* Two for $20 Blu-ray movie bundles of dads’ favorites such as Shooter/ The Italian Job and Face Off / Next
* $59.96 Tiger Woods PGA Tour 09 All-Play Wii bundle with Wii Motion Plus Accessory and protective sleeve
* $399 PS3 (80GB) Bundle including Quantum of Solace on Blu-ray Disc and the MLB ’09: The Show
* Five for $20 select DVDs – More than 50 favorites including FlyBoys, iRobot, and We Are Marshall
* HDTV savings – $398 Sanyo 37-inch LCD (720p – model DP37649), $697 Vizio 42-inch LCD (1080p – model VO420E), and $1,788 Sony Bravia 52-inch (1080p – model KDL-52S5100)
The Home Office Cave: New products arrive and new savings inspire.
* $398 Dell Inspiron Black Notebook Computer* or $848 Dell Studio One 19 All-in-one Touch Desktop Computer – both exclusively at Walmart
* $69 Canon Pixma Ink Jet Photo Printer with Fax
* $69 Seagate Free Agent Go 250GB Portable Hard Drive
Mobile Man Cave: Popular GPS and cellular products for dads on-the-go, enjoying the drive.
* $199 Palm Pre smart phone (with qualifying contract, no mail-in rebate) – select stores
* $128 Garmin nuvi 250, 3.5 inch touch screen GPS - voice guidance and loaded with more than 5 million points of interest*
* $10 Glove Box Tool Kit (52-piece) for the car
* $46 iPod-Compatible FM Transmitter and Car Charger, available online only at Walmart.com
The Deck Cave: For grilling with the guys, playing chef for the family, or hanging out.
* $17 Grill Care Co. four-piece stainless steel barbecue tool set
* $20 Weber’s Way to Grill guide
* $149 Royal Oak 30-inch Deluxe Charcoal Grill or $198 Brinkman 4-Burner Gas Grill
* $50 Classic Cotton Rope Hammock, available online at Walmart.com
The Garage Cave: For escapes in the garage or making minor improvements.
* $15 Black & Decker 75-piece drill accessory kit or $15 Black & Decker cordless screwdriver
* $15 Carrand Power Jet Wash Wand, $25 Torin Blackjack floor jack, $30 5-gallon ShopVac
* $100 Karcher 1,550 PSI Pressure Washer
WalMart Announces Preliminary 2009 Annual Shareholders' Meeting Voting Results
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 8, 2009 - WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) today announced preliminary shareholder voting results for its Annual Meeting of Shareholders held June 5, 2009. Approximately 91.6 percent of outstanding shares were represented at the meeting.
The company reported that shareholders approved the election of each of WalMart’s 15 director nominees. Each director received affirmative votes from 96.7 percent or more of the shares voted. Shareholders also ratified Ernst & Young LLP as Wal-Mart’s independent accountants, with affirmative votes from approximately 99.3 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting.
The remaining six shareholder proposals, which the Board of Directors recommended against, failed to receive affirmative votes from a majority of the total shares that were represented at the meeting and accordingly, they were defeated. A preliminary report on the approximate percentages of the shares represented at the meeting that were voted in favor of each shareholder proposal follows:
* Proposal 3 – Gender identity nondiscrimination policy: approximately 12.8 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 4 – Pay for superior performance: approximately 2.6 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 5 – Advisory vote on executive compensation: approximately 18.5 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 6 – Political contributions report: approximately 11.7 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 7 – Special share owner meetings: approximately 21.5 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 8 – Incentive compensation to be paid in stock options: approximately 1.2 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
Final vote totals will be included in the company’s quarterly report for the fiscal quarter ending July 31, 2009 to be filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
The company reported that shareholders approved the election of each of WalMart’s 15 director nominees. Each director received affirmative votes from 96.7 percent or more of the shares voted. Shareholders also ratified Ernst & Young LLP as Wal-Mart’s independent accountants, with affirmative votes from approximately 99.3 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting.
The remaining six shareholder proposals, which the Board of Directors recommended against, failed to receive affirmative votes from a majority of the total shares that were represented at the meeting and accordingly, they were defeated. A preliminary report on the approximate percentages of the shares represented at the meeting that were voted in favor of each shareholder proposal follows:
* Proposal 3 – Gender identity nondiscrimination policy: approximately 12.8 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 4 – Pay for superior performance: approximately 2.6 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 5 – Advisory vote on executive compensation: approximately 18.5 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 6 – Political contributions report: approximately 11.7 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 7 – Special share owner meetings: approximately 21.5 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
* Proposal 8 – Incentive compensation to be paid in stock options: approximately 1.2 percent of the shares that were represented at the meeting
Final vote totals will be included in the company’s quarterly report for the fiscal quarter ending July 31, 2009 to be filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
Walmart Board Approves $15 Billion Share Repurchase Program
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 5, 2009 - At its 39th Annual Shareholders’ Meeting today, WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) announced that its Board of Directors has approved a new share repurchase program that gives the company authorization to repurchase $15 billion of its shares. This program replaces the previous $15 billion program, which was announced June 1, 2007 and had approximately $3.4 billion of remaining authorization. Under the program, repurchased shares are constructively retired and returned to unissued status.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, Wal-Mart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. Wal-Mart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, Wal-Mart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. Wal-Mart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
WalMart Board Approves $15 Billion Share Repurchase Program
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 5, 2009 - At its 39th Annual Shareholders’ Meeting today, WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) announced that its Board of Directors has approved a new share repurchase program that gives the company authorization to repurchase $15 billion of its shares. This program replaces the previous $15 billion program, which was announced June 1, 2007 and had approximately $3.4 billion of remaining authorization. Under the program, repurchased shares are constructively retired and returned to unissued status.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, Wal-Mart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. Wal-Mart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, Wal-Mart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. Wal-Mart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
Walmart Create More Than 22,000 Jobs for USA, in 2009
Positions to staff new or expanded stores; include store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, cashiers and sales associates
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 4, 2009 – Walmart U.S. announced today that it will create more than 22,000 jobs in 2009 to staff new or expanded stores in the United States. The company is hiring for a number of positions including store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, customer service associates, cashiers and sales associates among others.
"During this difficult economic time, we’re proud to be able to create quality jobs for thousands of Americans this year," said Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman of WalMart Stores, Inc. “At Walmart, we offer competitive pay and benefits and real opportunities for our associates to advance and build careers. Job creation is just one way in which we’re working hard every day to help people across this country live better.”Last October, Walmart announced plans to open 142 to 157 new or expanded stores during the 2010 fiscal year in the United States.
The company will create more than 1,000 jobs in several individual states. For example, the company will create approximately 1,300 jobs in Arizona; 1,000 jobs in California; 1,300 jobs in Florida; 1,500 jobs in Michigan; 1,200 jobs in New Jersey; 1,000 jobs in South Carolina; 1,200 jobs in Utah and 1,100 in Virginia.
“We are excited that during these economically challenging times Walmart is investing in Michigan by creating good paying jobs and offering benefits to their employees,” said Richard Studley, president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. “The positive impact that these jobs will have on the families of the new employees and their communities cannot be overstated.”
Benefits, including affordable health plans that offer customized health coverage options, are available to full- and part-time associates. More than 94 percent of store and club associates in the United States have some type of health care coverage.
Other benefits include profit sharing and 401(k) contributions, a stock purchase plan and a discount on store merchandise. Last year, the company put 4 percent of the income of every full-time and part-time U.S. associate with more than a year of service into a profit sharing and 401 (k) plan, even if the associate did not contribute to the plan.
In 2008, more than 150,000 hourly associates received promotions to new positions within the company. Earlier this year, the company shared more than $2 billion in financial incentives with hourly store and club associates through bonuses, 401(k) and profit sharing plans.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 4, 2009 – Walmart U.S. announced today that it will create more than 22,000 jobs in 2009 to staff new or expanded stores in the United States. The company is hiring for a number of positions including store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, customer service associates, cashiers and sales associates among others.
"During this difficult economic time, we’re proud to be able to create quality jobs for thousands of Americans this year," said Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman of WalMart Stores, Inc. “At Walmart, we offer competitive pay and benefits and real opportunities for our associates to advance and build careers. Job creation is just one way in which we’re working hard every day to help people across this country live better.”Last October, Walmart announced plans to open 142 to 157 new or expanded stores during the 2010 fiscal year in the United States.
The company will create more than 1,000 jobs in several individual states. For example, the company will create approximately 1,300 jobs in Arizona; 1,000 jobs in California; 1,300 jobs in Florida; 1,500 jobs in Michigan; 1,200 jobs in New Jersey; 1,000 jobs in South Carolina; 1,200 jobs in Utah and 1,100 in Virginia.
“We are excited that during these economically challenging times Walmart is investing in Michigan by creating good paying jobs and offering benefits to their employees,” said Richard Studley, president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. “The positive impact that these jobs will have on the families of the new employees and their communities cannot be overstated.”
Benefits, including affordable health plans that offer customized health coverage options, are available to full- and part-time associates. More than 94 percent of store and club associates in the United States have some type of health care coverage.
Other benefits include profit sharing and 401(k) contributions, a stock purchase plan and a discount on store merchandise. Last year, the company put 4 percent of the income of every full-time and part-time U.S. associate with more than a year of service into a profit sharing and 401 (k) plan, even if the associate did not contribute to the plan.
