March 31, 2009 – The WalMart Foundation donated $175,000 to United Way of Kentucky to expand access to government and social services and to help to establish a statewide 2-1-1 system. The grant was made through the WalMart Foundation’s State Giving Program and will help United Way of Kentucky fulfill its mission to improve the health and welfare of all Kentuckians.
United Way of Kentucky provides training and technical assistance to member United Ways working to promote the organization throughout the state, manages the Kentucky Employees Charitable Campaign and coordinates crisis response in times of emergencies. There are currently 22 local United Ways partnered with United Way of Kentucky to help Kentuckians build stronger, healthier and safer communities.
“We strive to help our customers and the people in our surrounding communities live better,” said Jason Wetzel, Senior Manager Public Affairs for WalMart. “With this donation to the United Way, WalMart can help support Kentuckians who are working together to give back and improve communities across the state.”
There are 22 counties in Kentucky currently with access to 2-1-1 information and referral number, an easy-to-remember three-digit dialing code assigned by the Federal Communications Commission. It streamlines access to health and human services and volunteer opportunities. United Way of Kentucky is working with organizations, including local United Ways, established call centers, community leaders and telecommunications companies, to bring 2-1-1 to individuals in need all across Kentucky.
“Expanding access to 2-1-1 is a priority for United Way of Kentucky and our 22 local partners,” said Terry Tolan, President of United Way of Kentucky. “This is an incredible opportunity for United Ways to expand access to services at the local level and continue our efforts to bring 2-1-1 to individuals in need all across Kentucky.”
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 supports initiatives focused on enhancing opportunities in education, job skills training, sustainability and health. In 2007, WalMart, Sam’s Club and the WalMart Foundation gave $296 million to communities across the United States.
About WalMart Stores, Inc. in Kentucky (NYSE: WMT)
* Contributed more than $4.6 million to Kentucky organizations and local causes in cash and in-kind donations in 2007.
* Kentucky philanthropic contributions totaled nearly $6.9 million in 2007.
* The largest private employer in Kentucky.
* More than 33,000 Kentuckians are employed by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. The average wage for regular, full-time hourly associates in Kentucky is $11.28 per hour (Walmart Discount Stores, Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets). (March 2009)
About United Way of Kentucky
United Way of Kentucky is the voluntary association of 22 United Ways from across the Commonwealth. Serving local communities since 1984, United Way of Kentucky builds local United Way capacity and strengthens a statewide network to meet the human services needs of all Kentuckians. As the largest non-governmental funder of services to children and families in Kentucky, United Way has a long history of commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens of all ages throughout the Commonwealth.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Walmart Great Value brand
Retailer Transforms its Great Value Brand with More Products, Consumer Friendly Packaging and Improved Quality
Thursday, March 26, 2009
WalMart Executive to Speak at Conference
March 25, 2009 - WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) will make a presentation during the 2009 Morgan Stanley Arizona Field Trip at approximately 3:00 p.m. CDT, Wednesday, April 1. Bill Simon, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Walmart U.S., will provide an overview on the operations of its U.S. super centers.
A live webcast of the presentation at the conference and question-and-answer session will be available through the link provided on walmartstores.com/investors. The presentation slides will be available as well. It will be archived for one year on the company’s Web site.
WalMart Stores, Inc. operates Walmart discount stores, super centers, Neighborhood Markets and Sam’s Club locations in the United States. The company also operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. The company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WMT.
A live webcast of the presentation at the conference and question-and-answer session will be available through the link provided on walmartstores.com/investors. The presentation slides will be available as well. It will be archived for one year on the company’s Web site.
WalMart Stores, Inc. operates Walmart discount stores, super centers, Neighborhood Markets and Sam’s Club locations in the United States. The company also operates in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. The company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WMT.
Walmart expands Home Portfolio with Launch of New Brand
March 25, 2009 – Walmart today announced the launch of Your Zone, a new home furnishings collection for teens now arriving in stores nationwide and on Walmart.com. The introduction of the teen brand is another way Walmart delivers on its promise to help people save money so that they can live better.
“Your Zone provides a platform for teens to create their own space and express their evolving personality, for less,” said Linda Hefner, executive vice president of Home at Walmart. “The Your Zone collection further strengthens our branded product offering. Teens love the fun products, and Moms love the unbeatable prices.”
Bedding and furnishings designed to be versatile and interactive will inspire teens to create a living space uniquely their own. Bedding is available in bright, fun patterns and reversible solids, and includes comforter sets priced from $28 to $40, sheet sets from $12 to $24, and window treatments for under $15. Interchangeable rugs, pillows and throws are also available to personalize the look, along with bulletin boards, display shelves, and other accessories. Furniture and lounge seating will arrive in stores in late spring to round out the collection.
Your Zone is the latest addition to Walmart’s growing Home proprietary brand portfolio, which includes Better Homes and Gardens, Canopy, and MainStays.
“Your Zone provides a platform for teens to create their own space and express their evolving personality, for less,” said Linda Hefner, executive vice president of Home at Walmart. “The Your Zone collection further strengthens our branded product offering. Teens love the fun products, and Moms love the unbeatable prices.”
Bedding and furnishings designed to be versatile and interactive will inspire teens to create a living space uniquely their own. Bedding is available in bright, fun patterns and reversible solids, and includes comforter sets priced from $28 to $40, sheet sets from $12 to $24, and window treatments for under $15. Interchangeable rugs, pillows and throws are also available to personalize the look, along with bulletin boards, display shelves, and other accessories. Furniture and lounge seating will arrive in stores in late spring to round out the collection.
Your Zone is the latest addition to Walmart’s growing Home proprietary brand portfolio, which includes Better Homes and Gardens, Canopy, and MainStays.
President Obama Meets Children's Miracle Network "Champions" from Around the Country
Children’s Miracle Network, an international non-profit that raises funds for children’s hospitals in the United States, visited the White House today with 53 very special ambassadors – young “Champions” who are living testaments to the medical care being provided at Children’s Miracle Network hospitals across the country.
President Barack Obama met with a child from every state who is part of Champions Across America presented by Walmart and Sam’s Club. After spending time with the Champions, President Obama invited the Champions and their siblings to play on the playground on the South Lawn.
Champions Across America raises awareness for the 17 million children who are treated each year at 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. The program designates a Champion child in every state who has battled a serious illness or injury. The 2009 Champions have braved illnesses such as brittle bone disease, brain tumors, leukemia and cerebral palsy, and survived car accidents and plane crashes.
“The Champions Across America program has been raising awareness about the importance of children’s hospitals for the past 13 years,” said Scott Burt, president and CEO, Children's Miracle Network. “It’s always a privilege to be at the White House and we hope that President Obama was inspired by the children he met today.”
In addition to the White House visit, the Champions had the opportunity to visit with members of Congress during a luncheon at Capitol Hill where Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) addressed the group.
“Children’s hospitals across the country are literally saving millions of lives each year, and I appreciate these young and brave Children’s Miracle Network Champions taking the time to come to Washington to represent children across America who are suffering from many serious medical conditions,” said Senator Hatch. “These Champions are a true inspiration to all.”
Joining the Champions were Miss America 2009 Katie Stam and country music star Mark Wills. “One of Miss America’s most important and most rewarding duties is to serve as the official Goodwill Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network,” said Stam. “Being able to get to know each of these Champions on a personal level has connected me forever to them and their families. I look forward to visiting their hospitals and helping them raise money throughout the year.”
“Over the past two decades, Children’s Miracle Network, its hospitals and especially their patients have found a very special place in the hearts of Walmart and Sam’s Club associates,” said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. “We have been inspired by the Children’s Miracle Network Champions, and as they bring their stories of courage and determination to our nation’s capitol, we hope that others will be inspired to support the work of children’s hospitals.”
WalMart’s support for the Children’s Miracle Network began in 1987. Since then, Walmart and Sam’s Club associates, customers and members have raised and contributed more than $460 million for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals.
President Barack Obama met with a child from every state who is part of Champions Across America presented by Walmart and Sam’s Club. After spending time with the Champions, President Obama invited the Champions and their siblings to play on the playground on the South Lawn.
Champions Across America raises awareness for the 17 million children who are treated each year at 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. The program designates a Champion child in every state who has battled a serious illness or injury. The 2009 Champions have braved illnesses such as brittle bone disease, brain tumors, leukemia and cerebral palsy, and survived car accidents and plane crashes.
“The Champions Across America program has been raising awareness about the importance of children’s hospitals for the past 13 years,” said Scott Burt, president and CEO, Children's Miracle Network. “It’s always a privilege to be at the White House and we hope that President Obama was inspired by the children he met today.”
In addition to the White House visit, the Champions had the opportunity to visit with members of Congress during a luncheon at Capitol Hill where Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) addressed the group.
“Children’s hospitals across the country are literally saving millions of lives each year, and I appreciate these young and brave Children’s Miracle Network Champions taking the time to come to Washington to represent children across America who are suffering from many serious medical conditions,” said Senator Hatch. “These Champions are a true inspiration to all.”
Joining the Champions were Miss America 2009 Katie Stam and country music star Mark Wills. “One of Miss America’s most important and most rewarding duties is to serve as the official Goodwill Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network,” said Stam. “Being able to get to know each of these Champions on a personal level has connected me forever to them and their families. I look forward to visiting their hospitals and helping them raise money throughout the year.”
“Over the past two decades, Children’s Miracle Network, its hospitals and especially their patients have found a very special place in the hearts of Walmart and Sam’s Club associates,” said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. “We have been inspired by the Children’s Miracle Network Champions, and as they bring their stories of courage and determination to our nation’s capitol, we hope that others will be inspired to support the work of children’s hospitals.”
WalMart’s support for the Children’s Miracle Network began in 1987. Since then, Walmart and Sam’s Club associates, customers and members have raised and contributed more than $460 million for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals.
WalMart lends muscle to health reform
WalMart is ramping up its Washington activity to push for comprehensive health care reform, and the world's largest retailer says it is ready to use its economic muscle to get out in front and influence the discussion.
"We're willing to take a stand independently and not just do it through our associations," said Linda Dillman, the retail giant's executive vice president of benefits, who was in town last week with a posse of Wal-Mart employees bending ears on Capitol Hill.
Long a target of complaints from labor, environmental and health care activists, Wal-Mart has been trying to rehabilitate its reputation in recent years by going green in its stores and becoming more employee-friendly. For instance, the company has begun offering employees a broader range of low-cost insurance options and, as part of its health care reform campaign, is pushing for greater use of electronic medical records - and helping doctors pay for the upgrade.
The company began its congressional outreach last summer with regular Washington visits, and its officials and employees have dropped in on about 75 lawmakers' offices since then. Chief Executive Mike Duke has talked with both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, according to Dillman. And last week, Dillman gave a keynote speech to the National Business Group on Health, which represents large employers in the health care debate.
To introduce themselves to policymakers, Wal-Mart executives explain how the company has provided better health care to its 1.4 million employees by offering plans that cost between $5 and $200 per month and provide a range of coverage. The expanded options boosted by 10 percent the number of employees enrolled, Dillman said, and now a little over half of Wal-Mart's employees are covered.
"We're doing our share to offer a good plan, an inexpensive plan to our associates so they'll take that option," she said.
Even the Service Employees International Union, which has had sharp differences with Wal-Mart in the past, has nice things to say.
"As the largest private corporation, they do have the ability to set a standard to providing good jobs with good health care," said SEIU spokeswoman Lori Lodes. "Right now they are at the table, and they have a very strong commitment to reforming our health care system."
Wal-Mart and SEIU are partners in a coalition of business and labor groups pushing for better health care.
Wal-Mart has been criticized in the past because many of its employees and their families were uninsured or covered by government-provided health insurance. But Dillman said only 3 percent of the company's employees are now on state assistance.
The company is also pushing for increased use of electronic medical records. Wal-Mart recently announced it would offer a health information technology package to doctors for $25,000 - about half the price of technology now on the market - through its Sam's Club warehouses. The move comes on the heels of the $19 billion Congress approved in the stimulus bill to help doctors move to electronic records.
Small-business voice gets louder
A small-business advocacy group is hawking a message that's not normally heard on Capitol Hill: Small-business owners support health care reform, even though it might require them to offer insurance or pay into the system.
Small Business Majority was founded four years ago with a simple goal, according to its website, "solving the single-biggest problem facing America's 27 million small businesses: affordable and accessible health care." And its chief executive, John Arensmeyer, says research and polling shows that small-business owners are willing to be part of a solution that requires small business to play or pay.
"We're trying to make sure that policymakers understand how critical getting health care reform is for small business and how our health care crisis is killing small business," Arensmeyer said. "Most small business is willing and prepared to be part of a solution that involves shared responsibility of all stakeholders."
That message runs counter to the National Federation of Independent Business, which opposes a play-or-pay model. NFIB has been viewed for decades as the voice of small business in Washington.
