Thursday, April 23, 2009

WalMart to Nearly Double Solar Energy Use in California

Expansion expected to generate energy equal to powering more than 1300 homes annually

  • energy per year - the equivalent of powering more than 2,600 homes;
  • producing more than 22,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year - the equivalent of taking more than 4,000 cars off the road;
  • Provide 20 to 30 percent of each location’s total electric energy needs.

“Increasing the use of solar energy is the right thing to do for the environment and makes tremendous business sense, especially in these economic conditions,” said Kimberly Sentovich, WalMart’s California regional general manager. “Thanks to Governor Schwarzenegger’s leadership, California is an excellent environment for us to grow our investment in renewable energy and help create more green jobs for America. WalMart is excited to continue collaborating with our partner BP Solar on expanding our solar footprint.”

“All over the state we are harnessing the power of the famous California sun and creating energy that is pollution free,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This project is all about taking bold action so we can see solar panels on commercial rooftops all across California while putting people to work. Today’s action helps prove that even in an economic downturn, it is possible to get serious about clean, renewable energy.”

“WalMart is a leader in implementing cost-effective clean energy solutions,” said Christopher Lau, World Resources Institute’s California Green Power Group manager. “With this commitment to expand the use of solar power, WalMart demonstrates that businesses can pursue long-term sustainability goals during tough economic times to the benefit of the environment, customers, and bottom line.”

This latest series of projects is expected to create about 130 jobs, including engineering, design, and installer technician jobs. Smaller numbers of workers will be engaged during the periods leading up to and following peak construction.

WalMart is committed to expanding its solar presence in California. As construction nears completion on this group of 10 to 20 sites, WalMart will evaluate the feasibility of expanding the program to additional sites. The company will take into account a variety of factors, including available locations, economic conditions, energy prices, as well as local, state and federal renewable energy policies and programs.

WalMart will continue learning from its renewable projects to find additional ways to achieve its goal of being supplied by 100 percent renewable energy. In November 2008, Wal-Mart announced a major purchase of wind energy that will supply up to 15 percent of the retailer’s total energy load in approximately 350 Texas stores and other facilities. In Puerto Rico, the company is planning to outfit up to five stores with solar panels this year, and expects the project to expand to 22 stores in the next five years. Additionally, WalMart de Mexico will eliminate approximately 140 tons of CO2 emissions annually through the completed installation of more than 1000 solar panels on the roof of the Bodega Aurrera Aguascalientes.

WalMart’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy projects is helping the retailer build a more diversified energy portfolio and create more opportunities for advancements in clean energy through research and innovations.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

WalMart Issues 2009 Annual Report to Shareholders

April 20, 2009Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) today issued its 2009 Annual Report to Shareholders, an executive summary of its 2009 Global Sustainability Report, and its 2009 annual proxy statement, announcing the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting to be held at 7 a.m. on June 5 at Bud Walton Arena on the campus of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Shareholders must be owners of record of Wal-Mart common stock as of the close of business on April 9, 2009 to vote at the 2009 annual shareholders’ meeting.

“Wal-Mart’s performance last year would be considered strong at any time and for any retailer, and certainly during one of the most difficult global economies in decades,” wrote Mike Duke, in his first letter to shareholders since becoming president and chief executive officer Feb. 1.

Our U.S. stores are delivering faster checkouts, a friendlier shopping experience and cleaner presentations,” he continued. “We are on the move internationally and today have more stores in more markets. People who have never shopped with us previously are now loyal customers. Sam’s continues to show the distinct value of club membership.”

Wal-Mart created 33,000 jobs in the United States last year, in addition to thousands more in markets outside the country.

“These good jobs offer competitive wages and benefits and the opportunity to advance,” he wrote. “We plan to create tens of thousands of jobs again this year.”

Duke reiterated Wal-Mart’s commitment to environmental sustainability, which he called a permanent part of the company’s culture, helping Wal-Mart reduce waste, lower costs and provide savings to customers.

There will be no part of this Company anywhere in the world that does not contribute to making Wal-Mart more sustainable,” he wrote.

In fact, Wal-Mart reduced the number of annual reports printed from more than 2.3 million last year to approximately 1.1 million this year by inviting shareholders to receive the report electronically. This reduced the company’s requirement for paper, ink and fuel needed to ship the reports.

Wal-Mart also issued an executive summary of its 2009 Global Sustainability Report, highlighting the company’s economic, environmental and social performance. The full report will be available online by the end of July.