In 2008, more than 150,000 hourly associates received promotions to new positions within the company. Earlier this year, the company shared more than $2 billion in financial incentives with hourly store and club associates through bonuses, 401(k) and profit sharing plans.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Walmart to Launch Miley Cyrus & Max Azria Clothing Line As Walmart Presents the Miley Cyrus Concert Tour
North American Tour to Kick Off This September;
New Paperless Ticket Technology Utilized for North American Tour Going on Sale June 13, 2009 at 10:00a.m.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 3, 2009 – Walmart today announced the introduction of Miley Cyrus & Max Azria, a new clothing line available only at Walmart. Walmart brings together best-selling artist and entertainer Miley Cyrus and Max Azria of apparel house BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Inc. to offer customers affordable and trend-right apparel. The line will arrive in all Walmart stores and on Walmart.com in early August, and includes tops, pants, graphic tees, shoes and accessories, all priced less than $20.
“Our launch of the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria line continues our strategy of engaging customers across categories," said John Fleming, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Walmart U.S. “This time, we're bringing together a leading entertainer and a top apparel house to bring exciting product and price leadership to our customers.”
Miley Cyrus’ rock-and-roll roots influenced many of the looks. The line reflects a continuation of her relationship with Walmart, where she is among the retailer’s top-selling recording artists. “I love creating looks that are all about personal expression and individuality,” said Cyrus. “Collaborating with Max Azria has been an amazing experience, and I’m really excited about launching this line with Walmart. There’s even more to come!”
“Miley Cyrus is talented and approachable, so working with her sparked a line that is authentic and vibrant,” said Max Azria, designer and CEO of BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Inc. “By partnering with Walmart, we saw an opportunity to reach mainstream customers with our product and introduce our designs to a much broader audience.”
Complementing the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria announcement, Walmart will be the title sponsor of the Miley Cyrus concert tour. AEG Live announced that tickets for the North American tour will go on sale to the public on June 13, 2009, at 10:00a.m. American Express® Cardmembers will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase advance tickets to the tour prior to public sale. Tickets will be available for purchase with an American Express Card through ticketmaster.com/mileycyrus or by calling 800-745-3000, from 10:00a.m. locally Wednesday, June 10, 2009 through 10:00p.m. locally Friday, June 12, 2009.
All tickets will be sold exclusively through Paperless Ticket delivery, which means fans will not receive a physical concert ticket for their entry into the event. Buying paperless helps ensure fans have secure and convenient access to event tickets at the original sale price.
On the day of show, concert-goers just need to bring the credit card they used for the ticket purchase and their government-issued photo ID to the concert. All members of the ticket purchaser’s party must be present at the same time to enter the venue. The venue’s ticket usher will swipe their credit card upon entry and present each person in their party with seat locator slips for quick access into the show. To purchase paperless tickets or for more information, fans should visit ticketmaster.com/mileycyrus or call their local Ticketmaster charge-by-phone number.
Box-office sales will be limited to day of show sales only and will be paperless. Gift Cards will not be accepted. Fans in Portland, OR; Des Moines, IA; Las Vegas, NV; Tulsa, OK; Philadelphia, PA and Columbia, SC should visit their local concert venue Web site or aeglive.com for purchase information as tickets will not be sold through Ticketmaster. Tour tickets are limited to four (4) per household.
Upcoming European dates will be announced in the near future. The full North American schedule for the Miley Cyrus concert tour 2009 is as follows:
Date Location Venue
September 14th Portland, OR Rose Garden
September 16th Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome
September 18th Oakland, CA Oracle Arena
September 20th San Jose, CA HP Pavilion at San Jose
September 22nd Los Angeles, CA Staples Center
September 23rd Anaheim, CA Honda Center
September 25th Glendale, AZ jobing.com Arena
September 26th Las Vegas, NV Thomas & Mack Center
September 29th Salt Lake City, UT Energy Solutions Arena
October 2nd Omaha, NE Qwest Center
October 3rd Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
October 4th St. Louis, MO Scottrade Center
October 6th Auburn Hills, MI The Palace of Auburn Hills
October 7th Columbus, OH Nationwide Arena
October 9th DesMoines, IA Wells Fargo Arena
October 10th Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center
October 12th Tulsa, OK BOK Center
October 15th San Antonio, TX AT&T Center
October 18th Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
October 20th New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
October 21st Memphis, TN FedExForum
October 23rd Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
October 24th N. Little Rock, AR ALLTEL Arena
October 27th Chicago, IL United Center
October 29th Mineapolis, MN Target Center
October 31st Louisville, KY Freedom Hall
November 1st Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
November 3rd Washington, DC Verizon Center
November 4th Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
November 5th University Park, PA Bryce Jordan Center
November 7th Newark, NJ Prudential Center
November 8th Newark, NJ Prudential Center
November 9th Boston, MA TD Banknorth Garden
November 12th Hartford, CT XL Center
November 15th Clevland, OH Quickens Loan Arena
November 16th Indianapolis, IN Conseco Fieldhouse
November 18th Long Island, NY Nassau Coliseum
November 19th Long Island, NY Nassau Coliseum
November 22nd Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
November 24th Charlotte, NC Time Warner Cable Arena
November 25th Nashville, TN Sommet Center
November 28th Columbia, SC Colonial Life Arena
November 29th Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
December 1st Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum
December 2nd Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
For more ticket and tour information, fans can visit ticketmaster.com, walmart.com and aeglive.com. Tickets subject to applicable service charges. Event time and date subject to change. Ticketing information may vary per market. Please check your local venue for ticket purchasing information.
New Paperless Ticket Technology Utilized for North American Tour Going on Sale June 13, 2009 at 10:00a.m.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 3, 2009 – Walmart today announced the introduction of Miley Cyrus & Max Azria, a new clothing line available only at Walmart. Walmart brings together best-selling artist and entertainer Miley Cyrus and Max Azria of apparel house BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Inc. to offer customers affordable and trend-right apparel. The line will arrive in all Walmart stores and on Walmart.com in early August, and includes tops, pants, graphic tees, shoes and accessories, all priced less than $20.
“Our launch of the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria line continues our strategy of engaging customers across categories," said John Fleming, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Walmart U.S. “This time, we're bringing together a leading entertainer and a top apparel house to bring exciting product and price leadership to our customers.”
Miley Cyrus’ rock-and-roll roots influenced many of the looks. The line reflects a continuation of her relationship with Walmart, where she is among the retailer’s top-selling recording artists. “I love creating looks that are all about personal expression and individuality,” said Cyrus. “Collaborating with Max Azria has been an amazing experience, and I’m really excited about launching this line with Walmart. There’s even more to come!”
“Miley Cyrus is talented and approachable, so working with her sparked a line that is authentic and vibrant,” said Max Azria, designer and CEO of BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, Inc. “By partnering with Walmart, we saw an opportunity to reach mainstream customers with our product and introduce our designs to a much broader audience.”
Complementing the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria announcement, Walmart will be the title sponsor of the Miley Cyrus concert tour. AEG Live announced that tickets for the North American tour will go on sale to the public on June 13, 2009, at 10:00a.m. American Express® Cardmembers will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase advance tickets to the tour prior to public sale. Tickets will be available for purchase with an American Express Card through ticketmaster.com/mileycyrus or by calling 800-745-3000, from 10:00a.m. locally Wednesday, June 10, 2009 through 10:00p.m. locally Friday, June 12, 2009.
All tickets will be sold exclusively through Paperless Ticket delivery, which means fans will not receive a physical concert ticket for their entry into the event. Buying paperless helps ensure fans have secure and convenient access to event tickets at the original sale price.
On the day of show, concert-goers just need to bring the credit card they used for the ticket purchase and their government-issued photo ID to the concert. All members of the ticket purchaser’s party must be present at the same time to enter the venue. The venue’s ticket usher will swipe their credit card upon entry and present each person in their party with seat locator slips for quick access into the show. To purchase paperless tickets or for more information, fans should visit ticketmaster.com/mileycyrus or call their local Ticketmaster charge-by-phone number.
Box-office sales will be limited to day of show sales only and will be paperless. Gift Cards will not be accepted. Fans in Portland, OR; Des Moines, IA; Las Vegas, NV; Tulsa, OK; Philadelphia, PA and Columbia, SC should visit their local concert venue Web site or aeglive.com for purchase information as tickets will not be sold through Ticketmaster. Tour tickets are limited to four (4) per household.
Upcoming European dates will be announced in the near future. The full North American schedule for the Miley Cyrus concert tour 2009 is as follows:
Date Location Venue
September 14th Portland, OR Rose Garden
September 16th Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome
September 18th Oakland, CA Oracle Arena
September 20th San Jose, CA HP Pavilion at San Jose
September 22nd Los Angeles, CA Staples Center
September 23rd Anaheim, CA Honda Center
September 25th Glendale, AZ jobing.com Arena
September 26th Las Vegas, NV Thomas & Mack Center
September 29th Salt Lake City, UT Energy Solutions Arena
October 2nd Omaha, NE Qwest Center
October 3rd Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
October 4th St. Louis, MO Scottrade Center
October 6th Auburn Hills, MI The Palace of Auburn Hills
October 7th Columbus, OH Nationwide Arena
October 9th DesMoines, IA Wells Fargo Arena
October 10th Milwaukee, WI Bradley Center
October 12th Tulsa, OK BOK Center
October 15th San Antonio, TX AT&T Center
October 18th Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
October 20th New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
October 21st Memphis, TN FedExForum
October 23rd Birmingham, AL BJCC Arena
October 24th N. Little Rock, AR ALLTEL Arena
October 27th Chicago, IL United Center
October 29th Mineapolis, MN Target Center
October 31st Louisville, KY Freedom Hall
November 1st Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
November 3rd Washington, DC Verizon Center
November 4th Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
November 5th University Park, PA Bryce Jordan Center
November 7th Newark, NJ Prudential Center
November 8th Newark, NJ Prudential Center
November 9th Boston, MA TD Banknorth Garden
November 12th Hartford, CT XL Center
November 15th Clevland, OH Quickens Loan Arena
November 16th Indianapolis, IN Conseco Fieldhouse
November 18th Long Island, NY Nassau Coliseum
November 19th Long Island, NY Nassau Coliseum
November 22nd Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
November 24th Charlotte, NC Time Warner Cable Arena
November 25th Nashville, TN Sommet Center
November 28th Columbia, SC Colonial Life Arena
November 29th Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
December 1st Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum
December 2nd Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
For more ticket and tour information, fans can visit ticketmaster.com, walmart.com and aeglive.com. Tickets subject to applicable service charges. Event time and date subject to change. Ticketing information may vary per market. Please check your local venue for ticket purchasing information.