And that's part of the reason Arensmeyer said he launched his group.
"I ran a business for many years, and it didn't seem to me they were representing much of what I was seeing day to day," he said, noting that NFIB opposed health care reform in the early 1990s.
Arensmeyer said his nonprofit, nonpartisan group comes without ideological baggage and has positions backed up by data. The group has nine staff members, and its approximately $1 million budget is funded by foundations, he said.
NFIB spokeswoman Stephanie Cathcart said her group's surveys and polling show small businesses oppose a play-or-pay system.
"We oppose an employer mandate, and [play or pay] generally is the same as a tax on business," she said. "It's a job killer."
And she said that NFIB, now in its sixth decade, also has been making a data-driven case against play or pay.
"We've always been the voice of small business. We've always taken a research process that polls beyond our membership," she said.
A common enemy
When it comes to health care reform, there has been a rift on the left between the single-payer and public-private advocates, so last week offered a rare opportunity to see both sides coming together in common cause: to bash insurance companies.
The two sides teamed up to protest a policy forum at a Washington Ritz-Carlton sponsored by America's Health Insurance Plans, a national association representing more than 1,300 companies that provide health insurance.
But don't expect a marriage anytime soon between the single-payer groups, which believe reforms short of abolishing health insurance companies will fail, and public-private supporters, which are pushing for tighter controls on insurance companies and the creation of a public insurance plan option.
"I'd say it was a concurrent event. It doesn't mean there was any kind of merger there," said single-payer advocate Chuck Idelson, spokesman for the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee, the nation's largest nurses union.
Public-private advocate Jacki Schechner of Health Care for America Now put it another way: "Let's just say that if we were in a relationship, our Facebook status would be, 'It's complicated,'" she joked.
As for the insurance industry?
"We were really pleased that our policy conference brought people together from across the spectrum for a productive policy discussion," AHIP spokesman Mike Tuffin said, noting that Republican Sen. Orrin G. Hatch and President Barack Obama's budget director, Peter Orszag, both attended.
"We're willing to take a stand independently and not just do it through our associations," said Linda Dillman, the retail giant's executive vice president of benefits, who was in town last week with a posse of Wal-Mart employees bending ears on Capitol Hill.
Long a target of complaints from labor, environmental and health care activists, Wal-Mart has been trying to rehabilitate its reputation in recent years by going green in its stores and becoming more employee-friendly. For instance, the company has begun offering employees a broader range of low-cost insurance options and, as part of its health care reform campaign, is pushing for greater use of electronic medical records - and helping doctors pay for the upgrade.
The company began its congressional outreach last summer with regular Washington visits, and its officials and employees have dropped in on about 75 lawmakers' offices since then. Chief Executive Mike Duke has talked with both House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, according to Dillman. And last week, Dillman gave a keynote speech to the National Business Group on Health, which represents large employers in the health care debate.
To introduce themselves to policymakers, Wal-Mart executives explain how the company has provided better health care to its 1.4 million employees by offering plans that cost between $5 and $200 per month and provide a range of coverage. The expanded options boosted by 10 percent the number of employees enrolled, Dillman said, and now a little over half of Wal-Mart's employees are covered.
"We're doing our share to offer a good plan, an inexpensive plan to our associates so they'll take that option," she said.
Even the Service Employees International Union, which has had sharp differences with Wal-Mart in the past, has nice things to say.
"As the largest private corporation, they do have the ability to set a standard to providing good jobs with good health care," said SEIU spokeswoman Lori Lodes. "Right now they are at the table, and they have a very strong commitment to reforming our health care system."
Wal-Mart and SEIU are partners in a coalition of business and labor groups pushing for better health care.
Wal-Mart has been criticized in the past because many of its employees and their families were uninsured or covered by government-provided health insurance. But Dillman said only 3 percent of the company's employees are now on state assistance.
The company is also pushing for increased use of electronic medical records. Wal-Mart recently announced it would offer a health information technology package to doctors for $25,000 - about half the price of technology now on the market - through its Sam's Club warehouses. The move comes on the heels of the $19 billion Congress approved in the stimulus bill to help doctors move to electronic records.
Small-business voice gets louder
A small-business advocacy group is hawking a message that's not normally heard on Capitol Hill: Small-business owners support health care reform, even though it might require them to offer insurance or pay into the system.
Small Business Majority was founded four years ago with a simple goal, according to its website, "solving the single-biggest problem facing America's 27 million small businesses: affordable and accessible health care." And its chief executive, John Arensmeyer, says research and polling shows that small-business owners are willing to be part of a solution that requires small business to play or pay.
"We're trying to make sure that policymakers understand how critical getting health care reform is for small business and how our health care crisis is killing small business," Arensmeyer said. "Most small business is willing and prepared to be part of a solution that involves shared responsibility of all stakeholders."
That message runs counter to the National Federation of Independent Business, which opposes a play-or-pay model. NFIB has been viewed for decades as the voice of small business in Washington.
And that's part of the reason Arensmeyer said he launched his group.
"I ran a business for many years, and it didn't seem to me they were representing much of what I was seeing day to day," he said, noting that NFIB opposed health care reform in the early 1990s.
Arensmeyer said his nonprofit, nonpartisan group comes without ideological baggage and has positions backed up by data. The group has nine staff members, and its approximately $1 million budget is funded by foundations, he said.
NFIB spokeswoman Stephanie Cathcart said her group's surveys and polling show small businesses oppose a play-or-pay system.
"We oppose an employer mandate, and [play or pay] generally is the same as a tax on business," she said. "It's a job killer."
And she said that NFIB, now in its sixth decade, also has been making a data-driven case against play or pay.
"We've always been the voice of small business. We've always taken a research process that polls beyond our membership," she said.
A common enemy
When it comes to health care reform, there has been a rift on the left between the single-payer and public-private advocates, so last week offered a rare opportunity to see both sides coming together in common cause: to bash insurance companies.
The two sides teamed up to protest a policy forum at a Washington Ritz-Carlton sponsored by America's Health Insurance Plans, a national association representing more than 1,300 companies that provide health insurance.
But don't expect a marriage anytime soon between the single-payer groups, which believe reforms short of abolishing health insurance companies will fail, and public-private supporters, which are pushing for tighter controls on insurance companies and the creation of a public insurance plan option.
"I'd say it was a concurrent event. It doesn't mean there was any kind of merger there," said single-payer advocate Chuck Idelson, spokesman for the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee, the nation's largest nurses union.
Public-private advocate Jacki Schechner of Health Care for America Now put it another way: "Let's just say that if we were in a relationship, our Facebook status would be, 'It's complicated,'" she joked.
As for the insurance industry?
"We were really pleased that our policy conference brought people together from across the spectrum for a productive policy discussion," AHIP spokesman Mike Tuffin said, noting that Republican Sen. Orrin G. Hatch and President Barack Obama's budget director, Peter Orszag, both attended.
Monday, March 23, 2009
WalMart hourly staff get billions in thanks
WalMart Stores Inc. is awarding roughly $2 billion (U.S.) to its hourly employees at American locations through financial incentives, including $933.6 million in bonuses distributed yesterday.
About a million employees will share in the windfall.
The world's largest retailer announced earlier it had gained market share by emphasizing low prices amid a recession.
In a memo to employees obtained by Reuters, CEO Mike Duke itemized the shower of gratitude: $933.6 million in bonuses, $788.8 million in profit sharing and retirement plan contributions, millions of dollars in merchandise discounts and contributions to its employee stock purchase plan.
"While economic challenges forced others to step back, we moved forward," Duke stated in the memo.
Duke said WalMart now needs to "accelerate and broaden all of our efforts."
About a million employees will share in the windfall.
The world's largest retailer announced earlier it had gained market share by emphasizing low prices amid a recession.
In a memo to employees obtained by Reuters, CEO Mike Duke itemized the shower of gratitude: $933.6 million in bonuses, $788.8 million in profit sharing and retirement plan contributions, millions of dollars in merchandise discounts and contributions to its employee stock purchase plan.
"While economic challenges forced others to step back, we moved forward," Duke stated in the memo.
Duke said WalMart now needs to "accelerate and broaden all of our efforts."
WalMart awards $2 billion to U.S. hourly employees
NEW YORK - At a time when many companies have curtailed bonuses and merit raises, WalMart Stores Inc. (wmt) said Thursday it's awarding about $2 billion to its U.S. hourly associates through bonuses, profit sharing and 401K contributions. The world's largest retailer has outpaced its rivals with its low-price message that clicks with budget-conscious shoppers, analysts have said. WalMart is the No. 2 best performer in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, down 1.5% in the past 12 months compared with the 39% drop in the Dow.
Sam's Club Introduces Second Fair Trade Certified Wine
Solombra Reserva Available in Sam’s Club Locations Nationwide
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 16, 2009—Sam’s Club continues its commitment to Simple Steps to Saving Green™ and sustainability with the addition of a second Fair Trade Certified™ wine in locations nationwide. Solombra Reserva, produced and bottled by Argentina’s La RioJana Cooperative, is available at Sam’s Club as a, Merlot and Pinot Grigio. Other varietals including a Cabernet Sauvignon are expected to follow. This is the second Fair Trade Certified wine Sam’s Club has introduced and is one of only a handful to receive this status since 2008, the inaugural year of the groundbreaking Fair Trade Wine certification program in the U.S.
Solombra Reserva earns its name from the combination of the Spanish words "Sol" (meaning sun) and "Sombra" (meaning shadow), therefore defining the essential balance of light and darkness. This balance is not only necessary to create its elegant, full-bodied, ripe and aromatic Merlot, while the Pinot Grigio is fresh and light with citrus, apple notes and a lingering finish. The symbolic namesake represents the primary tenants on which Fair Trade is based – the balance of equality, fair prices, direct trade and environmental stewardship through sustainable practices.
“We are excited to be expanding our offering of Fair Trade Certified wines with the introduction of Solombra Reserva,” said Dex McCreary, senior merchandise director, wine and spirits, Sam’s Club. “We believe this wine, a result of collaboration between Sam’s Club and La RioJana, is a stellar representation of the emerging wine region, and Argentina’s overall reputation for world-class wines.”
Workers participating in Fair Trade Certified programs are guaranteed a fair price for their goods based on an analysis of the cost of the living in their area that will allow them to lead their lives with dignity and to fund the development of schools, medical clinics and other basic necessities. This process is administered in the U.S. by TransFair, a non-profit organization.
Solombra Reserva will sell for about $8 a bottle in more than 450 Sam’s Club locations that are authorized to offer wine. TransFair USA, the United States’ sole Fair Trade certifying body, has stated that roughly $2 from the sale of each Solombra case will go towards the Argentina Fair Trade Cooperative fund to support local projects. Currently, through TransFair‘s Fair Trade committed initiative and the Solombra Fair Trade wine offering at Sam’s Club, plans are now underway to build a very much needed full service Medical Center in the Famatina Valley of Argentina between the towns of Chilecito and Timilqui.
Sam’s Club also sells Fair Trade Certified bananas, dried fruit as well as rice in some clubs and roses online. For more information about sustainability at Sam’s Club, visit samsclub.com to learn about waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation and responsible farming.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 16, 2009—Sam’s Club continues its commitment to Simple Steps to Saving Green™ and sustainability with the addition of a second Fair Trade Certified™ wine in locations nationwide. Solombra Reserva, produced and bottled by Argentina’s La RioJana Cooperative, is available at Sam’s Club as a, Merlot and Pinot Grigio. Other varietals including a Cabernet Sauvignon are expected to follow. This is the second Fair Trade Certified wine Sam’s Club has introduced and is one of only a handful to receive this status since 2008, the inaugural year of the groundbreaking Fair Trade Wine certification program in the U.S.
Solombra Reserva earns its name from the combination of the Spanish words "Sol" (meaning sun) and "Sombra" (meaning shadow), therefore defining the essential balance of light and darkness. This balance is not only necessary to create its elegant, full-bodied, ripe and aromatic Merlot, while the Pinot Grigio is fresh and light with citrus, apple notes and a lingering finish. The symbolic namesake represents the primary tenants on which Fair Trade is based – the balance of equality, fair prices, direct trade and environmental stewardship through sustainable practices.
“We are excited to be expanding our offering of Fair Trade Certified wines with the introduction of Solombra Reserva,” said Dex McCreary, senior merchandise director, wine and spirits, Sam’s Club. “We believe this wine, a result of collaboration between Sam’s Club and La RioJana, is a stellar representation of the emerging wine region, and Argentina’s overall reputation for world-class wines.”
Workers participating in Fair Trade Certified programs are guaranteed a fair price for their goods based on an analysis of the cost of the living in their area that will allow them to lead their lives with dignity and to fund the development of schools, medical clinics and other basic necessities. This process is administered in the U.S. by TransFair, a non-profit organization.