Separately today, the company also announced that Wal-Mart board member and former President and Chief Executive Officer David Glass will retire from the board on June 5. Glass joined Wal-Mart in 1976, later succeeding the company’s founder Sam Walton as president and CEO, serving in that role from 1988 until retiring in 2000. Glass has been a member of Wal-Mart’s board since 1977.

David Glass to Retire From Wal-Mart Board of Directors

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) today announced that Wal-Mart board member and former President and Chief Executive Officer David Glass has chosen not to stand for re-election to the company’s board of directors at Wal-Mart’s annual shareholders’ meeting on June 5. Glass joined Wal-Mart as executive vice president of finance in 1976, was elected to its board a year later and named president in 1984. He succeeded the company’s founder Sam Walton as president and CEO in January 1988 and remained in that position until retiring in January 2000.

“I cannot overstate David’s contribution to our company,” said Rob Walton, chairman of the board of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. “He established a new foundation for the company’s growth, and my dad considered him to be one of the finest retail talents he had ever met.”

Glass joined Wal-Mart from Consumer’s Markets in 1976. He is credited with establishing the company’s first distribution center outside of Bentonville, and with computerized distribution, proving that the company’s geographic reach could be extended well beyond its home state. Glass was named vice chairman and chief financial officer in 1982 and was instrumental in the creation of Sam’s Club, of which there are now more than 700 worldwide, a year later. He was named president and chief operating officer in 1984 and president and CEO in 1988. That year, Glass pioneered development of the first supercenter, which is now the company’s dominant retail format. Later, under Glass’ leadership, Wal-Mart became the nation’s largest retail company and made its first foray into international markets with an acquisition in Mexico.

After leaving Wal-Mart, Glass became owner of the Kansas City Royals professional baseball team and continued to serve on the Wal-Mart board, as chairman of the Executive Committee until 2006 and, most recently, as a member of the Strategic Planning and Finance Committee.

“David joined Wal-Mart at a crucial time in the company’s history, bringing expertise in finance and distribution and pioneering the use of computer systems to link our stores and supply chain,” Walton said. “He is a great merchant who never lost the customer perspective. He encouraged frequent and open communication, and his talent for expressing his ideas was exceeded only by his talent for listening.”

“We offer our profound thanks to David for his service to our company and our board,” Walton continued. “The company benefited immeasurably from his stewardship and his leadership on the board of directors, where he served for the last 31 years.”

With Glass’ retirement, Wal-Mart’s board will consist of 15 directors, all of whom will stand for re-election to the board at Wal-Mart’s annual shareholders’ meeting on June 5. Those directors include Aida Alvarez, James Breyer, Michele Burns, Dr. James Cash, Roger Corbett, Douglas Daft, Mike Duke, Greg Penner, Allen Questrom, Lee Scott, Arne Sorenson, Jim Walton, Rob Walton, Chris Williams and Linda Wolf. Duke joined the board in November when he was appointed to succeed Scott as president and CEO of Wal-Mart in February.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

El Monte Sam's Club Opens in Familiar Location with Fresh Look

New Club focuses on sustainability, selection and value

April 20, 2009 The latest in warehouse club shopping will debut in El Monte, when the new Sam’s Club opens its doors at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, May 7. Conveniently located at 4901 N. Santa Anita Ave. at the corner of Santa Anita and Lower Azusa Road., the Club re-design incorporates sustainable features including daylight-harvesting skylights and an exterior bio cell water collection system. The freshly designed club will also make regular donations to local food banks. Business, Advantage and Collegiate Sam’s Club Members looking for ways to save in today’s economy will find exceptional values on products from office supplies to fresh produce and $4 generic prescriptions.

This facility, originally opened in 1987 and acquired by Sam’s Club in 1994, was razed June of last year to make room for a larger facility with a wider selection of merchandise. Members will notice that many of the products and services in the offering are specifically designed to meet the needs of the local community including a wider selection of specialty Asian and Latino products.

“Our local team is very excited to welcome back loyal members and introduce new small business owners and shoppers from the surrounding communities to our new facility” Club Manager Becky Jewett.

Familiar Faces will Greet Shoppers
The Club plans to employ approximately 215 associates. Sam’s Club worked with the 160 founding associates to place them at other locations during construction. Club Manager Becky Jewett started her career in 1990 as a cashier (prior to the Sam’s Club acquisition of the Pace warehouse club). She was named general manager in 2005 and is a resident of Corona.