Walmart U.S. To Create More Than 22,000 Jobs In 2009
Positions to staff new or expanded stores; include store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, cashiers and sales associates
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 4, 2009 – Walmart U.S. announced today that it will create more than 22,000 jobs in 2009 to staff new or expanded stores in the United States. The company is hiring for a number of positions including store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, customer service associates, cashiers and sales associates among others.
"During this difficult economic time, we’re proud to be able to create quality jobs for thousands of Americans this year," said Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman of WalMart Stores, Inc. “At Walmart, we offer competitive pay and benefits and real opportunities for our associates to advance and build careers. Job creation is just one way in which we’re working hard every day to help people across this country live better.”Last October, Walmart announced plans to open 142 to 157 new or expanded stores during the 2010 fiscal year in the United States.
The company will create more than 1,000 jobs in several individual states. For example, the company will create approximately 1,300 jobs in Arizona; 1,000 jobs in California; 1,300 jobs in Florida; 1,500 jobs in Michigan; 1,200 jobs in New Jersey; 1,000 jobs in South Carolina; 1,200 jobs in Utah and 1,100 in Virginia.
“We are excited that during these economically challenging times Walmart is investing in Michigan by creating good paying jobs and offering benefits to their employees,” said Richard Studley, president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. “The positive impact that these jobs will have on the families of the new employees and their communities cannot be overstated.”
Benefits, including affordable health plans that offer customized health coverage options, are available to full- and part-time associates. More than 94 percent of store and club associates in the United States have some type of health care coverage.
Other benefits include profit sharing and 401(k) contributions, a stock purchase plan and a discount on store merchandise. Last year, the company put 4 percent of the income of every full-time and part-time U.S. associate with more than a year of service into a profit sharing and 401 (k) plan, even if the associate did not contribute to the plan.
In 2008, more than 150,000 hourly associates received promotions to new positions within the company. Earlier this year, the company shared more than $2 billion in financial incentives with hourly store and club associates through bonuses, 401(k) and profit sharing plans.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., June 4, 2009 – Walmart U.S. announced today that it will create more than 22,000 jobs in 2009 to staff new or expanded stores in the United States. The company is hiring for a number of positions including store management, pharmacists, human resource managers, customer service associates, cashiers and sales associates among others.
"During this difficult economic time, we’re proud to be able to create quality jobs for thousands of Americans this year," said Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman of WalMart Stores, Inc. “At Walmart, we offer competitive pay and benefits and real opportunities for our associates to advance and build careers. Job creation is just one way in which we’re working hard every day to help people across this country live better.”Last October, Walmart announced plans to open 142 to 157 new or expanded stores during the 2010 fiscal year in the United States.
The company will create more than 1,000 jobs in several individual states. For example, the company will create approximately 1,300 jobs in Arizona; 1,000 jobs in California; 1,300 jobs in Florida; 1,500 jobs in Michigan; 1,200 jobs in New Jersey; 1,000 jobs in South Carolina; 1,200 jobs in Utah and 1,100 in Virginia.
“We are excited that during these economically challenging times Walmart is investing in Michigan by creating good paying jobs and offering benefits to their employees,” said Richard Studley, president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. “The positive impact that these jobs will have on the families of the new employees and their communities cannot be overstated.”
Benefits, including affordable health plans that offer customized health coverage options, are available to full- and part-time associates. More than 94 percent of store and club associates in the United States have some type of health care coverage.
Other benefits include profit sharing and 401(k) contributions, a stock purchase plan and a discount on store merchandise. Last year, the company put 4 percent of the income of every full-time and part-time U.S. associate with more than a year of service into a profit sharing and 401 (k) plan, even if the associate did not contribute to the plan.
In 2008, more than 150,000 hourly associates received promotions to new positions within the company. Earlier this year, the company shared more than $2 billion in financial incentives with hourly store and club associates through bonuses, 401(k) and profit sharing plans.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
WalMart CEO Mike Duke Says Company has "More Opportunities Today Than Ever"
Says Retailer Will Keep New Customers When Economy Improves
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark., June 5, 2009 - Today WalMart Stores, Inc. President and CEO Mike Duke told more than 16,000 people at the company’s Annual Shareholders’ Meeting that the company has had strong performance and that it will “seize the moment” to make further strides with its business and help people save money and live better around the world.
“This is not a time to slow down. This is not a time to take comfort in our success. This is WalMart’s time to look to the future and seize the opportunity to truly lead around the world,” said Duke. “We must broaden and accelerate what we’re already doing well. And where we can do better, we will innovate.”
Over the past few years, the company has made significant gains with customers by improving the store experience, offering better merchandise presentations, strengthening international formats and re-emphasizing price leadership. Duke said the improvements that have led to the company’s strong performance are permanent and sustainable. He said he believes that’s important because customers are not going back in terms of their mindset.
“Our customers will stay with us when this economy turns around and they have more discretionary money to spend. We are building long-term loyalty to WalMart,” said Duke. “I believe the economic crisis has brought a fundamental shift in consumer attitudes and behavior. There is a ‘new normal,’ in which people want to save money and are getting smarter about saving money.”
Duke highlighted WalMart’s success in the past fiscal year with earnings up 6 percent to $3.35 per share, $7.3 billion returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, and worldwide sales surpassing $400 billion for the first time. Duke also said that the strength of the company’s first quarter performance was very good relative to competitors.
“We continue to outperform the market. We have a strong balance sheet and great access to capital markets. We also increased our annual dividend by 15 percent. And this is at a time when a record number of companies decreased or even eliminated their dividends,” Duke said. “Shareholders are really seeing this company’s culture of sound financial management pay off. You’re also seeing the depth and talent of our leadership team.”
The WalMart CEO also broadly outlined enhanced training and development of the company’s global workforce of nearly 2.2 million associates. “Many of our associates build careers at WalMart - taking on new roles and growing and developing with us. And for many associates, a WalMart job is their first job,” Duke said. “We can strengthen the training and educational opportunities that all associates receive while working at WalMart. We can offer a clearer career path to achievement. And if we do that, we will provide our associates with an even stronger foundation for their futures.”
Duke reiterated WalMart’s commitment to the “Live Better” part of the company’s mission and continuing to help solve the big issues facing the world. “We are passionate about helping our customers live better. And I think we’ve set an example that shows business can be trusted. Customers and elected officials recognize and appreciate that leadership,” Duke said. “Your Wal-Mart will broaden and accelerate our commitment to associates, to sustainability, to responsible sourcing. Your WalMart will lead.”
Having been elected by the Board of Directors to his new post in November, this was Duke’s first address at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting as president and CEO. He closed his remarks by saying, “I am so proud to have been selected to lead this great company and work shoulder to shoulder with you. I commit to all of you, as your CEO, that I will serve you with trust and integrity. I commit to you that I will honor our culture and the legacy of Sam Walton. And I promise you always my personal best, and I will require your personal best, so that together we can seize this moment, and we can be the best Wal-Mart that we can be.”
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark., June 5, 2009 - Today WalMart Stores, Inc. President and CEO Mike Duke told more than 16,000 people at the company’s Annual Shareholders’ Meeting that the company has had strong performance and that it will “seize the moment” to make further strides with its business and help people save money and live better around the world.
“This is not a time to slow down. This is not a time to take comfort in our success. This is WalMart’s time to look to the future and seize the opportunity to truly lead around the world,” said Duke. “We must broaden and accelerate what we’re already doing well. And where we can do better, we will innovate.”
Over the past few years, the company has made significant gains with customers by improving the store experience, offering better merchandise presentations, strengthening international formats and re-emphasizing price leadership. Duke said the improvements that have led to the company’s strong performance are permanent and sustainable. He said he believes that’s important because customers are not going back in terms of their mindset.
“Our customers will stay with us when this economy turns around and they have more discretionary money to spend. We are building long-term loyalty to WalMart,” said Duke. “I believe the economic crisis has brought a fundamental shift in consumer attitudes and behavior. There is a ‘new normal,’ in which people want to save money and are getting smarter about saving money.”
Duke highlighted WalMart’s success in the past fiscal year with earnings up 6 percent to $3.35 per share, $7.3 billion returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, and worldwide sales surpassing $400 billion for the first time. Duke also said that the strength of the company’s first quarter performance was very good relative to competitors.
“We continue to outperform the market. We have a strong balance sheet and great access to capital markets. We also increased our annual dividend by 15 percent. And this is at a time when a record number of companies decreased or even eliminated their dividends,” Duke said. “Shareholders are really seeing this company’s culture of sound financial management pay off. You’re also seeing the depth and talent of our leadership team.”