Solombra Reserva will sell for about $8 a bottle in more than 450 Sam’s Club locations that are authorized to offer wine. TransFair USA, the United States’ sole Fair Trade certifying body, has stated that roughly $2 from the sale of each Solombra case will go towards the Argentina Fair Trade Cooperative fund to support local projects. Currently, through TransFair‘s Fair Trade committed initiative and the Solombra Fair Trade wine offering at Sam’s Club, plans are now underway to build a very much needed full service Medical Center in the Famatina Valley of Argentina between the towns of Chilecito and Timilqui.
Sam’s Club also sells Fair Trade Certified bananas, dried fruit as well as rice in some clubs and roses online. For more information about sustainability at Sam’s Club, visit samsclub.com to learn about waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation and responsible farming.
Rumors of gang initiation attacks at WalMart called a hoax
Authorities are calling a hoax rumors spread by text messages and the Internet that gangs will carry out violent initiations at local WalMart stores.
The Alameda County Sheriff's Office has received text messages that gangs plan to attack women and children shopping at Wal-Mart as part of a gang initiation rite even though there is no WalMart located in the jurisdiction of the agency. The closest Wal-Marts are in Oakland and San Leandro.
Sheriff's spokesman J.D. Nelson dismissed the story, also being circulated on the Internet, saying that such rumors pop up periodically and have always been a hoax. The details and locations vary, he said, but "every single one of them have been unfounded."
Such urban legends seem to have begun in about 2005 with threats that gangs would target shoppers at big-box stores such as WalMart from Washington, D.C., to Colorado. In each case, no violence occurred. Most recently, a Web site in Santa Fe, N.M., said Thursday that authorities there were calling recent rumors of possible gang initiation violence at the Wal-Mart in the town of Espanola a hoax.
The Alameda County Sheriff's Office has received text messages that gangs plan to attack women and children shopping at Wal-Mart as part of a gang initiation rite even though there is no WalMart located in the jurisdiction of the agency. The closest Wal-Marts are in Oakland and San Leandro.
Sheriff's spokesman J.D. Nelson dismissed the story, also being circulated on the Internet, saying that such rumors pop up periodically and have always been a hoax. The details and locations vary, he said, but "every single one of them have been unfounded."
Such urban legends seem to have begun in about 2005 with threats that gangs would target shoppers at big-box stores such as WalMart from Washington, D.C., to Colorado. In each case, no violence occurred. Most recently, a Web site in Santa Fe, N.M., said Thursday that authorities there were calling recent rumors of possible gang initiation violence at the Wal-Mart in the town of Espanola a hoax.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Walmart Hosts Midnight Events, Blood Drives and Special Greeting For History-making Twilight
Retailer Opens Twilight Shops; Blood Drives Start Today
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 18, 2009 – Already the most pre-ordered movie in Walmart history, Twilight has fans everywhere anxiously awaiting its DVD release and Walmart is rolling out the red carpet. Starting today the retailer opens its “Twilight Shops” across the chain, and will even host blood drives in select markets, as vampire–mania goes into full swing. More than 2,400 midnight parties will be hosted by Walmart’s 24-hour stores nationwide this Friday evening for the midnight DVD release.
“We know this is unlike any other DVD release in our history, and we want to deliver a memorable event and store experience for teens and adult fans everywhere,” says Greg Hall, vice president of Merchandising, Walmart Entertainment.
* Blood Mobile Drives for Mortals Everywhere
It’s not just vampires who need blood. In many American Red Cross facilities, only half a day’s supply of blood is in stock rather than the needed three to five day reserve. To lend a hand, Walmart stores from Los Angeles to Port Angeles, Michigan to Miami will be partnering with the American Red Cross and community blood banks to ask customers to participate in this perfect opportunity to give back. These drives begin in front of select Walmart stores today, and in appreciation of support, donors will receive special, exclusive Twilight gifts from Walmart.*
* Midnight Twilight Events and In-Store Giveaways
Walmart wants to ensure fans everywhere can participate in the fun of Twilight mania, so in more than 2,400 of its stores it will give the first 50 fans in line before midnight, anxious to buy the DVD, a package of gifts unavailable elsewhere. Giveaways include a custom Bella and Edward picture folder, Twilight tattoos, and viewing party materials. Fans can purchase Walmart’s exclusive single-disc DVD or the special edition at 12:01 am.
For the many fans planning “viewing parties,” Walmart is opening “Twilight Shops” today containing an array of affordable Twilight apparel, bags, music, books and accessories. Friends can also connect with fellow “Twilighters” on the internet, to find party tips, and a free Twilight “eBite”.
* Exclusive Twilight Cast Give a Midnight Greeting
On the night of the in-store DVD release parties, Walmart plans to give fans thirsting for more a special greeting– an exclusive message on Walmart TV Network prepared just for them from the red hot Twilight cast. The never-before-seen message will be from select Twilight cast members and is taken on the set of the yet to be released, Twilight Saga, New Moon.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 18, 2009 – Already the most pre-ordered movie in Walmart history, Twilight has fans everywhere anxiously awaiting its DVD release and Walmart is rolling out the red carpet. Starting today the retailer opens its “Twilight Shops” across the chain, and will even host blood drives in select markets, as vampire–mania goes into full swing. More than 2,400 midnight parties will be hosted by Walmart’s 24-hour stores nationwide this Friday evening for the midnight DVD release.
“We know this is unlike any other DVD release in our history, and we want to deliver a memorable event and store experience for teens and adult fans everywhere,” says Greg Hall, vice president of Merchandising, Walmart Entertainment.
* Blood Mobile Drives for Mortals Everywhere
It’s not just vampires who need blood. In many American Red Cross facilities, only half a day’s supply of blood is in stock rather than the needed three to five day reserve. To lend a hand, Walmart stores from Los Angeles to Port Angeles, Michigan to Miami will be partnering with the American Red Cross and community blood banks to ask customers to participate in this perfect opportunity to give back. These drives begin in front of select Walmart stores today, and in appreciation of support, donors will receive special, exclusive Twilight gifts from Walmart.*
* Midnight Twilight Events and In-Store Giveaways
Walmart wants to ensure fans everywhere can participate in the fun of Twilight mania, so in more than 2,400 of its stores it will give the first 50 fans in line before midnight, anxious to buy the DVD, a package of gifts unavailable elsewhere. Giveaways include a custom Bella and Edward picture folder, Twilight tattoos, and viewing party materials. Fans can purchase Walmart’s exclusive single-disc DVD or the special edition at 12:01 am.
For the many fans planning “viewing parties,” Walmart is opening “Twilight Shops” today containing an array of affordable Twilight apparel, bags, music, books and accessories. Friends can also connect with fellow “Twilighters” on the internet, to find party tips, and a free Twilight “eBite”.
* Exclusive Twilight Cast Give a Midnight Greeting
On the night of the in-store DVD release parties, Walmart plans to give fans thirsting for more a special greeting– an exclusive message on Walmart TV Network prepared just for them from the red hot Twilight cast. The never-before-seen message will be from select Twilight cast members and is taken on the set of the yet to be released, Twilight Saga, New Moon.
34-year educator receives A+ as Teacher of the Year
After 34 years in the same profession, the zest and annually renewed refreshing feeling remain the same with no hint of burnout.
That assessment of his career to date comes from Philip R. Delongchamp of Spencer, a teacher at Knox Trail Junior High School on Ash Street and the recipient of the 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year Award from the WalMart Supercenter in Leicester.
"I give of myself to my students," Mr. Delongchamp said. "I want them to know I'm here to help them find their gift to the world. I don't care what subject you teach - that's just your vehicle to reach the students."
He has taught for the past 11 years in Spencer, where he was born and raised, but his early career in education was in Catholic schools in Connecticut.
He practice-taught under the supervision of a teacher in Spencer in 1974-75 and then returned to his hometown in 1997. Knox Trail was his first experience in a public school, one that coincidentally is located next to his parents' home.
Mr. Delongchamp said there is no real difference when comparing a Catholic school education with one in public schools because "children are children are children."
"I see each child as a gift, and one thing I've done since I started teaching in 1974 is I've kept a record of every single student's birthday. On that day I pray for them and I wish them a positive thought. It's my commitment to them. I always see this profession as a vocation for me."
Mr. Delongchamp teaches ancient civilization to seventh-graders at Knox Trail.
School Superintendent Ralph E. Hicks said his grandchildren have had Mr. Delongchamp as a teacher.
"Phil is an exemplary teacher," he said. "If you ask the kids who their favorite teacher is, most of them are going to say Mr. Delongchamp. He just gives 125 percent."
Being able to see students "get it" and see what education is all about is a constant thrill, according to Mr. Delongchamp.
Earlier in his life, he joined the Augustinians of the Assumption, the Catholic brotherhood that founded Assumption College in Worcester, and later had to choose between continuing in the brotherhood or leaving to care for his parents.
He wanted to stay in the brotherhood and serve as a teacher, but he chose his family obligations. "I could not sacrifice family," Mr. Delongchamp said. "They sacrificed so much for me that I could not abandon them."
Instead, he taught religion and French in Catholic schools in Connecticut because language teachers were not in great demand around here at the time.
The thrill of teaching has never left him. "Every year it's such a new beginning," he said. "Every year there's something new. The children, they're the ones who bring their gift into the subject matter.
"I tell them on the first day of school that I'm your servant. I'm here to serve you.'"
Mr. Delongchamp said he was caught by surprise when informed in October of the WalMart Teacher of the Year award.
"I'm a person who does not like to be in the limelight," he said. "I could have hidden myself under the desk when this happened. I was overwhelmed."
For years, WalMart stores across the country have recognized teachers and donated checks for $1,000 to the teachers' schools. Nominations for the award, according to Mr. Delongchamp, come from students or parents who send letters to Wal-Mart.
That assessment of his career to date comes from Philip R. Delongchamp of Spencer, a teacher at Knox Trail Junior High School on Ash Street and the recipient of the 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year Award from the WalMart Supercenter in Leicester.
"I give of myself to my students," Mr. Delongchamp said. "I want them to know I'm here to help them find their gift to the world. I don't care what subject you teach - that's just your vehicle to reach the students."
He has taught for the past 11 years in Spencer, where he was born and raised, but his early career in education was in Catholic schools in Connecticut.
He practice-taught under the supervision of a teacher in Spencer in 1974-75 and then returned to his hometown in 1997. Knox Trail was his first experience in a public school, one that coincidentally is located next to his parents' home.
Mr. Delongchamp said there is no real difference when comparing a Catholic school education with one in public schools because "children are children are children."
"I see each child as a gift, and one thing I've done since I started teaching in 1974 is I've kept a record of every single student's birthday. On that day I pray for them and I wish them a positive thought. It's my commitment to them. I always see this profession as a vocation for me."
Mr. Delongchamp teaches ancient civilization to seventh-graders at Knox Trail.
School Superintendent Ralph E. Hicks said his grandchildren have had Mr. Delongchamp as a teacher.
"Phil is an exemplary teacher," he said. "If you ask the kids who their favorite teacher is, most of them are going to say Mr. Delongchamp. He just gives 125 percent."
Being able to see students "get it" and see what education is all about is a constant thrill, according to Mr. Delongchamp.
Earlier in his life, he joined the Augustinians of the Assumption, the Catholic brotherhood that founded Assumption College in Worcester, and later had to choose between continuing in the brotherhood or leaving to care for his parents.
He wanted to stay in the brotherhood and serve as a teacher, but he chose his family obligations. "I could not sacrifice family," Mr. Delongchamp said. "They sacrificed so much for me that I could not abandon them."
Instead, he taught religion and French in Catholic schools in Connecticut because language teachers were not in great demand around here at the time.
The thrill of teaching has never left him. "Every year it's such a new beginning," he said. "Every year there's something new. The children, they're the ones who bring their gift into the subject matter.
"I tell them on the first day of school that I'm your servant. I'm here to serve you.'"
Mr. Delongchamp said he was caught by surprise when informed in October of the WalMart Teacher of the Year award.
"I'm a person who does not like to be in the limelight," he said. "I could have hidden myself under the desk when this happened. I was overwhelmed."
For years, WalMart stores across the country have recognized teachers and donated checks for $1,000 to the teachers' schools. Nominations for the award, according to Mr. Delongchamp, come from students or parents who send letters to Wal-Mart.
Walmart Makes Eye Care More Affordable for Millions of Americans
Retailer Provides Dramatic Savings on both Contact Lenses and Youth Eye wear
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 19, 2009 – Committed to helping Americans save on out-of-pocket health care costs, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., today announced it has sharply reduced what customers pay for both contact lenses* and youth eye wear.