Grand-Opening Ceremony to Feature Celebrities, Product Demonstrations.
The Sam’s Club, located at 4901 Santa Anita Avenue in El Monte, grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony begins Thursday, May 7 at 8:30 a.m. A special sneak preview and grant presentation will take place Wednesday, May 6 at 4 p.m. Those shopping on grand-opening day will have the opportunity to see a number of celebrities among the best in their chosen fields. Chef Wolfgang Puck and exercise expert Denise Austin will make appearances, as well as famed fresh mozzarella maker Mimmo Bruno.

El Monte Sam’s Club: Exceptional Value for Business, Home and Life
Jewett says the El Monte Sam’s Club will now offer a number of new amenities including a gas station, a pharmacy featuring $4 and $10 prescriptions as well as great deals on branded prescriptions, a full café and a larger deli department featuring rotisserie chicken. The Club also focused its marketing efforts to cater its merchandise selection to the immediate area, by adding more Asian items, increasing the amount of Latino foods and providing a larger selection of high-end products including electronics, patio sets, barbecue grills, furniture and sports equipment.

Sam’s Club Membership provides superior access to merchandise and services for the business owner, homeowner or college student seeking the best value all under one roof. Small business owners and operators will also have access to additional services to help increase productivity and profitability including health insurance solutions, merchant and credit card processing and marketing solutions and numerous other benefits for their business provided by third party vendors.

Sam’s Club Commitment to Sustainability
In keeping with the Sam’s Club commitment to the environment, the new Club was constructed with energy-efficient technology and environmentally friendly features to reduce energy and water consumption and minimize waste.

One of the ways the new Sam’s Club eliminates energy waste is with daylight-harvesting skylights that reduce the amount of energy required to light the store by up to 75 percent daily. While Sam’s is not open 24 hours, it is occupied 24 hours a day. During the hours when the store is closed, the light level is reduced by more than 50 percent, also reducing energy levels used. LED lighting throughout the club, including in the cooler/freezer box doors and jewelry counter, operates 70 percent more efficiently than traditional fluorescent light. (For a full list of sustainable features see the Sustainability Fact Sheet).

Sam’s Club Celebrates Community Commitment
As part of Sam’s Club commitment to give back to the communities it serves, associates from the El Monte Club have selected several local organizations to receive a total of $19,000 in grants from the WalMart Foundation including Junior Achievement of Southern California, America Cancer Society and the City of El Monte. (For a full list of grant recipients see the Club Fact Sheet below.)

The new Sam’s Club will also fight hunger in the area by making regular product donations to local food banks. The program is part of a partnership between Sam’s Club and Feeding America. Sam’s Club locations across the nation regularly donate perishable food items to area hunger relief agencies, helping fight hunger in their communities and reducing food waste. Last year, Sam’s Club donated more than 13 million pounds to Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief charity.

Gifts for Every Occasion
The new El Monte Sam’s Club offers a treasure-hunt shopping experience complete with an extensive inventory of more than 4,000 affordable essential and luxury items just in time for Mother’s Day. Some “must haves” include designer apparel, purses, sunglasses, quality jewelry, crystal and collectibles. For the home, fresh flowers, kitchen appliances, dinnerware and home accessories are also popular.

Sam's Club Names Linda Hefner Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Replenishment

April 15, 2009 Sam’s Club announced today the appointment of Linda Hefner as executive vice president of merchandising and replenishment. Hefner will report to Brian Cornell, president and chief executive officer of Sam’s Club, and will begin her new role effective May 15, 2009.

“Linda has a wealth of experience and successes across key and diverse merchandise categories that will complement the team’s focus on quality and value,” said Cornell. “In addition, her perspective on the consumer packaged goods industry, keen marketing insights and deep understanding of consumer needs will augment the strengths of the Sam’s Club senior leadership team. We are excited to have her on the team.”

Hefner will be responsible for overall merchandising strategy, product development and sourcing.

Hefner joined Walmart U.S. in May 2007 and currently serves as executive vice president and general manager of the Home business for Walmart U.S. Under her leadership, the Home team redefined the merchandise assortment by focusing on exclusive national and private-label brands, quality, and enhanced in-store presentation that resulted in strong positive comps.