The WalMart CEO also broadly outlined enhanced training and development of the company’s global workforce of nearly 2.2 million associates. “Many of our associates build careers at WalMart - taking on new roles and growing and developing with us. And for many associates, a WalMart job is their first job,” Duke said. “We can strengthen the training and educational opportunities that all associates receive while working at WalMart. We can offer a clearer career path to achievement. And if we do that, we will provide our associates with an even stronger foundation for their futures.”
Duke reiterated WalMart’s commitment to the “Live Better” part of the company’s mission and continuing to help solve the big issues facing the world. “We are passionate about helping our customers live better. And I think we’ve set an example that shows business can be trusted. Customers and elected officials recognize and appreciate that leadership,” Duke said. “Your Wal-Mart will broaden and accelerate our commitment to associates, to sustainability, to responsible sourcing. Your WalMart will lead.”
Having been elected by the Board of Directors to his new post in November, this was Duke’s first address at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting as president and CEO. He closed his remarks by saying, “I am so proud to have been selected to lead this great company and work shoulder to shoulder with you. I commit to all of you, as your CEO, that I will serve you with trust and integrity. I commit to you that I will honor our culture and the legacy of Sam Walton. And I promise you always my personal best, and I will require your personal best, so that together we can seize this moment, and we can be the best Wal-Mart that we can be.”
Remarks as Prepared for Mike Duke President and CEO of WalMart Stores, Inc. WalMart Shareholders Meeting
Thank you, Linda. I really appreciate that introduction. And I appreciate the role that the Board of Directors plays in making WalMart a great company.
And to all of the associates here, let me just say: I appreciate you -- each and every one of you. We know what’s behind our success at WalMart. It’s almost 2.2 million hard working associates around the world. I believe that what Sam Walton used to say is still true today: “Our people make the difference.”
Rob Walton was very kind in what he said about David, Lee and me. That sort of continuity among CEOs is pretty rare these days. But it does happen at Wal-Mart. As Rob said, I think it speaks volumes about the culture that Sam Walton created.
Each of us is a steward of this culture and the Wal-Mart mission. We have to be every day, in every store, with every customer. At the same time, saving people money so they can live better is bigger than any individual, especially a CEO. This mission is an opportunity and a responsibility that we all share, to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of millions of people around the world.
And never has this mission been more important - or more relevant - than right now. I’m absolutely convinced that these are the times that Sam Walton built your company for.
Over the past year, our performance has been strong. I know Tom touched on these numbers before, but I think they’re worth repeating. Last fiscal year, earnings were up 6 percent to $3.35 per share. We returned $7.3 billion to you, our shareholders, through dividends and share repurchases. We closed the year with about $11.6 billion in free cash flow. And our worldwide sales surpassed, for the first time, $400 billion.
These would be good results in any year. But this has been far from any old year. We’re living through and working through the toughest global economy in decades. You have so much to be proud of.
And you should be proud that we’re already off to a good start this year. In the 1st quarter, our earnings and comp sales were strong. We continue to outperform the market. We have a strong balance sheet and great access to capital markets. We’ve also increased our dividend by 15 percent, and this is at a time at a time when a record number of companies decreased or even eliminated their dividends.
Shareholders are really seeing this company’s culture of sound financial management pay off. You’re also seeing the depth and talent of our leadership team -- with Eduardo in the U.S., Doug at International, Brian at Sam’s, and the other corporate leaders that I get to work with everyday.
You know, I’m so proud of the job that our leadership team and everyone here and everyone in our stores has done. When you think about it, we did what we set out to do over the last couple of years. All around the world, we built a better Wal-Mart.
We’ve improved our merchandise. The products and services and brands that our customers want are on our shelves.
We’ve improved the store experience. Customers are able to shop our stores quickly and conveniently and with the help of friendly associates.
We’ve reemphasized price leadership. Customers know that when we say our prices are unbeatable, we mean unbeatable.
We’ve strengthened our formats around the world. Customers are getting the experience that they want, and we’re getting the efficiency that we need.
We’ve also made real progress on big issues like health care and sustainability. Customers and elected officials recognize and appreciate that leadership.
So regardless of the country or the language, people everywhere trust our company. They trust Wal-Mart. They trust you.
And let me say, the improvements we’ve made are permanent and sustainable. We are not going back. This is important because the mindset of our customers is not going back.
I believe the economic crisis has brought a fundamental shift in consumer attitudes and behavior. There is a “new normal” in which people want to save money and are getting smarter about saving money. They understand and appreciate the value of value.
So let me be clear, and people ask me about this all the time, our customers will stay with us when this economy turns around and they have more discretionary money to spend. We are building long term loyalty to Wal-Mart.
So does this mean that we can go back to our offices, our stores and our clubs, and relax and take it easy for a while? Of course not. That’s not us. As Sam once said, “We just don’t feel good unless we’re moving forward and upward.” And that’s an important part of my own approach. So let me tell you a little about that.
First, I really care about people. Anyone who has worked with me knows that I invest in people and want them to grow. Setting high standards is an essential part of that.
I also have a passion for retailing. I love spending time in our stores and clubs, and I especially love meeting customers in their homes. And I value our suppliers and work hard to listen to them and understand their businesses.
I love this company, its culture, how we treat people, and what we stand for and believe in.
I also really love to compete, but only when we win. Therefore, we only play with a plan for winning.
So let me ask you this: how can we go beyond building a better Wal-Mart? How do we build the best Wal-Mart possible?
I believe we have more opportunities today than ever in our history. Because of the “new normal,” because we’ve built so much trust, we can truly lead -- for our customers, for our shareholders, for our planet.
But we must seize this moment in time.
If you’ve been in a meeting with me over the last couple of months, you’ve heard what I believe we need to do. All of us as a team must broaden and accelerate what we’re already doing well. That means having a greater sense of urgency. We can’t waste a second. And it means everyone in the Wal-Mart family around the world is participating. Everyone will be included.
And where we can do better, we will innovate. We will change. We will improve. Sam Walton said that one of the greatest strengths of Wal-Mart’s culture is our ability to turn on a dime. And I believe Mr. Sam was right. We should not hesitate to call on that strength.
So how can we put this into action? I believe we can do much more to act as a global company and leverage our strengths around the world. We need to see ourselves not just as Wal-Mart U.S. or International or Sam’s Club, but as one global company.
That means creating, and when appropriate, sharing systems and processes that lower costs. It means doing a better job of global sourcing, and leveraging our purchasing worldwide. It means winning the talent war -- by recruiting the best, by developing and investing in associates, and by sharing knowledge and ideas across borders. It means managing costs in our operations everywhere, so that we can continue to be aggressive in saving customers money.
We need to be obsessed with understanding customers in every market we operate in. And we need to serve customers however they want to shop -- whether it’s on a mobile phone, a laptop, or in a local store. We also need to see ourselves and conduct ourselves not as Goliath, but as David -- not as a giant, but as a nimble and innovative competitor in every market.
So this is not a time to slow down. This is not a time to take comfort in our success. This is Wal-Mart’s time to look to the future and seize the opportunity to truly lead around the world.
I believe we are doing this in the area of sustainability. We know how much this focus has made a difference for our company. Sustainability has helped us make our operations more efficient. We’ve also stepped out and helped our customers, our suppliers, and our communities be more socially and environmentally responsible. Today, we’re playing a larger role in society that few of us ever thought we would play. We’re going to continue to focus and lead on sustainability.
At the same time, I believe we have a big opportunity to lead with our people. As I said before, I really love people. There is so much that we have in common -- regardless of where we’re from, the positions we hold, or how long we’ve been with the company.
As you heard throughout the morning, we see ourselves as a family. We care deeply about our communities. And we value opportunity.
At WalMart, our associates have real opportunities to advance and build a career. Nearly three-quarters of store management in the U.S. started with us as hourly associates.
We’re creating jobs. Last year, your Wal-Mart created 63,000 jobs around the world, including 33,000 jobs in the U.S. And when the company does well financially, we share our results with associates. In fact, for their 2008 performance, we distributed well over a billion dollars worldwide to hourly associates in incentive bonuses.
This year, I want our company to build on the progress we’ve made in associate opportunity. We can make a big difference here. We can change the way people everywhere look at training and development in a company of our size. And we can be part of the solution to some big issues facing the countries we operate in.
Issues like having a well-trained workforce to meet the challenges of the 21st century; offering working people a path into a better life - whether they live in rural America or cities in emerging countries; helping women - who for too long have been left out of too many economies - climb the career ladder.
Many of our associates build careers at Wal-Mart -- taking on new roles and growing and developing with us, just like a lot of people here today. And for many associates, a Wal-Mart job is their first job.
Like Eduardo said, we can strengthen the training and educational opportunities that all associates receive while working at Wal-Mart. We can offer a clearer career path to achievement. And if we do that, we will provide our associates with an even stronger foundation for their futures.
Let me make another important point on this topic, I know we’ve made improvements in the areas of diversity and inclusion. In fact, this week I was excited to kick off the first meeting of the President's Global Council of Women Leaders. They’re an important group that we’re going to look to for advice. But I’m still not satisfied with our progress to date.
Anyone who knows me and my priorities, knows how much I value diversity and inclusion. No one should be left out. Every Wal-Mart associate deserves the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential at this company and in life.
At Wal-Mart, we’ve always taken the long perspective. We have a culture built on trust and integrity. We are passionate about helping our customers live better. And I think we’ve set an example that shows business can be trusted.
The issues we face in the world today are going to require business to be part of the solution. And they’re going to require business and government and NGOs to work together. It’s the only way the world is going to emerge stronger from this difficult time.
The fact is the global economy will grow again and create jobs again. But will our prosperity be built on a solid foundation - a foundation that is sustainable? Or will it be built on sand?