In an effort to further drive down health care costs, Walmart and 1-800 CONTACTS, the world’s largest retailer of contact lenses, are working together to help more Americans save as much as 12 to 50 percent on the costs of a yearly supply of contact lenses. Additionally, Walmart has lowered its prices on glasses and frames for children and teenagers to make quality eye wear more affordable for families across the nation.
“Working with our suppliers and 1-800 CONTACTS, we have found a way to help our contact lens customers spend less and save more,” said Dr. John Agwunobi, senior vice president and president of Walmart’s Health and Wellness division. “By offering greater accessibility and affordability, we believe the customer savings could reach $400 million during the first three years of this alliance.”
Walmart’s program with 1-800 CONTACTS offers the convenience of high quality care provided by some of the nation’s finest independent eye doctors combined with world class customer support offered by 1-800 CONTACTS’ 24-hour online and telephone customer service representatives to all Walmart customers. Walmart and 1-800 CONTACTS estimate that customers have already saved more than $25 million since the program began rolling nationwide in January.
“At a time when every penny counts, contact lens wearers want to save money and get brand name contact lenses conveniently,” said Jonathan Coon, chief executive officer at 1-800 CONTACTS. “We are proud to be working with Walmart. Together, we have eliminated the hassle of mail-in rebates and replaced them with instant savings at the register. Our alliance improves access and lowers costs – enabling contact lens wearers to replace their lenses more frequently and live healthier lives.”
To help families during tough economic times, Walmart has also lowered prices on quality eye wear for children 18 years old and younger. Year-round, parents and caregivers will find youth frames and lenses for as low as $39. Walmart will also provide a one year guaranteed free replacement if the glasses are damaged.***
“No matter how bad the economy gets, families should never have to sacrifice their children’s ability to see the world in all its detail,” said Agwunobi. “This offering draws directly from our commitment to help families save money so they can live better.”
Walmart Vision Center customers will find 18 different youth frame styles and colors for only $10.
Additionally, customers have three youth lens options:
* $29 – Single Vision Youth Poly Impact resistant lens
* $49 – Single Vision Poly Impact resistant with Platinum finish (finish helps reduce glare)
* $79 – Single Vision Poly Impact resistant with Platinum finish and Transitions (transition lenses darken in sunlight to protect eyes from harmful rays from the sun)
Popular brands of stylish frames are also available at unbeatable prices. They include:
* Baby Phat
* Phat Farm
* Body Glove
* Nickelodeon
* Hanna Montana
* Turbo Flex
* Umbro
* Oscar de la Renta
This summer, consumers will also be able to choose from our new Daisy Fuentes frames at everyday low prices.
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 19, 2009 – Committed to helping Americans save on out-of-pocket health care costs, Wal-Mart Stores Inc., today announced it has sharply reduced what customers pay for both contact lenses* and youth eye wear.
In an effort to further drive down health care costs, Walmart and 1-800 CONTACTS, the world’s largest retailer of contact lenses, are working together to help more Americans save as much as 12 to 50 percent on the costs of a yearly supply of contact lenses. Additionally, Walmart has lowered its prices on glasses and frames for children and teenagers to make quality eye wear more affordable for families across the nation.
“Working with our suppliers and 1-800 CONTACTS, we have found a way to help our contact lens customers spend less and save more,” said Dr. John Agwunobi, senior vice president and president of Walmart’s Health and Wellness division. “By offering greater accessibility and affordability, we believe the customer savings could reach $400 million during the first three years of this alliance.”
Walmart’s program with 1-800 CONTACTS offers the convenience of high quality care provided by some of the nation’s finest independent eye doctors combined with world class customer support offered by 1-800 CONTACTS’ 24-hour online and telephone customer service representatives to all Walmart customers. Walmart and 1-800 CONTACTS estimate that customers have already saved more than $25 million since the program began rolling nationwide in January.
“At a time when every penny counts, contact lens wearers want to save money and get brand name contact lenses conveniently,” said Jonathan Coon, chief executive officer at 1-800 CONTACTS. “We are proud to be working with Walmart. Together, we have eliminated the hassle of mail-in rebates and replaced them with instant savings at the register. Our alliance improves access and lowers costs – enabling contact lens wearers to replace their lenses more frequently and live healthier lives.”
To help families during tough economic times, Walmart has also lowered prices on quality eye wear for children 18 years old and younger. Year-round, parents and caregivers will find youth frames and lenses for as low as $39. Walmart will also provide a one year guaranteed free replacement if the glasses are damaged.***
“No matter how bad the economy gets, families should never have to sacrifice their children’s ability to see the world in all its detail,” said Agwunobi. “This offering draws directly from our commitment to help families save money so they can live better.”
Walmart Vision Center customers will find 18 different youth frame styles and colors for only $10.
Additionally, customers have three youth lens options:
* $29 – Single Vision Youth Poly Impact resistant lens
* $49 – Single Vision Poly Impact resistant with Platinum finish (finish helps reduce glare)
* $79 – Single Vision Poly Impact resistant with Platinum finish and Transitions (transition lenses darken in sunlight to protect eyes from harmful rays from the sun)
Popular brands of stylish frames are also available at unbeatable prices. They include:
* Baby Phat
* Phat Farm
* Body Glove
* Nickelodeon
* Hanna Montana
* Turbo Flex
* Umbro
* Oscar de la Renta
This summer, consumers will also be able to choose from our new Daisy Fuentes frames at everyday low prices.
WalMart Announces Expanded Selection of Colcafé Coffee Products
Retailer will carry coffee in more than 3,500 Walmart stores in the United States
BOGOTÁ, Colombia - March 17, 2009 – WalMart announced today an expanded selection of Colcafé coffee products for WalMart’s Sam’s Choice gourmet coffee program. In addition to the 100 percent Colombian coffee that WalMart already carries, 3,500 Walmart stores in the United States will also now carry Colombian French Roast, House Blend, Espresso Roast, and Breakfast Blend varieties. Coffee is the second largest commodity in the world, topped only by oil.
“We are excited to carry even more of Colombia’s quality coffee products in our stores,” said Adonai Leiva, director of Sourcing, Private Brands, WalMart Stores, Inc. “Demand for this high quality and distinctive tasting coffee is strong, and we know our customers will be pleased with the additional Colombian coffee selection.”
Coffee represents 25 percent of the agricultural employment in Colombia impacting approximately 560,000 families. Colombian coffee is unique because of the country's stringent control standards. It is only after a thorough process that the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia will give its stamp of approval so the coffee can be sold.
Jorge Arango, president and CEO, Colcafé, said “As a result of the collaboration between WalMart and Colcafé, we are launching these products made out of 100% Colombian Excelso coffee. Together, we plan to bring value to the Colombian coffee industry while developing products that have an important component of sustainable development for Colombia’s coffee growers.”
WalMart and Proexport hosted their first ever Colombian Supplier Development Conference today with approximately 100 Colombian suppliers in attendance. The conference provided Colombian business leaders information on how to be a socially responsible, ethical and world class supplier.
“WalMart is proud to partner with Proexport to provide this development opportunity for Colombian suppliers,” said Renzo Casillo, president and CEO, WalMart Puerto Rico, who was the lead WalMart spokesperson at the event. “We want to work with producers around the world, from one-person shops to multinational corporations, to ensure that our products meet the needs of every customer we serve.”
BOGOTÁ, Colombia - March 17, 2009 – WalMart announced today an expanded selection of Colcafé coffee products for WalMart’s Sam’s Choice gourmet coffee program. In addition to the 100 percent Colombian coffee that WalMart already carries, 3,500 Walmart stores in the United States will also now carry Colombian French Roast, House Blend, Espresso Roast, and Breakfast Blend varieties. Coffee is the second largest commodity in the world, topped only by oil.
“We are excited to carry even more of Colombia’s quality coffee products in our stores,” said Adonai Leiva, director of Sourcing, Private Brands, WalMart Stores, Inc. “Demand for this high quality and distinctive tasting coffee is strong, and we know our customers will be pleased with the additional Colombian coffee selection.”
Coffee represents 25 percent of the agricultural employment in Colombia impacting approximately 560,000 families. Colombian coffee is unique because of the country's stringent control standards. It is only after a thorough process that the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia will give its stamp of approval so the coffee can be sold.
Jorge Arango, president and CEO, Colcafé, said “As a result of the collaboration between WalMart and Colcafé, we are launching these products made out of 100% Colombian Excelso coffee. Together, we plan to bring value to the Colombian coffee industry while developing products that have an important component of sustainable development for Colombia’s coffee growers.”
WalMart and Proexport hosted their first ever Colombian Supplier Development Conference today with approximately 100 Colombian suppliers in attendance. The conference provided Colombian business leaders information on how to be a socially responsible, ethical and world class supplier.
“WalMart is proud to partner with Proexport to provide this development opportunity for Colombian suppliers,” said Renzo Casillo, president and CEO, WalMart Puerto Rico, who was the lead WalMart spokesperson at the event. “We want to work with producers around the world, from one-person shops to multinational corporations, to ensure that our products meet the needs of every customer we serve.”
New Cedar Hills Super Center Introduces the Future of Walmart Stores
Inside and out, Super Center offers new look and layout
CEDAR HILLS, Utah, March 10, 2009 – A Walmart Super Center will open in Cedar Hills this month, introducing the company’s next generation of store design and customer experience to the area. Customers will find fresh produce, favorite brands and everyday savings among the store’s wide aisles. The Super Center will open to customers at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18.
Walmart worked with local officials to create a store that complements the local community. Located at 4689 W. Cedar Hill Dr., the 127,173-square-foot store features an earth-tone façade with a single entrance highlighted with a stamped concrete finish and decorative copper detailing. The exterior also includes pitched roofs, cupolas and copper flashing. The store’s extensive landscaping is highlighted with concrete planters with a special floral design.
“It has been a pleasure to work with the Walmart team as we have gone through the planning, designing, and building stages of this project,” said Michael C. McGee, mayor of Cedar Hills. “The building itself has already become a valuable asset to the community. We are very pleased with the outcome of the design and look of the building, and the beautiful landscaping has greatly enhanced our commercial district.”
Beyond its appearance, the Cedar Hills Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
The Cedar Hills store is one of two Walmart Super Centers opening in Utah March 18. The other is located in Hurricane. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Economic Impact Includes 300 New Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 300 associates, according to Store Manager Michael Kvenvold.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Kvenvold. Three of the Cedar Hills store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
Mayor McGee said, “This project will provide needed jobs for several hundred people in the area, and the revenues it will generate for Cedar Hills will help us improve and add to the amenities we offer our citizens. We look forward to working with Walmart and its associates to help make Cedar Hills an even better place to live."
Layout Improves Customer Experience
In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh its stores, merchandise and customer experience. The improvements have all come together in the company’s newest stores, such as the Cedar Hills store, bringing customers faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Supercenter is designed to make shopping easy for customers. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays. 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, $15,500 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Cedar Hills Super Center selected the city of Cedar Hills to receive a special $5,000 grant to build trails and improve recreational areas, in an effort to encourage healthy lifestyles. Other grants will support programs and activities at Cedar Ridge Elementary School, Deerfield Elementary School and Lone Peak High School. The local Boy Scouts, Lone Peak Fire Department and American Fork Police Department will also receive grants.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Kvenvold. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of Cedar Hills, Utah County and neighboring communities.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Richard Noble, from the West Stake Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints will offer an invocation and students from the Cedar Ridge Elementary School choir will perform the national anthem. Boy Scouts from the 9th Ward Troop will join members of the Orem Chapter of the American Legion to present the colors. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, Super Centers, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
FACT SHEET
Cedar Hills Walmart Supercenter
Store facts
* Location: 4689 W. Cedar Hill Dr., Cedar Hills, Utah
* 127,173-square-foot Walmart Supercenter
* Store opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Michael Kvenvold
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy and digital photo processing center.
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant.
* Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$15,500 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* American Fork Police Department
* Boy Scouts
* Cedar Ridge Elementary School
* City of Cedar Hills
* Deerfield Elementary School
* Lone Peak Fire Department
* Lone Peak High School
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 300 associates
* Three of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Utah is approximately $10.95 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
* Average wage taken February 2009.
Wal-Mart in Utah
As of February, Wal-Mart employed 16,501 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in Utah:
* Supercenters: 30
* Discount Stores: 2
* Neighborhood Markets: 5
* Sam’s Clubs: 8
* Distribution Centers: 3
CEDAR HILLS, Utah, March 10, 2009 – A Walmart Super Center will open in Cedar Hills this month, introducing the company’s next generation of store design and customer experience to the area. Customers will find fresh produce, favorite brands and everyday savings among the store’s wide aisles. The Super Center will open to customers at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18.
Walmart worked with local officials to create a store that complements the local community. Located at 4689 W. Cedar Hill Dr., the 127,173-square-foot store features an earth-tone façade with a single entrance highlighted with a stamped concrete finish and decorative copper detailing. The exterior also includes pitched roofs, cupolas and copper flashing. The store’s extensive landscaping is highlighted with concrete planters with a special floral design.