Prior to joining Walmart, Hefner was executive vice president of Global Strategy and Business Development at Kraft Foods. In this capacity, she was responsible for developing Kraft’s corporate business strategy including merger and acquisition activities around the world. Prior to Kraft, she held multiple positions at Sara Lee Corporation during her fourteen years there (1989-2003), including group and division CEO roles for several of its apparel businesses. Linda grew revenues for these businesses through increased product innovation and consumer marketing and drove simultaneous cost reduction in manufacturing, global sourcing and logistics.

Hefner holds an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, as well as a B.S. and M.S. from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas.

Hefner's successor as executive vice president and general manager of the Home business for Walmart U.S. will be named at a later date.

Sam’s Club reported annual revenues of more than $46 billion in fiscal year 2009 and operates more than 600 warehouse club locations across the U.S.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Memorial Day Parade gets corporate boost

Apr. 13- Organizers of the 19th annual Memorial Day Parade received a check from a faithful sponsor Thursday morning.


Joe Leonard, chairman of the Memorial Day Parade Committee and former sergeant in the U.S. Army, accepted a $3,000 check from Wal-Mart, which has contributed money to the parade since its inception. Wal-Mart also presented checks to nine other organizations.


"If it were not for the funds and the corporate citizenship displayed by Wal-Mart, we would simply not be able to do this," Leonard said. "We can't thank them enough. They have always rolled out the red carpet for us. Wal-Mart is at the top of the list because they are the major financial contributor to this thing."


Much of the same will be back for this year's parade, which starts from the Big Chair downtown and travels to Veterans Memorial Park.


Those who attend the Memorial Day Parade on May 25 can expect to see 100 U.S. flags that have flown over the U.S. Capitol at one time or another being carried by military personnel. A helicopter also will land during a ceremony, and paratroopers will jump into Cushwa Stadium.


"I sincerely invite the people in our community and other communities to come on this day," Leonard said. "If you are a veteran, let us put an identifying name tag on you where you can be recognized."


Leonard announced Thursday that Gov. Bev Perdue will be on hand to present 12 plaques to the families of fallen soldiers. "The governor has repeatedly been invited here for 18 years," Leonard said. "This is going to be the first time. I think it's awesome she is going to put it on her schedule."


U.S. Army Gen. Lloyd Austin of the 18th Airborne Corps will serve as the keynote speaker and parade marshal.


Leonard said free hot dogs will be provided to the public while supplies last. Free food will be provided to veterans courtesy of another faithful sponsor, Jed's Barbecue in Thomasville.

WalMart pitches in with 'Cleanup'

Apr. 14-WalMart associates have answered the call to help in this year's annual "Great Columbus Cleanup" sponsored by Keep Columbus Beautiful in cooperation with the Cleanup/Beautification Taskforce of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce.


"We have 10 associate volunteers who will be out today cleaning up the green space around the store as well as the property to the southeast owned by Leo Thiele," said Kris Greenlee, electronics department manager. "We heard about this project from Karla Schaecher at the chamber of commerce and decided it was time for us to step up and help out with this project."


WalMart associates were to begin their work at 1 p.m. today, starting out at Thiele's driveway located just southeast of the store, and picking up litter east to the fence line of the Thiele subdivision and through the pasture on the north side of the WalMart building.


"I'm so proud of everyone at Wal-Mart who helps out and volunteers all around our community in the schools and food pantry and so many other places," she said.


Keep America Beautiful's "Great American Cleanup" is, according to the nationwide organization, the nation's largest community improvement program.


The program runs annually from March 1 through May 31 with an estimated three million people involved each year.


Keep Columbus Beautiful in cooperation with The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Cleanup/Beautification Taskforce has scheduled community clean-up activities through remaining days of April, including events in observance of Earth Day April 22.


"We so appreciate all the people who are joining together for this year's Great Columbus Cleanup," said Schaecher, office manager at the chamber. "Kris Greenlee heard about the Great Columbus Cleanup and called the office to learn more about it, and we were very excited too when we learned that 30 students will be volunteering to do a graffiti removal event April 25."


Community volunteers are encouraged to participate in the remaining events which include:


-9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday: an Electronics Recycling Event will be held by Keep Columbus Beautiful at the Columbus Family Resource Center, 3020 18th St.


-Noon-3p.m., Sunday: Trash Trek on 33rd Avenue beginning at the Chamber & finishing at Super Saver. This will include Pawnee Park if enough volunteers join the effort.