I believe we can and must have an economy that is greener - that uses fewer fossil fuels and relies more on renewable forms of energy. I believe we can have a population that is healthier and has access to affordable and quality health care. I believe we can have a global workforce that has the skills and knowledge it needs to succeed in good times and transition when times get tough. I believe we are helping working men and women everywhere not just aspire to a better life but get there and live there securely.
Your WalMart will broaden and accelerate - broaden and accelerate - our commitment to associates, to sustainability, to responsible sourcing. Your Wal-Mart will lead.
As part of the WalMart family, we have a very special opportunity and responsibility. It comes from how we’ve performed and positioned ourselves. It comes from the mission of saving people money so they can live better. But above all, it comes from who we are as individuals and the culture we all share.
This is your WalMart. And this is my Wal-Mart. We are almost 2.2 million associates strong. We operate more than 7,900 stores in 15 countries. And more than 200 million customers and members around the world go through our check out lines each week.
This is the extraordinary company that we’re all a part of. And never has there been a time when the strengths of our company were more aligned with what the world needs than right now. This is true for how we can help the world save money, but also for how we can help the world live better.
Let me leave you with one final thought. I am so proud to have been selected to lead this great company and work shoulder to shoulder with all of you. My wife, Susan, and my family are so proud to be in this role as part of the worldwide Wal-Mart family.
I commit to all of you, as your CEO, that I will serve you with trust and integrity. I commit to you that I will honor our culture and the legacy of Sam Walton.
And I promise you always my personal best, and I will require your personal best, so that together we can seize this moment, and we can be the best Wal-Mart that we can be.
Thanks to each and every one of you.
WalMart Board Approves $15 Billion Share Repurchase Program
June 5, 2009 - At its 39th Annual Shareholders’ Meeting today, WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) announced that its Board of Directors has approved a new share repurchase program that gives the company authorization to repurchase $15 billion of its shares. This program replaces the previous $15 billion program, which was announced June 1, 2007 and had approximately $3.4 billion of remaining authorization. Under the program, repurchased shares are constructively retired and returned to unissued status.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, WalMart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. WalMart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
"We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders through share repurchase and dividends," said Mike Duke, WalMart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. “During the last five years, WalMart has repurchased approximately $21 billion worth of its shares."
In addition to share repurchases made in fiscal year 2010, WalMart will pay more than $4.2 billion to shareholders in the form of dividends during fiscal year 2010. WalMart has increased its dividend every year since March of 1974, when it began paying a dividend of five cents per share. The company is paying an annual dividend of $1.09 per share this fiscal year, a 15-percent increase from $0.95 paid last year.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Walmart Brings Savings on Fresh Produce to Norristown
New store adds full line of groceries and 200 new jobs
NORRISTOWN, Pa., May 8, 2009 – The wait is over for residents in Norristown eager to see their Walmart at 650 S. Trooper Road bring savings to local shoppers on a full line of groceries and a wide assortment of new products and services. The new Walmart is designed to make shopping easy for customers. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays. Walmart also aligned the departments that customers shop most frequently. The pharmacy, for example, is adjacent to food making it easier for customers to pick up their prescriptions while shopping for their groceries. The store will open to customers at 7 a.m., Wednesday, after a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The store originally opened in 2001 in West Norriton Township. The expansion has increased the store’s size by more than 62,000 square feet including a full line of fresh produce, meats, bakery and an expanded electronics department.
“We have a loyal customer base and some have been shopping here since our original opening,” said Store Manager Bill Begley. “We think they’ll love the easy-to-shop layout of the new Walmart and appreciate the savings we offer on the products they are looking for.” The store is among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart store design.
Expanded Walmart Adds 200 New Jobs
The store plans to employ approximately 425 associates, including approximately 200 positions created by the relocation. “Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Begley said. “As a native of Norristown I am proud to bring good jobs with career opportunities our community and neighbors.”
Layout Improves Customer Experience
In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh its stores, its merchandise and its customer experience. The improvements have all come together in the company’s newest stores, such as the Norristown store, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
“The layout of the store is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” said Begley. “By grouping the products that our customers most often purchase including health and beauty and pet supplies, we are making one-stop shopping even easier.”
Lower shelving creates an improved sightline and directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for quickly. Walmart also combined the customer service desk, site to store pick-up location and photo lab in one area near the entrance. Customers now have easy access to these services, as well as associates on hand to help meet their needs.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Norristown store, like all new Walmart stores, includes energy-efficient technology and environmentally friendly features to reduce energy and water consumption and minimize waste. The store’s 150 skylights harvest daylight and reduce the amount of energy required to light the store by up to 75 percent daily. LED lighting in the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. The concrete flooring is made with recycled materials and reduces the need for chemical cleaners. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
The store is continuing its support of the area by giving $8,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation to local organizations. That support includes grants to Family Service of Montgomery County as well as to several West Norriton groups including the Little League, police department and fire department.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., May 13
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Five associates who were working for the store at its original opening in 2001 will cut the ribbon to officially open the expanded store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
NORRISTOWN, Pa., May 8, 2009 – The wait is over for residents in Norristown eager to see their Walmart at 650 S. Trooper Road bring savings to local shoppers on a full line of groceries and a wide assortment of new products and services. The new Walmart is designed to make shopping easy for customers. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays. Walmart also aligned the departments that customers shop most frequently. The pharmacy, for example, is adjacent to food making it easier for customers to pick up their prescriptions while shopping for their groceries. The store will open to customers at 7 a.m., Wednesday, after a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The store originally opened in 2001 in West Norriton Township. The expansion has increased the store’s size by more than 62,000 square feet including a full line of fresh produce, meats, bakery and an expanded electronics department.
“We have a loyal customer base and some have been shopping here since our original opening,” said Store Manager Bill Begley. “We think they’ll love the easy-to-shop layout of the new Walmart and appreciate the savings we offer on the products they are looking for.” The store is among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart store design.
Expanded Walmart Adds 200 New Jobs
The store plans to employ approximately 425 associates, including approximately 200 positions created by the relocation. “Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Begley said. “As a native of Norristown I am proud to bring good jobs with career opportunities our community and neighbors.”
Layout Improves Customer Experience
In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh its stores, its merchandise and its customer experience. The improvements have all come together in the company’s newest stores, such as the Norristown store, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
“The layout of the store is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” said Begley. “By grouping the products that our customers most often purchase including health and beauty and pet supplies, we are making one-stop shopping even easier.”
Lower shelving creates an improved sightline and directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for quickly. Walmart also combined the customer service desk, site to store pick-up location and photo lab in one area near the entrance. Customers now have easy access to these services, as well as associates on hand to help meet their needs.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Norristown store, like all new Walmart stores, includes energy-efficient technology and environmentally friendly features to reduce energy and water consumption and minimize waste. The store’s 150 skylights harvest daylight and reduce the amount of energy required to light the store by up to 75 percent daily. LED lighting in the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. The concrete flooring is made with recycled materials and reduces the need for chemical cleaners. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
The store is continuing its support of the area by giving $8,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation to local organizations. That support includes grants to Family Service of Montgomery County as well as to several West Norriton groups including the Little League, police department and fire department.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., May 13
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Five associates who were working for the store at its original opening in 2001 will cut the ribbon to officially open the expanded store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
Walmart Brings Savings and Convenience to Jacksonville
New Walmart provides 400 jobs
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 13, 2009 – A new Walmart opens this month in Jacksonville, bringing 400 new jobs, savings for local shoppers and an increase in tax revenue to support the area’s economy. Nonprofit organizations will also benefit from the retailer’s ongoing charitable contributions and support for community projects. The Walmart, located at 10251 Shops Lane, will be open to customers at 8:15 a.m., Wednesday, May 20th.
Store Designed to Improve Customer Experience
In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh its stores, merchandising and customer experience. The improvements have all come together in the company’s newest stores, such as the Jacksonville Walmart, with fast service, a friendly shopping experience and clean stores.
The new Walmart features wide aisles, enhanced service and a layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers. Walmart aligned the departments that customers shop most frequently. The pharmacy, for example, is adjacent to food making it easier for customers to pick up their prescriptions while shopping for their groceries.
“The layout of the store is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” said Store Manager Scott Mallatt. “By grouping the products that our customers most often purchase including health and beauty and pet supplies, we are making one-stop shopping even easier.”
A bright interior color palette creates an inviting shopping experience and helps define the store’s merchandise areas. Lower shelving creates an improved sightline and directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for quickly. Walmart also combined the customer service desk, site to store pick-up location and photo lab in one area near the entrance. Customers now have easy access to these services, as well as associates on hand to help meet their needs.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $25,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. The following organizations will each receive $5,000 to support programs that serve the community: Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Florida, Greenland Pines Elementary School and Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. Senior Life Foundation, March of Dimes and the Police Athletic League of Jacksonville will each receive $2,500, and the Creek Side High School Bank and Give Kids the World will receive $1,000. The local Boy Scouts troop will also receive $500.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Jacksonville Walmart, like all new Walmart stores, includes energy-efficient technology and environmentally friendly features to reduce energy and water consumption and minimize waste. The store’s skylights harvest daylight and reduce the amount of energy required to light the store by up to 75 percent daily. LED lighting in the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting.
The cement used in the concrete flooring is made with recycled materials, and the floor’s finish reduces the need for chemical cleaners. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms. The new store also operates a recycling program and will promote sustainable product purchases.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., May 20
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Store Associate Marilyn Prince will perform the national anthem, and members of a local Boy Scouts of America troop will present the colors. Mallatt and other associates will cut the ribbon to the new store.