“It has been a pleasure to work with the Walmart team as we have gone through the planning, designing, and building stages of this project,” said Michael C. McGee, mayor of Cedar Hills. “The building itself has already become a valuable asset to the community. We are very pleased with the outcome of the design and look of the building, and the beautiful landscaping has greatly enhanced our commercial district.”
Beyond its appearance, the Cedar Hills Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
The Cedar Hills store is one of two Walmart Super Centers opening in Utah March 18. The other is located in Hurricane. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Economic Impact Includes 300 New Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 300 associates, according to Store Manager Michael Kvenvold.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Kvenvold. Three of the Cedar Hills store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
Mayor McGee said, “This project will provide needed jobs for several hundred people in the area, and the revenues it will generate for Cedar Hills will help us improve and add to the amenities we offer our citizens. We look forward to working with Walmart and its associates to help make Cedar Hills an even better place to live."
Layout Improves Customer Experience
In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh its stores, merchandise and customer experience. The improvements have all come together in the company’s newest stores, such as the Cedar Hills store, bringing customers faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Supercenter is designed to make shopping easy for customers. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays. 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, $15,500 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Cedar Hills Super Center selected the city of Cedar Hills to receive a special $5,000 grant to build trails and improve recreational areas, in an effort to encourage healthy lifestyles. Other grants will support programs and activities at Cedar Ridge Elementary School, Deerfield Elementary School and Lone Peak High School. The local Boy Scouts, Lone Peak Fire Department and American Fork Police Department will also receive grants.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Kvenvold. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of Cedar Hills, Utah County and neighboring communities.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Richard Noble, from the West Stake Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints will offer an invocation and students from the Cedar Ridge Elementary School choir will perform the national anthem. Boy Scouts from the 9th Ward Troop will join members of the Orem Chapter of the American Legion to present the colors. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, Super Centers, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
FACT SHEET
Cedar Hills Walmart Supercenter
Store facts
* Location: 4689 W. Cedar Hill Dr., Cedar Hills, Utah
* 127,173-square-foot Walmart Supercenter
* Store opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Michael Kvenvold
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy and digital photo processing center.
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant.
* Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$15,500 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* American Fork Police Department
* Boy Scouts
* Cedar Ridge Elementary School
* City of Cedar Hills
* Deerfield Elementary School
* Lone Peak Fire Department
* Lone Peak High School
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 300 associates
* Three of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Utah is approximately $10.95 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
* Average wage taken February 2009.
Wal-Mart in Utah
As of February, Wal-Mart employed 16,501 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in Utah:
* Supercenters: 30
* Discount Stores: 2
* Neighborhood Markets: 5
* Sam’s Clubs: 8
* Distribution Centers: 3
Walmart Brings One-Stop Shopping to Union County
Relocated Super Center adds grocery and 160 new jobs
UNION, S.C., March 12, 2009 – Union County residents can now add groceries to the list of items they save money on at the Union Walmart. By relocating to a Super Center, the store now offers a full grocery department and expanded merchandise selection. The Super Center opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18.
“We are growing with our community. By becoming a Super Center, we can help customers find everything on their shopping list in one place,” Store Manager Barry Medford said. “Local residents are looking for ways to save money on everyday essentials. We can now offer our customers savings on staples such as milk, eggs and fresh fruits and vegetables, all at unbeatable prices.”
Located at 513 N. Duncan Bypass, the Super Center has more than doubled its square footage with the relocation. The store will not only save local shoppers time and money but also will strengthen the city’s economy by adding to the tax base. Local leaders are excited about the store’s economic impact.
“We appreciate Walmart’s continued investment in our community and our local economy,” said Mayor Harold Thompson. “We are excited that we no longer have to drive a long distance to shop at Super Centers in other locations. We look forward to shopping at our new and larger Walmart, right here in Union.”
The Union store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in South Carolina March 18. The other is located in Laurens. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Layout Improves 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 Union store, offering customers faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The Super Center is also 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 layout of the stores is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” said Medford. “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.
Super Center Adds 160 Jobs
The Super Center plans to employ approximately 300 associates, including approximately 160 positions added by the relocation.
“I’m delighted to be a part of this relocation, as we now have the opportunity to provide additional jobs and career opportunities to the community,” said Medford.
Like most Walmart store managers, Medford first joined the company as an hourly associate. In 1981, he started working at the Union store as a stockman, before transferring to other stores and advancing through the company’s management program. He returned to Union in 2007 to prepare for the opening of the new Super Center. He is among 59 of the Union store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $10,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Union Super Center selected the local Meals on Wheels organization to receive a $5,000 grant to help it deliver hot meals to area seniors during the week. Other recipients include the Union County Council on Aging and the Union County Historical Society
“With these grand-opening grants, we wanted to support agencies that help families through hard times and contribute to a higher quality of life in our community,” said Medford.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Union Super Center, 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 throughout 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.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Brad Goodale from Phillipi Baptist Church will offer an invocation and the Color Guard from Union County High School will present the colors. Students from Union High School will perform the national anthem and Walmart associate Jonathan Moss will also perform during the ceremony. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances and product samples.
FACT SHEET
Union Walmart Super Center
Store facts
* Location: 513 N. Duncan Bypass, Union, S.C.
* Originally opened in 1981 at 441 N. Duncan Bypass
* 153,430-square-foot Walmart Supercenter, gaining an additional 82,000 square feet
* Store opens at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: W. Barry Medford
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 7 a.m. to midnight, 7 days a week
Charitable giving
$10,000 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Union County Council on Aging
* Union County Historical Society
* Union County Meals on Wheels
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 300 associates, including approximately 160 new jobs created by the relocation.
* Fifty-nine of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
* Store Manager Barry Medford started his career with Walmart as an hourly associate in 1981, working as a stock man at the Union store.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in South Carolina is approximately $11.21 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
WalMart in South Carolina
As of February, WalMart employed 27,130 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in South Carolina:
* Supercenters: 63
* Discount Stores: 8
* Sam’s Clubs: 9
* Distribution Centers: 2
UNION, S.C., March 12, 2009 – Union County residents can now add groceries to the list of items they save money on at the Union Walmart. By relocating to a Super Center, the store now offers a full grocery department and expanded merchandise selection. The Super Center opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18.
“We are growing with our community. By becoming a Super Center, we can help customers find everything on their shopping list in one place,” Store Manager Barry Medford said. “Local residents are looking for ways to save money on everyday essentials. We can now offer our customers savings on staples such as milk, eggs and fresh fruits and vegetables, all at unbeatable prices.”
Located at 513 N. Duncan Bypass, the Super Center has more than doubled its square footage with the relocation. The store will not only save local shoppers time and money but also will strengthen the city’s economy by adding to the tax base. Local leaders are excited about the store’s economic impact.
“We appreciate Walmart’s continued investment in our community and our local economy,” said Mayor Harold Thompson. “We are excited that we no longer have to drive a long distance to shop at Super Centers in other locations. We look forward to shopping at our new and larger Walmart, right here in Union.”
The Union store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in South Carolina March 18. The other is located in Laurens. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Layout Improves 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 Union store, offering customers faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The Super Center is also 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 layout of the stores is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” said Medford. “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.
Super Center Adds 160 Jobs
The Super Center plans to employ approximately 300 associates, including approximately 160 positions added by the relocation.
“I’m delighted to be a part of this relocation, as we now have the opportunity to provide additional jobs and career opportunities to the community,” said Medford.
Like most Walmart store managers, Medford first joined the company as an hourly associate. In 1981, he started working at the Union store as a stockman, before transferring to other stores and advancing through the company’s management program. He returned to Union in 2007 to prepare for the opening of the new Super Center. He is among 59 of the Union store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $10,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Union Super Center selected the local Meals on Wheels organization to receive a $5,000 grant to help it deliver hot meals to area seniors during the week. Other recipients include the Union County Council on Aging and the Union County Historical Society
“With these grand-opening grants, we wanted to support agencies that help families through hard times and contribute to a higher quality of life in our community,” said Medford.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Union Super Center, 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 throughout 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.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Brad Goodale from Phillipi Baptist Church will offer an invocation and the Color Guard from Union County High School will present the colors. Students from Union High School will perform the national anthem and Walmart associate Jonathan Moss will also perform during the ceremony. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances and product samples.
FACT SHEET
Union Walmart Super Center
Store facts
* Location: 513 N. Duncan Bypass, Union, S.C.
* Originally opened in 1981 at 441 N. Duncan Bypass
* 153,430-square-foot Walmart Supercenter, gaining an additional 82,000 square feet
* Store opens at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: W. Barry Medford
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 7 a.m. to midnight, 7 days a week
Charitable giving
$10,000 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Union County Council on Aging
* Union County Historical Society
* Union County Meals on Wheels
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 300 associates, including approximately 160 new jobs created by the relocation.
* Fifty-nine of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
* Store Manager Barry Medford started his career with Walmart as an hourly associate in 1981, working as a stock man at the Union store.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in South Carolina is approximately $11.21 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
WalMart in South Carolina
As of February, WalMart employed 27,130 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in South Carolina:
* Supercenters: 63
* Discount Stores: 8
* Sam’s Clubs: 9
* Distribution Centers: 2
New Laurens Walmart Super Center Full of Special Features
Relocated store showcases latest store design and layout
LAURENS, S.C., March 12, 2009 – A Walmart Super center opens this month in Laurens, with special touches inside and out, like wider aisles and new signage that local residents will appreciate. As one of Walmart’s newest designs, the store will feature enhanced services and a layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers than ever before. The Super center will open at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18.
Originally opened in 1988, the store has nearly doubled in size with the relocation, adding a full grocery department with a deli and bakery and expanding its merchandise selection. Located at 922 E. Main St., the Super center is now situated atop a hill, with a buffer of trees, landscaping and green space.
“The new Super center is a breath of fresh air into Laurens’ economy,” said Mayor Sharon Brownlee. “I am a firm believer that Walmart spurs continued development and other businesses are ready to follow in its footsteps. People from around the county will come to Laurens to do their shopping, and the store will be a big boost to our revenue base. I’m especially pleased that the new facility fits right in with the overall beautification efforts for our community, with its beautiful landscaping and green space.”
The Laurens store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in South Carolina March 18. The other is located in Union. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Layout Improves Customer Experience
The 24-hour Supercenter 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.
“In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh our stores, our merchandising and our customer experience,” said Store Manager Dorsey Thomas. “The improvements we’ve been making have all come together in our new store with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and a cleaner store.”
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.
Super center Adds 140 Hometown Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 320 associates, including approximately 140 new positions created by the relocation. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Thomas.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Thomas. Like most Walmart store managers, he first joined the company as an hourly associate. Forty of the Laurens store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years. Ten associates have worked at the store since it opened in 1988.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $10,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Laurens Supercenter selected United Ministries of Laurens to receive a $5,000 grant to support its food bank and other hunger relief efforts. Other recipients include the Hospice of Laurens County and Laurens Memorial Home for the Aged.
“In addition to grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation, we’ve supported these agencies and other community charitable efforts for years by hosting fundraisers, providing volunteers, and giving in-kind merchandise donations,” said Thomas. “We think of them as our partners and consider it a privilege to support the good work they do.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Laurens Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting.
Part of 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.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Ossie Deese from the Laurens Church of God will offer an invocation and the Color Guard from Clinton High School will present the colors. Local community leaders will join Thomas to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy product samples and giveaways.
LAURENS, S.C., March 12, 2009 – A Walmart Super center opens this month in Laurens, with special touches inside and out, like wider aisles and new signage that local residents will appreciate. As one of Walmart’s newest designs, the store will feature enhanced services and a layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers than ever before. The Super center will open at 8 a.m., Wednesday, March 18.
Originally opened in 1988, the store has nearly doubled in size with the relocation, adding a full grocery department with a deli and bakery and expanding its merchandise selection. Located at 922 E. Main St., the Super center is now situated atop a hill, with a buffer of trees, landscaping and green space.
“The new Super center is a breath of fresh air into Laurens’ economy,” said Mayor Sharon Brownlee. “I am a firm believer that Walmart spurs continued development and other businesses are ready to follow in its footsteps. People from around the county will come to Laurens to do their shopping, and the store will be a big boost to our revenue base. I’m especially pleased that the new facility fits right in with the overall beautification efforts for our community, with its beautiful landscaping and green space.”
The Laurens store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in South Carolina March 18. The other is located in Union. They are among the first stores to feature the new Walmart logo.
Layout Improves Customer Experience
The 24-hour Supercenter 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.
“In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh our stores, our merchandising and our customer experience,” said Store Manager Dorsey Thomas. “The improvements we’ve been making have all come together in our new store with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and a cleaner store.”