-Noon-4 p.m. April 22: WalMart associates will work to clean up the arterial beginning at the traffic light west of the store and continuing to Loup's power house or possibly 18th Avenue depending on the weather and the number of volunteers.


-April 25: Motorist Litter Awareness Day. Banks and fast-food drive-throughs will offer litter bags from Keep Columbus Beautiful.


-April 25: Graffiti Removal event. A group of 30 Columbus High School students have volunteered to work on this project. Property owners who are interested in having graffiti removed from their property or structures should call 563-4224.


-Noon-3 p.m. April 26: Trash Trek on 23rd Street from Goodwill Industries to Tractor Supply Company (TSC). Volunteers are encouraged to participate. For more information, contact Schaecher at 564-2769.


Schaecher encourages leaders of local youth groups, civic and other community groups to call for information on helping with the various Columbus Cleanup events.


"We appreciate all the community leadership who are promoting the Great Columbus Cleanup," Schaecher said. "If many will get involved in a little way it can result in a much larger impact that a small number of people trying to such a big job."

Sam's Club Names Linda Hefner Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Replenishment

Sam’s Club announced today the appointment of Linda Hefner as executive vice president of merchandising and replenishment. Hefner will report to Brian Cornell, president and chief executive officer of Sam’s Club, and will begin her new role effective May 15, 2009.

“Linda has a wealth of experience and successes across key and diverse merchandise categories that will complement the team’s focus on quality and value,” said Cornell. “In addition, her perspective on the consumer packaged goods industry, keen marketing insights and deep understanding of consumer needs will augment the strengths of the Sam’s Club senior leadership team. We are excited to have her on the team.”

Hefner will be responsible for overall merchandising strategy, product development and sourcing.

Hefner joined Walmart U.S. in May 2007 and currently serves as executive vice president and general manager of the Home business for Walmart U.S. Under her leadership, the Home team redefined the merchandise assortment by focusing on exclusive national and private-label brands, quality, and enhanced in-store presentation that resulted in strong positive comps.

Prior to joining Walmart, Hefner was executive vice president of Global Strategy and Business Development at Kraft Foods. In this capacity, she was responsible for developing Kraft’s corporate business strategy including merger and acquisition activities around the world. Prior to Kraft, she held multiple positions at Sara Lee Corporation during her fourteen years there (1989-2003), including group and division CEO roles for several of its apparel businesses. Linda grew revenues for these businesses through increased product innovation and consumer marketing and drove simultaneous cost reduction in manufacturing, global sourcing and logistics.

Hefner holds an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, as well as a B.S. and M.S. from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas.

Hefner's successor as executive vice president and general manager of the Home business for Walmart U.S. will be named at a later date.

Sam’s Club reported annual revenues of more than $46 billion in fiscal year 2009 and operates more than 600 warehouse club locations across the U.S.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Mike Duke Appears on the Today show with Matt Lauer

WalMart President and CEO Mike Duke appeared on the "Today" Show on Wednesday, April 15. The segments were taped at the King of Prussia, Penn., store. Mike’s discussion with Today Show host Matt Lauer focused on consumer behavior in the current economy, as seen through the eyes of Walmart shoppers, and what Walmart is doing to help customers save money and live better.

We are working hard every day to give our customers what they want in a retailer right now. Whether it’s fresh food or popular brand items, we’re helping customers afford the quality products and services they need for their families. And, we’ll create thousands of job opportunities at WalMart this year - for students looking for work experience; seniors looking for extra income; or associates looking for a career.




Tuesday, April 14, 2009

WalMart's Earth Month Efforts Circle the Globe

Retailer unveils eco friendly products, mobilizes workforce and engages global communities

WalMart is celebrating global Earth Month by demonstrating its commitment to a greener environment around the world. WalMart will unveil a number of earth friendly products, partner with local governments and NGOs, sponsor community activities and engage its 2.2 million associates worldwide in promoting a cleaner, safer, healthier, environment.

According to Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Wal-Mart International, “Sustainability is a part of the everyday lives of associates who work at our Supercenters, Bodegas, Todo Dias, Sam’s Clubs and offices across the around the world. We know we can make the greatest impact on our communities by offering eco friendly products and by supporting sustainable projects that are important to our customers.”