Walmart Readies Electronics Area with New Products, Features and Technologies
Newly designed aisles and brand areas aim to simplify shopping experience
Bentonville, Ark. (May 19, 2009) – Walmart announced today its plans to add more new products and features to its consumer electronics area across its 3,500 stores. This week, market electronics managers and associates are preparing aisles, adding new signage and bringing out displays for new technologies to help keep customers staying connected, more mobile and enjoying new home entertainment experiences.
As a leading destination for electronics products and savings, Walmart this week takes continued steps forward to enhance its assortment of exciting new products in consumer electronics, while creating an “easy to find,” and fun, shopping experience for all customers.
Details about these new enhancements in Walmart’s Home Entertainment area include:
* New color-coded and branded signage in categories such as gaming, wireless and home office that organize assortment and simplify selection;
* Added assortment in Blu-ray players and movies, including a dedicated hi-definition “sound and sight” area that brings Blu-ray product, and “the experience,” together;
* Expanded assortment in HDTV, with more 1080p and 120HZ product and more sizes;
* An increase of 30% in its wireless product including an expansion and redesign of its Wireless World area, focusing solely on cellular and smart phone products and activation;
* A new display center for laptops allowing customers to touch and experience each unit and compare assortment in brands like HP, Dell, and Toshiba;
* New casing and assortment in portable devices and attachments, from silencing headphones for relaxation to colorful ear buds for the more active user;
* Display areas that showcase new technologies, trends and coming releases in areas like gaming and laptops.
“We know customers really value our ability to bring them the brands they trust, the right level of assortment, and the most affordable prices,” said Gary Severson, senior vice president, Home Entertainment, Walmart. “We want to continue to keep them engaged and inspired, making selection easier, and introducing more technologies that add comfort, fun and quality of life, for themselves and their families.”
Examples of new products and features introduced this week, or coming soon, include:
* $198 Philips Blu-ray Disc Player, in most stores this week;
* Dell’s Studio One 19 All-in-One touch screen desktop, exclusively at Walmart for a limited period, arriving in June;
* Expanded selection in Samsung, Sony, and Vizio, with new 46- and 52-inch models
* Expanded assortment in colorful 11 inch Acer netbooks at $298, in stores this week;
* Sony’s E-Reader portable E-Book (500 stores), extra bass headphones, and noise canceling headphones;
* More colorful and fashionable protectors and attachments for mobile and music items, such as “The Body Glove” to protect touch screen phone ($9.96);
* More cellular phones including the BlackBerry Bold for AT&T, Samsung Instinct s30 for Sprint, expanding distribution of the BlackBerry Storm with Verizon, and very soon introducing the Palm® Pre™ phone with Sprint in select stores.
“We’ve made a number of significant changes in the last three years to raise the bar in our offerings and gain consumer confidence and trust as an electronics destination,” added Severson, “and we have every intention of keeping that pace with continued improvements in service and assortment.”
Bentonville, Ark. (May 19, 2009) – Walmart announced today its plans to add more new products and features to its consumer electronics area across its 3,500 stores. This week, market electronics managers and associates are preparing aisles, adding new signage and bringing out displays for new technologies to help keep customers staying connected, more mobile and enjoying new home entertainment experiences.
As a leading destination for electronics products and savings, Walmart this week takes continued steps forward to enhance its assortment of exciting new products in consumer electronics, while creating an “easy to find,” and fun, shopping experience for all customers.
Details about these new enhancements in Walmart’s Home Entertainment area include:
* New color-coded and branded signage in categories such as gaming, wireless and home office that organize assortment and simplify selection;
* Added assortment in Blu-ray players and movies, including a dedicated hi-definition “sound and sight” area that brings Blu-ray product, and “the experience,” together;
* Expanded assortment in HDTV, with more 1080p and 120HZ product and more sizes;
* An increase of 30% in its wireless product including an expansion and redesign of its Wireless World area, focusing solely on cellular and smart phone products and activation;
* A new display center for laptops allowing customers to touch and experience each unit and compare assortment in brands like HP, Dell, and Toshiba;
* New casing and assortment in portable devices and attachments, from silencing headphones for relaxation to colorful ear buds for the more active user;
* Display areas that showcase new technologies, trends and coming releases in areas like gaming and laptops.
“We know customers really value our ability to bring them the brands they trust, the right level of assortment, and the most affordable prices,” said Gary Severson, senior vice president, Home Entertainment, Walmart. “We want to continue to keep them engaged and inspired, making selection easier, and introducing more technologies that add comfort, fun and quality of life, for themselves and their families.”
Examples of new products and features introduced this week, or coming soon, include:
* $198 Philips Blu-ray Disc Player, in most stores this week;
* Dell’s Studio One 19 All-in-One touch screen desktop, exclusively at Walmart for a limited period, arriving in June;
* Expanded selection in Samsung, Sony, and Vizio, with new 46- and 52-inch models
* Expanded assortment in colorful 11 inch Acer netbooks at $298, in stores this week;
* Sony’s E-Reader portable E-Book (500 stores), extra bass headphones, and noise canceling headphones;
* More colorful and fashionable protectors and attachments for mobile and music items, such as “The Body Glove” to protect touch screen phone ($9.96);
* More cellular phones including the BlackBerry Bold for AT&T, Samsung Instinct s30 for Sprint, expanding distribution of the BlackBerry Storm with Verizon, and very soon introducing the Palm® Pre™ phone with Sprint in select stores.
“We’ve made a number of significant changes in the last three years to raise the bar in our offerings and gain consumer confidence and trust as an electronics destination,” added Severson, “and we have every intention of keeping that pace with continued improvements in service and assortment.”
Monday, May 25, 2009
WALMART MARKET TO BRING ABOUT 90 JOBS TO LARGO
The 42,000-square-foot former Kash n' Karry in southwest Largo has been a sign of the harsh reality of the stark economic times.
But things are looking up for the once-vacant building.
Scheduled to open as a WalMart Neighborhood Market on July 15, the store is seeking potential workers. WalMart is looking to hire at least 90 people to staff the 24-hour, seven-day-a-week grocery store.
A hiring center has been opened nearby at 13819-F Walsingham Road. Applications also can be filled out online. WalMart is hiring full- and part-time workers.
"We are excited to add this WalMart Neighborhood Market to Largo and bring good jobs with career opportunities to the area," said Jimmie Nelson, the store's manager.
Largo Mayor Pat Gerard is also pleased with the presence of the new grocery store.
"In these times, any new thing like that is good," Gerard said. "We are excited that they picked that location and our city."
Located in Barclay Square at Walsingham and Indian Rocks roads, the space was once a Kash n' Karry. When Sweetbay Supermarket purchased the chain, it was closed, said Teresa Brydon, Largo's economic development manager.
"It's going into an existing parcel, and when a business comes and retrofits an existing commercial space, it's very positive," Brydon said.
The first Pinellas County WalMart Neighborhood Market opened in September 2007 on U.S. 19 in Pinellas Park. Another opened in December at N Highland Avenue, just south of Sunset Point Road in Clearwater.
WalMart Neighborhood Markets are generally open 24 hours. The store is a grocery and drugstore with a bakery and deli.
But things are looking up for the once-vacant building.
Scheduled to open as a WalMart Neighborhood Market on July 15, the store is seeking potential workers. WalMart is looking to hire at least 90 people to staff the 24-hour, seven-day-a-week grocery store.
A hiring center has been opened nearby at 13819-F Walsingham Road. Applications also can be filled out online. WalMart is hiring full- and part-time workers.
"We are excited to add this WalMart Neighborhood Market to Largo and bring good jobs with career opportunities to the area," said Jimmie Nelson, the store's manager.
Largo Mayor Pat Gerard is also pleased with the presence of the new grocery store.
"In these times, any new thing like that is good," Gerard said. "We are excited that they picked that location and our city."
Located in Barclay Square at Walsingham and Indian Rocks roads, the space was once a Kash n' Karry. When Sweetbay Supermarket purchased the chain, it was closed, said Teresa Brydon, Largo's economic development manager.
"It's going into an existing parcel, and when a business comes and retrofits an existing commercial space, it's very positive," Brydon said.
The first Pinellas County WalMart Neighborhood Market opened in September 2007 on U.S. 19 in Pinellas Park. Another opened in December at N Highland Avenue, just south of Sunset Point Road in Clearwater.
WalMart Neighborhood Markets are generally open 24 hours. The store is a grocery and drugstore with a bakery and deli.
WalMart Makes Push in Electronics
WalMart Stores(WMT:NYSE) plans to revamp the electronics departments in its U.S. stores this week in a battle with Best Buy(BBY:NYSE) and Amazon.com(AMZN:NYSE) for customers of the closed Circuit City Stores, a report says.
The Wall Street Journal reports the world's biggest retailer will unveil roomier and more interactive electronics displays beginning Monday. The displays will showcase the latest mobile phones and portable computers, and include standalone sections for brands such as Nintendo and Apple(AAPL:NYSE).
"Circuit City's business is up for grabs right now and we expect to get our share," Gary Severson, WalMart's senior vice president of home entertainment, told the Journal.
Circuit City filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November and closed its remaining U.S. stores in March.
The newspaper reports WalMart was expanding its electronics selection before Circuit City collapsed. It has begun carrying more sophisticated products such as Research in Motion's(RIMM:NYSE) Blackberry smart phones and will soon carry Palm's(PALM:NYSE) Pre smart phone despite claims by bloggers the Pre would be a Best Buy retail exclusive, the Journal reports.
WalMart also is adding to the lines of higher-end televisions it carries by offering products from Sony(SNE:NYSE) and Samsung Electronics, and is broadening its array of Blu-ray disc players and movies.