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.
Super center Adds 140 Hometown Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 320 associates, including approximately 140 new positions created by the relocation. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Thomas.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Thomas. Like most Walmart store managers, he first joined the company as an hourly associate. Forty of the Laurens store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years. Ten associates have worked at the store since it opened in 1988.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $10,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Laurens Supercenter selected United Ministries of Laurens to receive a $5,000 grant to support its food bank and other hunger relief efforts. Other recipients include the Hospice of Laurens County and Laurens Memorial Home for the Aged.
“In addition to grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation, we’ve supported these agencies and other community charitable efforts for years by hosting fundraisers, providing volunteers, and giving in-kind merchandise donations,” said Thomas. “We think of them as our partners and consider it a privilege to support the good work they do.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Laurens Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting.
Part of 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.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Ossie Deese from the Laurens Church of God will offer an invocation and the Color Guard from Clinton High School will present the colors. Local community leaders will join Thomas to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy product samples and giveaways.
Walmart Brings Savings and Convenience to Waynesburg
New Super Center provides 330 jobs
WAYNESBURG, Penn., March 11, 2009 – A Walmart Super Center opens this month in Waynesburg, bringing 330 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 Supercenter, conveniently located at 405 Murtha Dr., near Hwy. 21 and Interstate 79, will open to customers on Wednesday, March 18.
Local leaders are excited about the new Supercenter and hope Walmart’s presence will encourage local residents to shop closer to home. “Walmart will provide the much needed opportunity for the people of Greene County to have a convenient place to shop,” said Pam Snyder, chair of the Greene County Board of Commissioners. “The store is an asset to Greene County, and we are truly looking forward to the grand opening.”
Supercenter Brings 330 Jobs to Waynesburg
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 330 associates. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Store Manager John Dukman.
“Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Dukman said. “Many associates joined because they know they have the opportunity for a long-lasting career at Walmart.” Like most Walmart store managers, he started his career with the company as an hourly associate. In 2001, he joined the company as an overnight grocery stockman at a store in Mt. Pleasant. Approximately 20 of the Waynesburg store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
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 Waynesburg Supercenter, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Supercenter 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 Dukman. “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, $15,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Waynesburg Supercenter selected Corner Cupboard Food Bank to receive a special $5,000 grant to support its meal program and other hunger-relief efforts. Other recipients include the area 4-H Clubs, Greene County United Way, Hospice Care and Waynesburg-Franklin Township Fire Department.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Dukman. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of Waynesburg, Greene County and neighboring communities.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Waynesburg Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pastor Philip Elliot from the First Baptist Church in Waynesburg will offer an invocation and community and business leaders will join Dukman to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
WAYNESBURG, Penn., March 11, 2009 – A Walmart Super Center opens this month in Waynesburg, bringing 330 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 Supercenter, conveniently located at 405 Murtha Dr., near Hwy. 21 and Interstate 79, will open to customers on Wednesday, March 18.
Local leaders are excited about the new Supercenter and hope Walmart’s presence will encourage local residents to shop closer to home. “Walmart will provide the much needed opportunity for the people of Greene County to have a convenient place to shop,” said Pam Snyder, chair of the Greene County Board of Commissioners. “The store is an asset to Greene County, and we are truly looking forward to the grand opening.”
Supercenter Brings 330 Jobs to Waynesburg
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 330 associates. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Store Manager John Dukman.
“Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Dukman said. “Many associates joined because they know they have the opportunity for a long-lasting career at Walmart.” Like most Walmart store managers, he started his career with the company as an hourly associate. In 2001, he joined the company as an overnight grocery stockman at a store in Mt. Pleasant. Approximately 20 of the Waynesburg store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
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 Waynesburg Supercenter, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Supercenter 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 Dukman. “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, $15,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Waynesburg Supercenter selected Corner Cupboard Food Bank to receive a special $5,000 grant to support its meal program and other hunger-relief efforts. Other recipients include the area 4-H Clubs, Greene County United Way, Hospice Care and Waynesburg-Franklin Township Fire Department.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Dukman. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of Waynesburg, Greene County and neighboring communities.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Waynesburg Supercenter, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pastor Philip Elliot from the First Baptist Church in Waynesburg will offer an invocation and community and business leaders will join Dukman to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
Walmart Transforms Orland Hills Store into Super Center
New store adds full line of groceries and 150 new jobs
ORLAND HILLS, Ill., March 11, 2009 – The wait is over for residents in Orland Hills eager to see their Walmart on 159th Street become a full Super center, bringing savings to local shoppers on a full line of groceries and a wide assortment of new products and services. The Supercenter will open to customers at 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, after a 7 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“This new Walmart Super center is a ‘Godsend’ for Orland Hills,” said Mayor Kyle R. Hastings. “Walmart has been a great business partner in Orland Hills since 1991, and this project clearly demonstrates how good things can come from mutual respect and cooperation between business and government.”
The store originally opened in October 1991 in the Orland Towne Center shopping center. With the relocation next door, the store gained an additional 84,000 square feet including a full line of groceries. The original store will soon be demolished to increase the store’s parking.
“We have a loyal customer base and some have been shopping here since our original opening more than 18 years ago,” said Store Manager Craig Harrison. “We think they’ll love the easy-to-shop layout of the new Super center and appreciate the savings we offer on the products they are looking for.”
The Orland Hills store is one of two Walmart Super centers opening in Illinois March 18. The other is located in Beardstown. Walmart is opening 10 Supercenters across the country in March. They are among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart logo.
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 Orland Hills Super center, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Super center 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 layout of the stores is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities at our unbeatable prices,” said Harrison. “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.
Supercenter Adds 150 New Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 450 associates, including approximately 150 positions created by the relocation. Sixty-nine of the Orland Hills store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years and 15 have worked at the store since it originally opened in 1991.
“Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Harrison said. “It makes me proud to work for this company where there are unlimited opportunities. Many associates joined because they know they have the opportunity for a long-lasting career at Walmart.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Orland Hills Super center, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Part of 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.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
The newly relocated Super center is continuing its support of the area by giving $11,500 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation to local organizations. That support includes a $5,000 grant to the Wolves Youth Athletic Association for its recreational and organized sports activities for Orland Hills youth. Associates also chose to honor the late senior director Kay Gnech with a $2,000 donation to the fund set up in her memory to support activities for area senior citizens.
The Orland Township Food Pantry, Orland Fire Protection District and Village of Orland Hills Police Department will each receive a $1,500 grant to support their operations. The police department plans to use its grant to purchase a portable automatic defibrillator, and the fire department will use its funding toward fire-fighting and emergency response equipment.
“In addition to grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation, we’ve supported these agencies and other community charitable efforts for years by hosting fundraisers, providing volunteers and giving in-kind merchandise donations,” said Harrison. “We think of them as our partners and consider it a privilege to support the good work they do.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Michael McCartney, pastor of Christian Hills Full Gospel Church, will offer an invocation and Walmart associate David Range will perform the national anthem. Members of the local post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars will present the colors. Mayor Hastings and Chamber of Commerce President Robin Wagner will join Harrison to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE: WMT)
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, super centers, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at www.walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart (NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
FACT SHEET
Orland Hills Walmart Supercenter
Store facts
* Location: 9245 W. 159th St., Orland Hills, Ill.
* 195,458-square-foot Walmart Supercenter, gaining an additional 84,000 square feet
* Store opens at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Craig Harrison
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center with drive-through loading area, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy with two drive-through lanes, vision center, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant, portrait studio, SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$11,500 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Orland Fire Protection District
* Orland Township Food Pantry
* Village of Orland Hills Kay Gnech Memorial Senior Fund
* Village of Orland Hills Police Department
* Wolves Youth Athletic Association
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 450 associates, including approximately 150 positions created by the relocation.
* Sixty-nine of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
* Fifteen associates have worked at the store since it originally opened in 1991.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Illinois is approximately $11.67 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
ORLAND HILLS, Ill., March 11, 2009 – The wait is over for residents in Orland Hills eager to see their Walmart on 159th Street become a full Super center, bringing savings to local shoppers on a full line of groceries and a wide assortment of new products and services. The Supercenter will open to customers at 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, after a 7 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“This new Walmart Super center is a ‘Godsend’ for Orland Hills,” said Mayor Kyle R. Hastings. “Walmart has been a great business partner in Orland Hills since 1991, and this project clearly demonstrates how good things can come from mutual respect and cooperation between business and government.”
The store originally opened in October 1991 in the Orland Towne Center shopping center. With the relocation next door, the store gained an additional 84,000 square feet including a full line of groceries. The original store will soon be demolished to increase the store’s parking.
“We have a loyal customer base and some have been shopping here since our original opening more than 18 years ago,” said Store Manager Craig Harrison. “We think they’ll love the easy-to-shop layout of the new Super center and appreciate the savings we offer on the products they are looking for.”
The Orland Hills store is one of two Walmart Super centers opening in Illinois March 18. The other is located in Beardstown. Walmart is opening 10 Supercenters across the country in March. They are among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart logo.
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 Orland Hills Super center, with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
The new Super center 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 layout of the stores is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities at our unbeatable prices,” said Harrison. “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.
Supercenter Adds 150 New Jobs
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 450 associates, including approximately 150 positions created by the relocation. Sixty-nine of the Orland Hills store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years and 15 have worked at the store since it originally opened in 1991.
“Joining Walmart was a great career decision for me, as it has been for so many of my fellow associates,” Harrison said. “It makes me proud to work for this company where there are unlimited opportunities. Many associates joined because they know they have the opportunity for a long-lasting career at Walmart.”
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The Orland Hills Super center, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Part of 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.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
The newly relocated Super center is continuing its support of the area by giving $11,500 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation to local organizations. That support includes a $5,000 grant to the Wolves Youth Athletic Association for its recreational and organized sports activities for Orland Hills youth. Associates also chose to honor the late senior director Kay Gnech with a $2,000 donation to the fund set up in her memory to support activities for area senior citizens.
The Orland Township Food Pantry, Orland Fire Protection District and Village of Orland Hills Police Department will each receive a $1,500 grant to support their operations. The police department plans to use its grant to purchase a portable automatic defibrillator, and the fire department will use its funding toward fire-fighting and emergency response equipment.
“In addition to grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation, we’ve supported these agencies and other community charitable efforts for years by hosting fundraisers, providing volunteers and giving in-kind merchandise donations,” said Harrison. “We think of them as our partners and consider it a privilege to support the good work they do.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Michael McCartney, pastor of Christian Hills Full Gospel Church, will offer an invocation and Walmart associate David Range will perform the national anthem. Members of the local post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars will present the colors. Mayor Hastings and Chamber of Commerce President Robin Wagner will join Harrison to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE: WMT)
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, super centers, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at www.walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart (NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
FACT SHEET
Orland Hills Walmart Supercenter
Store facts
* Location: 9245 W. 159th St., Orland Hills, Ill.
* 195,458-square-foot Walmart Supercenter, gaining an additional 84,000 square feet
* Store opens at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Craig Harrison
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center with drive-through loading area, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy with two drive-through lanes, vision center, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant, portrait studio, SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$11,500 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Orland Fire Protection District
* Orland Township Food Pantry
* Village of Orland Hills Kay Gnech Memorial Senior Fund
* Village of Orland Hills Police Department
* Wolves Youth Athletic Association
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 450 associates, including approximately 150 positions created by the relocation.
* Sixty-nine of the store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
* Fifteen associates have worked at the store since it originally opened in 1991.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Illinois is approximately $11.67 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
WalMart same-store sales jump last month
WalMart Stores Inc.'s sales surged in February, beating the company's forecast and retail analysts' expectations at a time when most retailers reported double-digit sales declines.
The company also raised its stock dividend Thursday for the 35th consecutive year.
Dillard's Inc. of Little Rock was among the retailers that suffered another sharp drop in sales. With unemployment rising and household incomes shrinking, department and apparel stores have tried for months to draw customers with sharply discounted merchandise with limited success.
WalMart said Thursday that last month's sales in stores open at least a year rose 5.1 percent over a year ago, well above the 1 percent to 3 percent the company had forecast. The results exclude the impact of fluctuating gasoline prices.
Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters had expected a 2.4 percent increase in WalMart's same-store sales.
Results from stores open at least a year exclude the impact of stores opened or closed during the period, providing a measure of performance in continuing operations.
"WalMart has got amazing traffic, and they're driving more traffic," said Patricia Edwards, a retail analyst and founder of Storehouse Partners LLC in Seattle.
WalMart, based in Bentonville, increased its dividend by 15 percent, from 95 cents to $1.09 a share.
The sales and dividend news pushed the company's stock up $1.26, or 2.6 percent, to a close of $49.75 a share on the New York Stock Exchange as the overall market plummeted to a 12-year low.