Throughout Earth Month, WalMart is unveiling numerous sustainable products around the world including the following:

* In India, Easy Day* stores launched flip flops made of 100-percent recyclable materials.
* In China, WalMart is offering a Mainstays compressed pillow, resulting in savings in transportation costs and shelf space.
* WalMart Puerto Rico launched fashionable, reusable shopping bags with artwork from the Ponce Art Museum and is donating proceeds from the sales of the bag to the museum.
* In partnership with Unilever, WalMart Argentina also launched a special Earth Month edition reusable shopping bag.
* WalMart Canada announced its move to compaction in powdered laundry detergent.

WalMart is partnering with communities around the world to host environmentally friendly activities throughout the month:

* In Japan, Seiyu is co-sponsoring “Earth Day Orange Project” to regenerate abandoned tangerine farms. Seiyu customers have been invited to fruit picking tours at tangerine farms and the juice made from the harvested tangerines will be sold at Earth Day Tokyo 2009 later this month.
* In the United States, WalMart‘s “Earth Day, Every Day” School Challenge will recognize schools and student bodies across the nation that are taking active strides to create a greener, healthier planet.
* In China, WalMart and P&G partnered with NGO, China Green Foundation, on “One Million WalMart Customers for a Greener China” project to plant trees.

In all of the markets in which WalMart does business, the company is partnering with governments at all levels to continue to discuss ways to improve the environment. WalMart Mexico will host store events with government officials to educate them on WalMart’s sustainability initiatives. Puerto Rico held a sustainability forum with government agencies, suppliers, media, NGOs and professors, creating a multisector sustainability alliance to establish sustainability goals for Puerto Rico.

Through its stores and associates, WalMart also supported Earth Month. In China, Argentina, Canada and Brazil, WalMart celebrated Earth Hour by reducing sales floor lighting and external store lights. Associates also made voluntary pledges to cut lighting at their homes. This month, WalMart expanded its Personal Sustainability Projects (PSP) program, a voluntary associate-driven program, to Central America and Japan.

“Earth Month is just one month out of 12 that Wal-Mart takes sustainability very seriously around the world,” said McMillon. “WalMart’s global environmental goals are simple and straightforward: We want to be supplied 100 percent by renewable energy; to create zero waste; and to sell products that sustain our resources and the environment.”

* In India, Easy Day retail locations are owned and operated by Bharti Retail. WalMart India provides technical support for these stores through a franchise agreement.

Walmart Accelerates and Broadens Sustainability Commitments with Earth Month Campaign

Retailer Continues Commitment to Bring Budget-Friendly Prices to Earth-Friendly Products

April 13, 2009—According to a recent study , only 41 percent of Americans cited protecting the environment as a top priority, down from 56 percent last year. However, in a time where every penny counts, Walmart is redoubling its efforts to prove there doesn’t have to be a trade-off between caring for the environment and watching your wallet.

“At Walmart, we are accelerating and broadening our commitment to bring Earth-friendly living to everyday life, and recognize the importance of offering these choices at budget-friendly prices,” said Matt Kistler, senior vice president of sustainability at Walmart. “At a time when shoppers around the world are watching every penny, this is the time to save money and save the planet – two goals that work together.”

In its second consecutive year, Walmart’s Earth Month (April 2009) is bigger than before and Walmart makes it easy and affordable for its 200 million shoppers in the U.S. to make choices that can have a positive impact on the health of our planet. In celebration of Earth Month, here are a few ways in which Walmart is helping shoppers make eco friendly choices at budget–friendly prices:

* In addition to more than 500 Earth-friendly products available at Walmart stores and online at walmart.com/green, during April 2009, ten products that are less than $10 are being highlighted, including the following items exclusive to Walmart:
o Earth Tees ($4 to $6 each): Available exclusively at Walmart and Walmart. online store, these 100 percent organic cotton t-shirts are available in sizes for the entire family.
o 10-Pack Recycled Hangers ($1.25): These clothes hangers are made from 100 percent resin from various sources, including apparel hangers from Walmart stores.
o Walmart Reusable Bag ($1.00): These bags are made from 85 percent recycled content and hold more than twice the amount of an average plastic bag. In addition, Walmart can recycle each bag at the end of its life cycle.
* For a complete list of the 10 highlighted products in the U.S. that are less than $10, please visit marketwire.com
* At walmart.com/green, shoppers can learn tips for saving money while caring for the planet, and interact with other Walmart shoppers by submitting suggestions for easy ways to go green.
* In addition to a national television advertising campaign, Walmart is supporting Earth Month 2009 with online banner advertisements that demonstrate in a fun, unique way the impact that certain eco-friendly products can have if all 200 million Walmart shoppers in the U.S. purchased them.