In June, WalMart will start selling Dell's(DELL:NYSE) new Studio One 19 touch-screen computers, the Journal reports.
The Wall Street Journal reports the world's biggest retailer will unveil roomier and more interactive electronics displays beginning Monday. The displays will showcase the latest mobile phones and portable computers, and include standalone sections for brands such as Nintendo and Apple(AAPL:NYSE).
"Circuit City's business is up for grabs right now and we expect to get our share," Gary Severson, WalMart's senior vice president of home entertainment, told the Journal.
Circuit City filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November and closed its remaining U.S. stores in March.
The newspaper reports WalMart was expanding its electronics selection before Circuit City collapsed. It has begun carrying more sophisticated products such as Research in Motion's(RIMM:NYSE) Blackberry smart phones and will soon carry Palm's(PALM:NYSE) Pre smart phone despite claims by bloggers the Pre would be a Best Buy retail exclusive, the Journal reports.
WalMart also is adding to the lines of higher-end televisions it carries by offering products from Sony(SNE:NYSE) and Samsung Electronics, and is broadening its array of Blu-ray disc players and movies.
In June, WalMart will start selling Dell's(DELL:NYSE) new Studio One 19 touch-screen computers, the Journal reports.
Helping neighbors in need
The Salvation Army and McKenna House would like to thank Sam's Club in Concord for helping us to "Stuff the Truck" with food donations on May 7. We were allowed to ask the public to buy and then donate needed items to our food pantry and homeless shelter.
Times are tough for everyone right now, and we have seen an increase in the number of people who use our services. This, in turn, depletes our stock very quickly. We could not help our neighbors without the help of the staff at Sam's or without their wonderful customers, who stepped up and bought the items on our list and then gave them to us.
Also, thank you to those who gave money. It will go to buy food for the pantry.
Times are tough for everyone right now, and we have seen an increase in the number of people who use our services. This, in turn, depletes our stock very quickly. We could not help our neighbors without the help of the staff at Sam's or without their wonderful customers, who stepped up and bought the items on our list and then gave them to us.
Also, thank you to those who gave money. It will go to buy food for the pantry.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Trade official reports Wal-Mart supercenters contribute tax revenue
CHICO A former state commerce official said Tuesday that communities that have seen WalMarts expand into supercenters have benefited by increases in tax revenue.
Lon Hatamiya, who served as the state's Technology Trade and Commerce Department top official from 1999 to 2003, came to that conclusion after studying California-gathered retail sales tax data. Hatamiya indicated the higher retail sales tax revenue was linked to additional shoppers coming to a community or increases in sales at other businesses.
Hatamiya, of Davis, is a director of Navigant Consulting, a certified public accounting firm that advises government and businesses. He studied sales tax revenue from businesses in direct competition with WalMart, such as apparel and drugstores, and those that weren't, such as gas stations, auto dealers and restaurants. For all 21 communities with supercenters, citywide taxable retail sales increased the year after the opening by an average of 15 percent, he said.
His study, done on communities with supercenters opened between 2003 and 2007, also indicated the opening of a supercenter did not wipe out smaller businesses. By studying the number of retail business permits issued, he found business operations increased during the first year everywhere except Palm Desert, Palm Springs and Gilroy. "What's important is this rebuts the common belief that others go out of business. It's the opposite. It attracts business."
The data did not allow him to determine which specific businesses survived and which didn't, only a total number of permits.
In Northern California, business permits increased with opening of Supercenters in Anderson, Marysville and Yuba City, he said. He said in Anderson, the first year after a supercenter opened retail sales tax revenue increased $51.2 million, which was a 37 percent jump. In Yuba City, the sales tax revenue increase was $35 million. Retail sales tax revenue also increased in subsequent years to openings, but not in every community, the study showed. Talking to members of the Chico Chamber of Commerce and Chico Economic Planning Corp., Hatamiya said WalMart paid him to do the study, but said the retail giant did not demand a certain conclusion.
CEPCO paid for Hatamiya's visit, and also released a study in 1999 about taxable sales and Wal-Marts that indicated communities benefited. Saying they were protecting their small businesses, some communities have adopted new policies preventing WalMart from opening supercenters, which generally have a grocery store and wider selection. A proposed expansion of the Chico store has been controversial. "It was an eye-opener to see the benefits brought to a community," Hatamiya said. "Any opportunity to generate increased sales tax benefits you in increased services," he told the group.
Besides new jobs and revenue, WalMart is one of the few retailers growing during tough times, he noted.
Lon Hatamiya, who served as the state's Technology Trade and Commerce Department top official from 1999 to 2003, came to that conclusion after studying California-gathered retail sales tax data. Hatamiya indicated the higher retail sales tax revenue was linked to additional shoppers coming to a community or increases in sales at other businesses.
Hatamiya, of Davis, is a director of Navigant Consulting, a certified public accounting firm that advises government and businesses. He studied sales tax revenue from businesses in direct competition with WalMart, such as apparel and drugstores, and those that weren't, such as gas stations, auto dealers and restaurants. For all 21 communities with supercenters, citywide taxable retail sales increased the year after the opening by an average of 15 percent, he said.
His study, done on communities with supercenters opened between 2003 and 2007, also indicated the opening of a supercenter did not wipe out smaller businesses. By studying the number of retail business permits issued, he found business operations increased during the first year everywhere except Palm Desert, Palm Springs and Gilroy. "What's important is this rebuts the common belief that others go out of business. It's the opposite. It attracts business."
The data did not allow him to determine which specific businesses survived and which didn't, only a total number of permits.
In Northern California, business permits increased with opening of Supercenters in Anderson, Marysville and Yuba City, he said. He said in Anderson, the first year after a supercenter opened retail sales tax revenue increased $51.2 million, which was a 37 percent jump. In Yuba City, the sales tax revenue increase was $35 million. Retail sales tax revenue also increased in subsequent years to openings, but not in every community, the study showed. Talking to members of the Chico Chamber of Commerce and Chico Economic Planning Corp., Hatamiya said WalMart paid him to do the study, but said the retail giant did not demand a certain conclusion.
CEPCO paid for Hatamiya's visit, and also released a study in 1999 about taxable sales and Wal-Marts that indicated communities benefited. Saying they were protecting their small businesses, some communities have adopted new policies preventing WalMart from opening supercenters, which generally have a grocery store and wider selection. A proposed expansion of the Chico store has been controversial. "It was an eye-opener to see the benefits brought to a community," Hatamiya said. "Any opportunity to generate increased sales tax benefits you in increased services," he told the group.
Besides new jobs and revenue, WalMart is one of the few retailers growing during tough times, he noted.
Sam's Club® and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Join Forces to Fight For Small Businesses
Organizations Aim to Extend Reach and Support to Millions of Small Business Members
BENTONVILLE, Ark., May 12 , 2009— Sam’s Club, the nation’s leading small business membership warehouse club and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce announced today at America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C. details of joint member benefits program that will broaden both organizations ability to be advocates for small business, lower their costs and help them succeed.
“The face of small business is evolving as is the role of large corporations and government to bring about health care reform, tax, energy and other policy solutions, “said Brian Cornell, Sam’s Club President and CEO in his remarks during the U.S. Chamber Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards Luncheon honoring the nation’s top small business owners. “We understand the challenges small business owners face in today’s environment. We want to remove the barriers to their success by investing in and working with organizations like the U.S. Chamber, which have a proven track record of demonstrating thought leadership as well as change.”
As part of the two year agreement, Sam’s Club will help to sponsor more than a dozen small business events with local chamber offices to make resources and best practices available to small business owners and operators to ensure their success and growth. Sam’s Club will launch a cost savings toolkit on the Chamber website to help small businesses better manage and boost their bottom-line and sponsor the U.S. Chamber Small Business of the Year Award. More than half of this year’s winners are Sam’s Club Business Members. In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has appointed Catherine Corley, vice president, small business insights and marketing at Sam’s Club to the U.S. Chamber Council of Small of Business.
This partnership is going to be a big help to our small business members,” said Giovanni Coratolo, Chamber vice president for small business policy. “At a time when every dollar counts, we are thrilled to have another way to help small businesses cut costs and improve their bottom lines.”
One of the most tangible and immediate benefits of the agreement calls for U.S. Chamber of Commerce members to receive a $10 gift card and complimentary cost comparison by Sam’s Club. Chamber members who join or renew their business membership at Sam’s Club will receive the $10 gift card toward a purchase in club or online.
Sam’s Club estimates more than 600,000 small business owners or their employees walk through its doors everyday. In addition to products, Sam’s Club also offers small business members access to affordable health insurance and other services such, as merchant credit card processing solutions and time-saving solutions including online ordering through Click n’ Pull.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., May 12 , 2009— Sam’s Club, the nation’s leading small business membership warehouse club and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce announced today at America’s Small Business Summit in Washington, D.C. details of joint member benefits program that will broaden both organizations ability to be advocates for small business, lower their costs and help them succeed.
“The face of small business is evolving as is the role of large corporations and government to bring about health care reform, tax, energy and other policy solutions, “said Brian Cornell, Sam’s Club President and CEO in his remarks during the U.S. Chamber Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards Luncheon honoring the nation’s top small business owners. “We understand the challenges small business owners face in today’s environment. We want to remove the barriers to their success by investing in and working with organizations like the U.S. Chamber, which have a proven track record of demonstrating thought leadership as well as change.”