WalMart's stock has traded between $46.25 and $63.85 in the past year.
Because of its enormous scale more than 4,200 U.S. stores and 3,300-plus in its international division WalMart skews the results of U.S.-based retail operations overall.
Including WalMart's latest results, same-store sales at 35 retail chains tracked by the International Council of Shopping Centers fell only 0.1 percent in February. Excluding Wal-Mart, sales were down 4.3 percent, the trade group said.
"The tone was a little better, but the poster child of the improvement was WalMart," said Michael Niemira, the center's chief economist.
While the numbers may show that business is stabilizing, he said, it could also just be a "WalMart story" that more people are downscaling amid the tough times.
John Lawrence, an analyst with Morgan Keegan & Co. in Memphis, sees Wal-Mart continuing to improve sales.
"With five consecutive months of traffic increase, WalMart is clearly taking market share from its rivals," he wrote in a research note to clients.
"We expect the trend to continue with the trading-down effect and improving store operation." Among other retailers reporting same-store sales: Gap Inc.'s sales fell 12 percent, its Old Navy store sales fell 13 percent and Banana Republic was off 16 percent; Kohl's Corp. sales fell 1.6 percent; J.C. Penney Co. Inc.'s sales fell 8.8 percent; Nordstrom Inc.'s sales fell 15.4 percent; and Macy's Inc.'s sales fell 8.5 percent.
Dillard's reported samestore sales fell 14 percent from February's results last year, citing sluggish sales in juniors' and children's apparel.
Cosmetics sales were significantly better than the average company trend, Dillard's said.
The company said sales were slightly above the company trend in the central region, slightly below trend in the East and below trend in the West.
Low gasoline prices likely helped increase February sales at WalMart, the company said.
"We believe falling gas prices significantly boosted household disposable income in February and therefore allowed for both more trips and more spending towards discretionary categories," Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman in charge of the company's U.S. stores division, said in a news release on the company's latest results.
If so, the lower fuel prices did not help all of WalMart's competitors.
Target Corp. of Minneapolis, the No. 2 discounter nationally, reported same-store sales fell 4.1 percent, which Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and chief executive officer, said was "in line with our planned range for the month." Other discounters did better, however. Family Dollar Stores Inc. of Matthews, N.C., with 6,643 stores at the end of February, said same-store sales were up 6.4 percent.
And regional retailer Duckwall-ALCO Stores Inc. of Abilene, Kan., with 258 stores in 23 states, reported samestore sales up 9.4 percent.
But mostly, retailers are hurting.
"It is brutal out there," Edwards said.
"People are trading down, they are shopping where they can get their food in addition to other things, and they are trying to save money any way possible," she said.
WalMart said grocery, health and wellness categories helped push sales higher, but also said shoppers spent more on items for their homes.
Edwards noted that other retailers also pointed to improvement in the home category, suggesting that people are not going out as much and are willing to spend some money to spruce up their homes.
Sam's Club, WalMart's members-only, wholesale club division, outperformed the U.S. stores operation with a 5.9 percent gain, excluding the impact of gasoline.
The U.S. stores division, which includes supercenters, discount stores and Neighborhood Market grocery stores, boosted same-store sales 5 percent.
At Sam's, food and other consumables also were mainly responsible for sales gains as shoppers avoided furniture, jewelry and other big-ticket items, the company said.
Club operator Costco Wholesale Corp. reported Wednesday that its same-store sales, excluding fuel, rose 4 percent at its U.S. stores in February.
BJ's Wholesale Club said sales were up 0.6 percent, excluding fuel.
WalMart's international sales continued to grow, though they don't look that way when converted to U.S. dollars.
Factoring out the increase in the dollar's value compared with other currencies from a year ago, sales were up 9.9 percent.
At current exchange rates, the company said, sales were down 10.8 percent in dollars.
WalMart de Mexico, a publicly traded company, boosted same-store sales by 4.7 percent.
WalMart does not report details of same-store sales for the other nations where it has stores, though it said those sales were slightly negative in Canada, positive in Japan and rose in the low single digits in Brazil.
The company also raised its stock dividend Thursday for the 35th consecutive year.
Dillard's Inc. of Little Rock was among the retailers that suffered another sharp drop in sales. With unemployment rising and household incomes shrinking, department and apparel stores have tried for months to draw customers with sharply discounted merchandise with limited success.
WalMart said Thursday that last month's sales in stores open at least a year rose 5.1 percent over a year ago, well above the 1 percent to 3 percent the company had forecast. The results exclude the impact of fluctuating gasoline prices.
Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters had expected a 2.4 percent increase in WalMart's same-store sales.
Results from stores open at least a year exclude the impact of stores opened or closed during the period, providing a measure of performance in continuing operations.
"WalMart has got amazing traffic, and they're driving more traffic," said Patricia Edwards, a retail analyst and founder of Storehouse Partners LLC in Seattle.
WalMart, based in Bentonville, increased its dividend by 15 percent, from 95 cents to $1.09 a share.
The sales and dividend news pushed the company's stock up $1.26, or 2.6 percent, to a close of $49.75 a share on the New York Stock Exchange as the overall market plummeted to a 12-year low.
WalMart's stock has traded between $46.25 and $63.85 in the past year.
Because of its enormous scale more than 4,200 U.S. stores and 3,300-plus in its international division WalMart skews the results of U.S.-based retail operations overall.
Including WalMart's latest results, same-store sales at 35 retail chains tracked by the International Council of Shopping Centers fell only 0.1 percent in February. Excluding Wal-Mart, sales were down 4.3 percent, the trade group said.
"The tone was a little better, but the poster child of the improvement was WalMart," said Michael Niemira, the center's chief economist.
While the numbers may show that business is stabilizing, he said, it could also just be a "WalMart story" that more people are downscaling amid the tough times.
John Lawrence, an analyst with Morgan Keegan & Co. in Memphis, sees Wal-Mart continuing to improve sales.
"With five consecutive months of traffic increase, WalMart is clearly taking market share from its rivals," he wrote in a research note to clients.
"We expect the trend to continue with the trading-down effect and improving store operation." Among other retailers reporting same-store sales: Gap Inc.'s sales fell 12 percent, its Old Navy store sales fell 13 percent and Banana Republic was off 16 percent; Kohl's Corp. sales fell 1.6 percent; J.C. Penney Co. Inc.'s sales fell 8.8 percent; Nordstrom Inc.'s sales fell 15.4 percent; and Macy's Inc.'s sales fell 8.5 percent.
Dillard's reported samestore sales fell 14 percent from February's results last year, citing sluggish sales in juniors' and children's apparel.
Cosmetics sales were significantly better than the average company trend, Dillard's said.
The company said sales were slightly above the company trend in the central region, slightly below trend in the East and below trend in the West.
Low gasoline prices likely helped increase February sales at WalMart, the company said.
"We believe falling gas prices significantly boosted household disposable income in February and therefore allowed for both more trips and more spending towards discretionary categories," Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman in charge of the company's U.S. stores division, said in a news release on the company's latest results.
If so, the lower fuel prices did not help all of WalMart's competitors.
Target Corp. of Minneapolis, the No. 2 discounter nationally, reported same-store sales fell 4.1 percent, which Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and chief executive officer, said was "in line with our planned range for the month." Other discounters did better, however. Family Dollar Stores Inc. of Matthews, N.C., with 6,643 stores at the end of February, said same-store sales were up 6.4 percent.
And regional retailer Duckwall-ALCO Stores Inc. of Abilene, Kan., with 258 stores in 23 states, reported samestore sales up 9.4 percent.
But mostly, retailers are hurting.
"It is brutal out there," Edwards said.
"People are trading down, they are shopping where they can get their food in addition to other things, and they are trying to save money any way possible," she said.
WalMart said grocery, health and wellness categories helped push sales higher, but also said shoppers spent more on items for their homes.
Edwards noted that other retailers also pointed to improvement in the home category, suggesting that people are not going out as much and are willing to spend some money to spruce up their homes.
Sam's Club, WalMart's members-only, wholesale club division, outperformed the U.S. stores operation with a 5.9 percent gain, excluding the impact of gasoline.
The U.S. stores division, which includes supercenters, discount stores and Neighborhood Market grocery stores, boosted same-store sales 5 percent.
At Sam's, food and other consumables also were mainly responsible for sales gains as shoppers avoided furniture, jewelry and other big-ticket items, the company said.
Club operator Costco Wholesale Corp. reported Wednesday that its same-store sales, excluding fuel, rose 4 percent at its U.S. stores in February.
BJ's Wholesale Club said sales were up 0.6 percent, excluding fuel.
WalMart's international sales continued to grow, though they don't look that way when converted to U.S. dollars.
Factoring out the increase in the dollar's value compared with other currencies from a year ago, sales were up 9.9 percent.
At current exchange rates, the company said, sales were down 10.8 percent in dollars.
WalMart de Mexico, a publicly traded company, boosted same-store sales by 4.7 percent.
WalMart does not report details of same-store sales for the other nations where it has stores, though it said those sales were slightly negative in Canada, positive in Japan and rose in the low single digits in Brazil.
Prescription Drug Prices: CVS Pharmacy or WalMart?
It can be compare
I visit the Columbia City WalMart almost weekly, and I thought that I might be able to save five or ten dollars on my prescriptions. After talking to CVS Pharmacy, I called Wal-Mart pharmacy, and I expected to find out the medications were about the same in price. The first prescription would cost $43.72, and the second would cost a grand total of $6.67! I thought maybe the lady misunderstood what I was asking for, and I repeated the name and quantity of the pills I require. She had it right the first time. In all, I saved a whooping $78.79! How could my medication cost this much less at WalMart?
CVS Pharmacy is a much smaller retailer than WalMart, so naturally the markup on everything is higher. WalMart can afford to sell prescription drugs at much lower prices since they sell a wide variety of other items. CVS Pharmacy must rely on prescription drug sales to remain in business, but WalMart doesn't have to add a huge markup to the prescription drugs they sell.
If you have medical insurance and prescription drug coverage, by all means opt for convenience, but those of us who must pinch pennies because we aren't covered by insurance must shop around. If you didn't have medical insurance or prescription drug coverage, where would you rather shop for your meds? After finding out how inflated the prices are at CVS Pharmacy, I'll always shop at WalMart for all of my prescription medications. They filled my prescriptions fast, they were very friendly, and I saved enough money to fill my gas tank and buy some groceries. It was definitely worth a minute of my time to call and compare.
I visit the Columbia City WalMart almost weekly, and I thought that I might be able to save five or ten dollars on my prescriptions. After talking to CVS Pharmacy, I called Wal-Mart pharmacy, and I expected to find out the medications were about the same in price. The first prescription would cost $43.72, and the second would cost a grand total of $6.67! I thought maybe the lady misunderstood what I was asking for, and I repeated the name and quantity of the pills I require. She had it right the first time. In all, I saved a whooping $78.79! How could my medication cost this much less at WalMart?
CVS Pharmacy is a much smaller retailer than WalMart, so naturally the markup on everything is higher. WalMart can afford to sell prescription drugs at much lower prices since they sell a wide variety of other items. CVS Pharmacy must rely on prescription drug sales to remain in business, but WalMart doesn't have to add a huge markup to the prescription drugs they sell.
If you have medical insurance and prescription drug coverage, by all means opt for convenience, but those of us who must pinch pennies because we aren't covered by insurance must shop around. If you didn't have medical insurance or prescription drug coverage, where would you rather shop for your meds? After finding out how inflated the prices are at CVS Pharmacy, I'll always shop at WalMart for all of my prescription medications. They filled my prescriptions fast, they were very friendly, and I saved enough money to fill my gas tank and buy some groceries. It was definitely worth a minute of my time to call and compare.
New Tallahassee Supercenter Introduces Latest Walmart Features
Tallahassee gains a new Walmart Supercenter this month. Located on Monroe Street, the store introduces the retailer’s latest in store design and customer experience to the community. The new store will feature the company’s new logo, wider aisles, enhanced service and a special layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers than ever before. In addition to offering consumers a new one-stop shopping destination, the Supercenter will provide jobs to approximately 250 area residents and provide ongoing support to area non-profit organizations. The store will hold a grand-opening ceremony at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, and open its doors to customers at 8 a.m.
Located at 3321 N. Monroe St., the store is on the site of former Sam’s Club that relocated in 2004. In addition to re-using the site, Walmart built the store with 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Like many Walmart stores, waste heat from the refrigeration system is used to heat hot water for restrooms and kitchen areas. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Walmart’s efforts to utilize energy-efficient technology have not gone unnoticed. “Walmart is leading by example. The company can influence and encourage sustainable business practices through its operations and relationships with suppliers and vendors,” said Tim Center, vice president of sustainability initiatives for the Collins Center for Public Policy and director of Sustainable Florida.
Supercenter Brings 250 Jobs, Economic Boost to Tallahassee
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 250 associates. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Store Manager Michael Hicks.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of career opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Hicks. More than 15 of the Tallahassee store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Florida is approximately $11.38 per hour*
Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance.
The Tallahassee store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in Florida on March 18. The other is located in West Palm Beach.
Layout Improves Customer Experience
The 24-hour Supercenter is designed to make shopping easy for customers. Lower shelving creates an improved sightline and directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for quickly. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays.
“The layout of the store is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” Hicks said. “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.”
The Supercenter also brings Walmart customers an expanded electronics department featuring a wide selection of the latest consumer electronics and home entertainment. The new design includes a more hands-on experience for customers with interactive displays for hi-definition Blu-ray, video gaming and portable electronics. The interactive experience makes it easier for shoppers to test new technology.
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 Tallahassee Supercenter, resulting in faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $20,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Tallahassee Supercenter selected America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend to receive a $5,000 grant to support the food bank and its hunger-relief efforts. A total of $10,000 in grants will be shared by nearby schools, including Godby High School, Griffin Middle School, Springwood Elementary School and Leon County Schools. The Collins Center for Public Policy received a $2,500 grant for its Sustainable Florida program, a 20-year-old public-private alliance focused on environmental stewardship and economic development.
“We are thankful for Walmart’s support during its grand opening, which clearly demonstrates its commitment to our community and to Sustainable Florida’s goal of promoting sustainable development principles through education and collaboration,” Center said.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pastor Bill Rhodes of Killearn United Methodist Church will offer an invocation and a representative from Stubbs Educational Foundation will perform the national anthem. Students from Godby High School’s Junior ROTC program will present the colors during the ceremony. Community and business leaders will join Hicks to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
Located at 3321 N. Monroe St., the store is on the site of former Sam’s Club that relocated in 2004. In addition to re-using the site, Walmart built the store with 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting. Like many Walmart stores, waste heat from the refrigeration system is used to heat hot water for restrooms and kitchen areas. Low-flow toilets and faucets reduce the water used in the bathrooms.
Walmart’s efforts to utilize energy-efficient technology have not gone unnoticed. “Walmart is leading by example. The company can influence and encourage sustainable business practices through its operations and relationships with suppliers and vendors,” said Tim Center, vice president of sustainability initiatives for the Collins Center for Public Policy and director of Sustainable Florida.
Supercenter Brings 250 Jobs, Economic Boost to Tallahassee
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 250 associates. Most of the positions will be full time, according to Store Manager Michael Hicks.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of career opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Hicks. More than 15 of the Tallahassee store’s associates have worked for Walmart for more than 10 years.
The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Florida is approximately $11.38 per hour*
Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance.
The Tallahassee store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in Florida on March 18. The other is located in West Palm Beach.
Layout Improves Customer Experience
The 24-hour Supercenter is designed to make shopping easy for customers. Lower shelving creates an improved sightline and directional signage on every aisle helps customers find what they are looking for quickly. The layout creates an open shopping environment with wider aisles that contain no product displays.
“The layout of the store is easy to navigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for everyday necessities,” Hicks said. “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.”
The Supercenter also brings Walmart customers an expanded electronics department featuring a wide selection of the latest consumer electronics and home entertainment. The new design includes a more hands-on experience for customers with interactive displays for hi-definition Blu-ray, video gaming and portable electronics. The interactive experience makes it easier for shoppers to test new technology.
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 Tallahassee Supercenter, resulting in faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner stores.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $20,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the Tallahassee Supercenter selected America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend to receive a $5,000 grant to support the food bank and its hunger-relief efforts. A total of $10,000 in grants will be shared by nearby schools, including Godby High School, Griffin Middle School, Springwood Elementary School and Leon County Schools. The Collins Center for Public Policy received a $2,500 grant for its Sustainable Florida program, a 20-year-old public-private alliance focused on environmental stewardship and economic development.
“We are thankful for Walmart’s support during its grand opening, which clearly demonstrates its commitment to our community and to Sustainable Florida’s goal of promoting sustainable development principles through education and collaboration,” Center said.
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pastor Bill Rhodes of Killearn United Methodist Church will offer an invocation and a representative from Stubbs Educational Foundation will perform the national anthem. Students from Godby High School’s Junior ROTC program will present the colors during the ceremony. Community and business leaders will join Hicks to cut the ribbon to the new store. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
New West Palm Walmart Brings Customers Savings and Convenience
45th Street Supercenter unveils next generation of Walmart stores
WEST PALM BEACH, 11, 2009 – The new Walmart Supercenter in West Palm Beach will celebrate its grand opening this week, giving local shoppers a glimpse of the company’s next generation of store design and customer experience. The Supercenter, located at 4225 45th St., will open to customers at 8 a.m., Wednesday.
“We’re happy to welcome this latest Walmart store to West Palm Beach and are excited about the jobs it will create for local families,” said Mayor Lois J. Frankel. “We also look forward to Walmart’s furthering the company’s record of charitable giving and local involvement in our community.”
The West Palm Beach store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in Florida March 18. The other is located in Tallahassee. They are among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart logo and store design.
“At Walmart, we're committed to saving people money so they can live better,” Store Manager Cathy Foley-Franklin said. “In today's economy, our customers are looking to us to be an advocate and find solutions that save them money on their groceries and other products that their families need.”
New Features, Layout Improve Customer Experience
The new Supercenter features wider aisles, enhanced service and a layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers than ever before. The new Supercenter 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.
“In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh our stores, our merchandising and our customer experience,” said Foley-Franklin. “The improvements we’ve been making have all come together in our new store with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and a cleaner store.”
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.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The West Palm Beach Super center, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting.
Part of 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.
Supercenter Brings 350 Jobs to West Palm Beach
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 350 associates, according to Foley-Franklin.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Foley-Franklin. Like most Walmart store managers, she joined the company as an hourly associate. She joined the company in 1985, working in receiving at a store in Okeechobee.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $15,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the West Palm Beach Super center selected the Daily Bread Food Bank to receive a $5,000 grant to support its hunger-relief efforts. The Village Baptist Church will receive a $2,500 grant to support its food pantry. Other recipients include the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County, Pop Warner Little Scholars and Urban Youth Development.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Foley-Franklin. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of West Palm and neighboring communities.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Patrick Moody, pastor of The Village Baptist Church, will offer an invocation and Walmart associate Andrea Douglas will perform the national anthem. Members of the local post of Veterans of Foreign Wars will present the colors during the ceremony. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE: WMT)
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at www.walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart (NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
EDITOR’S NOTES
• An invitation-only open house for grant recipients and other VIPs is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14. It will include preview tours and check presentations to representatives of community organizations. Reporters and photographers are welcome.
• Store Manager Cathy Foley-Franklin is available for interviews and to arrange photo opportunities or tours. She can be reached at 561-683-8300.
FACT SHEET
West Palm Beach Walmart Super center
Store facts
* Location: 4225 45th Street, West Palm Beach, Fla.
* 176,311-square-foot Walmart Supercenter
* Store opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Cathy Foley-Franklin
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce and beer and wine.
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant, SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 6 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$15,000 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County
* Daily Bread Food Bank
* Pop Warner Little Scholars
* The Village Baptist Church
* Urban Youth Development
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 350 associates
* Store manager Cathy Foley-Franklin started her career with Walmart in 1985 as an hourly associate, working in receiving at a store in Okeechobee.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Florida is approximately $11.38 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
* Average wage taken February 2009. See www.walmartstores.com for details.
Wal-Mart in Florida
As of February, Wal-Mart employed 90,835 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in Florida:
* Supercenters: 161
* Discount Stores: 40
* Neighborhood Markets: 21
* Sam’s Clubs: 42
* Distribution Centers: 6
WEST PALM BEACH, 11, 2009 – The new Walmart Supercenter in West Palm Beach will celebrate its grand opening this week, giving local shoppers a glimpse of the company’s next generation of store design and customer experience. The Supercenter, located at 4225 45th St., will open to customers at 8 a.m., Wednesday.
“We’re happy to welcome this latest Walmart store to West Palm Beach and are excited about the jobs it will create for local families,” said Mayor Lois J. Frankel. “We also look forward to Walmart’s furthering the company’s record of charitable giving and local involvement in our community.”
The West Palm Beach store is one of two Walmart Supercenters opening in Florida March 18. The other is located in Tallahassee. They are among the first stores in the country to feature the new Walmart logo and store design.
“At Walmart, we're committed to saving people money so they can live better,” Store Manager Cathy Foley-Franklin said. “In today's economy, our customers are looking to us to be an advocate and find solutions that save them money on their groceries and other products that their families need.”
New Features, Layout Improve Customer Experience
The new Supercenter features wider aisles, enhanced service and a layout designed to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers than ever before. The new Supercenter 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.
“In recent months, Walmart has taken major steps to refresh our stores, our merchandising and our customer experience,” said Foley-Franklin. “The improvements we’ve been making have all come together in our new store with faster service, a friendlier shopping experience and a cleaner store.”
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.
Store Design Incorporates Environmentally Friendly Features
The West Palm Beach Super center, 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 throughout the store operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent lighting.
Part of 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.
Supercenter Brings 350 Jobs to West Palm Beach
The Supercenter plans to employ approximately 350 associates, according to Foley-Franklin.
“Working for Walmart provides a number of job opportunities and choices for so many people, from seniors looking for supplemental income to young people just starting their work experience,” said Foley-Franklin. Like most Walmart store managers, she joined the company as an hourly associate. She joined the company in 1985, working in receiving at a store in Okeechobee.
Community Organizations Benefit from Grand-Opening Grants
As part of Walmart’s commitment to the communities in which it operates, $15,000 in grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation will be presented during the grand-opening celebration. Associates at the West Palm Beach Super center selected the Daily Bread Food Bank to receive a $5,000 grant to support its hunger-relief efforts. The Village Baptist Church will receive a $2,500 grant to support its food pantry. Other recipients include the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County, Pop Warner Little Scholars and Urban Youth Development.
“As the newest neighbor in the community, we realize financial support to local organizations helps make a real difference,” said Foley-Franklin. “We are thrilled to provide these grants as part of our grand-opening celebration. I can assure you we will continue to play a leadership role in supporting the needs of West Palm and neighboring communities.”
Ribbon-Cutting Celebration 7:30 a.m., March 18
Community and business leaders will join Walmart associates at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony. Rev. Patrick Moody, pastor of The Village Baptist Church, will offer an invocation and Walmart associate Andrea Douglas will perform the national anthem. Members of the local post of Veterans of Foreign Wars will present the colors during the ceremony. Throughout the day, customers will be able to enjoy character appearances, product samples and giveaways.
About Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE: WMT)
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart Stores, supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at www.walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Wal-Mart (NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $296 million to local communities in the United States.
EDITOR’S NOTES
• An invitation-only open house for grant recipients and other VIPs is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14. It will include preview tours and check presentations to representatives of community organizations. Reporters and photographers are welcome.
• Store Manager Cathy Foley-Franklin is available for interviews and to arrange photo opportunities or tours. She can be reached at 561-683-8300.
FACT SHEET
West Palm Beach Walmart Super center
Store facts
* Location: 4225 45th Street, West Palm Beach, Fla.
* 176,311-square-foot Walmart Supercenter
* Store opens at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, following a 7:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony
* Store manager: Cathy Foley-Franklin
Store features
* Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products, fresh produce and beer and wine.
* More than 30 merchandise departments such as apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, a lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, and a full line of electronics
* Convenience services include a pharmacy, digital photo processing center and Walmart Connect Center
* Leased areas and services include a Subway restaurant, SmartStyle Family Hair Care salon and a branch of Woodforest National Bank.
* Open 6 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week
Charitable giving
$15,000 in charitable contributions to the following area organizations
* Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County
* Daily Bread Food Bank
* Pop Warner Little Scholars
* The Village Baptist Church
* Urban Youth Development
Employment
* Store plans to employ approximately 350 associates
* Store manager Cathy Foley-Franklin started her career with Walmart in 1985 as an hourly associate, working in receiving at a store in Okeechobee.
* The average wage at Walmart for full-time hourly associates in Florida is approximately $11.38 per hour*
* Walmart benefits – available to eligible full- and part-time associates – include health insurance with no lifetime maximum. Walmart also offers a 401(k) plan and profit sharing contributions, whether an associate contributes or not, store discount cards, company performance-based bonuses, stock purchase program and life insurance
* Average wage taken February 2009. See www.walmartstores.com for details.
Wal-Mart in Florida
As of February, Wal-Mart employed 90,835 associates and owned and operated the following facilities in Florida:
* Supercenters: 161
* Discount Stores: 40
* Neighborhood Markets: 21
* Sam’s Clubs: 42
* Distribution Centers: 6
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