As part of the two year agreement, Sam’s Club will help to sponsor more than a dozen small business events with local chamber offices to make resources and best practices available to small business owners and operators to ensure their success and growth. Sam’s Club will launch a cost savings toolkit on the Chamber website to help small businesses better manage and boost their bottom-line and sponsor the U.S. Chamber Small Business of the Year Award. More than half of this year’s winners are Sam’s Club Business Members. In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has appointed Catherine Corley, vice president, small business insights and marketing at Sam’s Club to the U.S. Chamber Council of Small of Business.
This partnership is going to be a big help to our small business members,” said Giovanni Coratolo, Chamber vice president for small business policy. “At a time when every dollar counts, we are thrilled to have another way to help small businesses cut costs and improve their bottom lines.”
One of the most tangible and immediate benefits of the agreement calls for U.S. Chamber of Commerce members to receive a $10 gift card and complimentary cost comparison by Sam’s Club. Chamber members who join or renew their business membership at Sam’s Club will receive the $10 gift card toward a purchase in club or online.
Sam’s Club estimates more than 600,000 small business owners or their employees walk through its doors everyday. In addition to products, Sam’s Club also offers small business members access to affordable health insurance and other services such, as merchant credit card processing solutions and time-saving solutions including online ordering through Click n’ Pull.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
WalMart to Nearly Double Solar Energy Use in California
Expansion expected to generate energy equal to powering more than 1300 homes annually
“Increasing the use of solar energy is the right thing to do for the environment and makes tremendous business sense, especially in these economic conditions,” said Kimberly Sentovich, WalMart’s California regional general manager. “Thanks to Governor Schwarzenegger’s leadership, California is an excellent environment for us to grow our investment in renewable energy and help create more green jobs for America. WalMart is excited to continue collaborating with our partner BP Solar on expanding our solar footprint.”
“All over the state we are harnessing the power of the famous California sun and creating energy that is pollution free,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This project is all about taking bold action so we can see solar panels on commercial rooftops all across California while putting people to work. Today’s action helps prove that even in an economic downturn, it is possible to get serious about clean, renewable energy.”
“WalMart is a leader in implementing cost-effective clean energy solutions,” said Christopher Lau, World Resources Institute’s California Green Power Group manager. “With this commitment to expand the use of solar power, WalMart demonstrates that businesses can pursue long-term sustainability goals during tough economic times to the benefit of the environment, customers, and bottom line.”
This latest series of projects is expected to create about 130 jobs, including engineering, design, and installer technician jobs. Smaller numbers of workers will be engaged during the periods leading up to and following peak construction.
WalMart is committed to expanding its solar presence in California. As construction nears completion on this group of 10 to 20 sites, WalMart will evaluate the feasibility of expanding the program to additional sites. The company will take into account a variety of factors, including available locations, economic conditions, energy prices, as well as local, state and federal renewable energy policies and programs.
WalMart will continue learning from its renewable projects to find additional ways to achieve its goal of being supplied by 100 percent renewable energy. In November 2008, Wal-Mart announced a major purchase of wind energy that will supply up to 15 percent of the retailer’s total energy load in approximately 350 Texas stores and other facilities. In Puerto Rico, the company is planning to outfit up to five stores with solar panels this year, and expects the project to expand to 22 stores in the next five years. Additionally, WalMart de Mexico will eliminate approximately 140 tons of CO2 emissions annually through the completed installation of more than 1000 solar panels on the roof of the Bodega Aurrera Aguascalientes.
WalMart’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy projects is helping the retailer build a more diversified energy portfolio and create more opportunities for advancements in clean energy through research and innovations.
- energy per year - the equivalent of powering more than 2,600 homes;
- producing more than 22,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year - the equivalent of taking more than 4,000 cars off the road;
- Provide 20 to 30 percent of each location’s total electric energy needs.
“Increasing the use of solar energy is the right thing to do for the environment and makes tremendous business sense, especially in these economic conditions,” said Kimberly Sentovich, WalMart’s California regional general manager. “Thanks to Governor Schwarzenegger’s leadership, California is an excellent environment for us to grow our investment in renewable energy and help create more green jobs for America. WalMart is excited to continue collaborating with our partner BP Solar on expanding our solar footprint.”
“All over the state we are harnessing the power of the famous California sun and creating energy that is pollution free,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This project is all about taking bold action so we can see solar panels on commercial rooftops all across California while putting people to work. Today’s action helps prove that even in an economic downturn, it is possible to get serious about clean, renewable energy.”
“WalMart is a leader in implementing cost-effective clean energy solutions,” said Christopher Lau, World Resources Institute’s California Green Power Group manager. “With this commitment to expand the use of solar power, WalMart demonstrates that businesses can pursue long-term sustainability goals during tough economic times to the benefit of the environment, customers, and bottom line.”
This latest series of projects is expected to create about 130 jobs, including engineering, design, and installer technician jobs. Smaller numbers of workers will be engaged during the periods leading up to and following peak construction.
WalMart is committed to expanding its solar presence in California. As construction nears completion on this group of 10 to 20 sites, WalMart will evaluate the feasibility of expanding the program to additional sites. The company will take into account a variety of factors, including available locations, economic conditions, energy prices, as well as local, state and federal renewable energy policies and programs.
WalMart will continue learning from its renewable projects to find additional ways to achieve its goal of being supplied by 100 percent renewable energy. In November 2008, Wal-Mart announced a major purchase of wind energy that will supply up to 15 percent of the retailer’s total energy load in approximately 350 Texas stores and other facilities. In Puerto Rico, the company is planning to outfit up to five stores with solar panels this year, and expects the project to expand to 22 stores in the next five years. Additionally, WalMart de Mexico will eliminate approximately 140 tons of CO2 emissions annually through the completed installation of more than 1000 solar panels on the roof of the Bodega Aurrera Aguascalientes.
WalMart’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy projects is helping the retailer build a more diversified energy portfolio and create more opportunities for advancements in clean energy through research and innovations.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
WalMart Issues 2009 Annual Report to Shareholders
April 20, 2009 – Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) today issued its 2009 Annual Report to Shareholders, an executive summary of its 2009 Global Sustainability Report, and its 2009 annual proxy statement, announcing the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting to be held at 7 a.m. on June 5 at Bud Walton Arena on the campus of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Shareholders must be owners of record of Wal-Mart common stock as of the close of business on April 9, 2009 to vote at the 2009 annual shareholders’ meeting.
“Wal-Mart’s performance last year would be considered strong at any time and for any retailer, and certainly during one of the most difficult global economies in decades,” wrote Mike Duke, in his first letter to shareholders since becoming president and chief executive officer Feb. 1.
“Our U.S. stores are delivering faster checkouts, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner presentations,” he continued. “We are on the move internationally and today have more stores in more markets. People who have never shopped with us previously are now loyal customers. Sam’s continues to show the distinct value of club membership.”
Wal-Mart created 33,000 jobs in the United States last year, in addition to thousands more in markets outside the country.
“These good jobs offer competitive wages and benefits and the opportunity to advance,” he wrote. “We plan to create tens of thousands of jobs again this year.”
Duke reiterated Wal-Mart’s commitment to environmental sustainability, which he called a permanent part of the company’s culture, helping Wal-Mart reduce waste, lower costs and provide savings to customers.
“There will be no part of this Company anywhere in the world that does not contribute to making Wal-Mart more sustainable,” he wrote.
In fact, Wal-Mart reduced the number of annual reports printed from more than 2.3 million last year to approximately 1.1 million this year by inviting shareholders to receive the report electronically. This reduced the company’s requirement for paper, ink and fuel needed to ship the reports.
Wal-Mart also issued an executive summary of its 2009 Global Sustainability Report, highlighting the company’s economic, environmental and social performance. The full report will be available online by the end of July.
Separately today, the company also announced that Wal-Mart board member and former President and Chief Executive Officer David Glass will retire from the board on June 5. Glass joined Wal-Mart in 1976, later succeeding the company’s founder Sam Walton as president and CEO, serving in that role from 1988 until retiring in 2000. Glass has been a member of Wal-Mart’s board since 1977.
“Wal-Mart’s performance last year would be considered strong at any time and for any retailer, and certainly during one of the most difficult global economies in decades,” wrote Mike Duke, in his first letter to shareholders since becoming president and chief executive officer Feb. 1.
“Our U.S. stores are delivering faster checkouts, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner presentations,” he continued. “We are on the move internationally and today have more stores in more markets. People who have never shopped with us previously are now loyal customers. Sam’s continues to show the distinct value of club membership.”
Wal-Mart created 33,000 jobs in the United States last year, in addition to thousands more in markets outside the country.
“These good jobs offer competitive wages and benefits and the opportunity to advance,” he wrote. “We plan to create tens of thousands of jobs again this year.”
Duke reiterated Wal-Mart’s commitment to environmental sustainability, which he called a permanent part of the company’s culture, helping Wal-Mart reduce waste, lower costs and provide savings to customers.
“There will be no part of this Company anywhere in the world that does not contribute to making Wal-Mart more sustainable,” he wrote.
In fact, Wal-Mart reduced the number of annual reports printed from more than 2.3 million last year to approximately 1.1 million this year by inviting shareholders to receive the report electronically. This reduced the company’s requirement for paper, ink and fuel needed to ship the reports.
Wal-Mart also issued an executive summary of its 2009 Global Sustainability Report, highlighting the company’s economic, environmental and social performance. The full report will be available online by the end of July.
Separately today, the company also announced that Wal-Mart board member and former President and Chief Executive Officer David Glass will retire from the board on June 5. Glass joined Wal-Mart in 1976, later succeeding the company’s founder Sam Walton as president and CEO, serving in that role from 1988 until retiring in 2000. Glass has been a member of Wal-Mart’s board since 1977.
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