Walmart is also sponsoring the “Earth Day, Every Day School Challenge,” in the U.S. to recognize schools across the country that are taking active strides to create a greener, healthier planet. Entrants will have until May 1 to submit a 200-word essay, describing the eco-friendly activities that the school they are nominating has enacted in the past 24 months. The twenty finalists will each be awarded a $500 Walmart gift card and invited to compete for the grand prize: a $20,000 grant from Walmart to be used toward the continuation of the winning school’s eco-friendly projects.

Helping shoppers save money on Earth-friendly products is just one of the many ways Walmart is committed to the environment. As part of its ongoing efforts, Walmart has set numerous environmental goals, including the following:

* To cut plastic bag waste by one-third by 2013, which is estimated to eliminate more than 135 million pounds of plastic waste globally.
* To work with suppliers to reduce packaging in its supply chain by five percent by 2013, which could prevent millions of pounds of trash from reaching landfills and could stop 667,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere – the equivalent of taking 213,000 trucks off the road each year.
* To double the efficiency of its private hybrid and alternatively-fueled trucking fleet by 2015, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions and fuel use.

In addition, several Walmart initiatives around the world are having a positive impact on the planet:

* In Mexico, Walmart is adding waste water treatment plants to all new stores and retrofitting existing stores.
* Walmart stores in the United Kingdom now divert 65 percent of store waste from the landfill.
* Walmart China has financed the installation of solar panels for 322 households in the Panjiabang Village in Jiaxing Zhejiang Province.

WalMart Supports Wesleyan's SIFE Go Green Efforts

West Virginia Wesleyan College issued the following news release:


WalMart is the latest business corporation to support West Virginia Wesleyan's Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) Go Green efforts. Buckhannon WalMart co managers Rex Dotson and Lisa Pratt presented a $2,000 check to SIFE members on April 3.


SIFE and Region VII Planning and Development Council sponsored the first state-wide Go Green Conference on Wesleyan's campus on February 21. Over 600 persons and over 40 vendors from throughout West Virginia and surrounding states attended the event. The goal of the convention was to inform and involve 'Go Green' attendees in environmental sustainability issues, while challenging everyone to recognize the economic benefits as well as their energy footprint and improve overall energy use. WalMart's contribution was used to cover advertising expenses for the event.


In addition to WalMart, other corporate sponsors for the Go Green Conference were Pratt & Whitney, Mountain State Expo and Services, and WBOY-TV. Region VII provided financial assistance through a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission.


The success of the first Go Green Convention helped Wesleyan to be one of two West Virginia SIFE teams to win a regional championship. It was Wesleyan's seventh regional title in nine years. The team will advance to national competition in Philadelphia May 10-12.


SIFE is a global organization active in more than 47 countries and is funded by financial contributions from corporations, entrepreneurs, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. SIFE teams are led by faculty advisors and are challenged to develop community outreach projects that reach the organization's educational topics: market economics, success skills, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, business ethics, and environmental sustainability.


There are 1,700 SIFE teams globally and 950 in the United States. Wesleyan's SIFE team is led by Dr. Scott Bellamy, associate professor of economics, and Tracie Dodson, assistant professor of business

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Disaster services get $20,000 grant

Apr. 5- American Red Cross of Upper Northumberland County will receive a $20,000 grant from the WalMart Foundation to increase disaster response supplies and improve disaster response capability.


Specifically, the funds will be used to recruit and train disaster workers and responders in an effort to improve disaster services. The Upper Northumberland Chapter is one of 128 Red Cross chapters awarded funds as part of the WalMart Foundation's initiative to support disaster response and capacity building projects nationwide.


"Receiving the WalMart grant is a wonderful benefit to our chapter. It will enable us to provide programs and services to our communities not before possible," said Tom Szulanczyk, chapter executive director.


The Wal-Mart Foundation and the American Red Cross have created a $5 million Disaster Readiness and Capacity Building Grant Program. This grant will benefit communities across the country that reside near Red Cross chapters located in remote areas that often become isolated during times of disaster and whose chartered jurisdictions serve less than one million people -- like Upper Northumberland County.


The grant will be used to purchase cots, blankets and other mass care supplies. It will also provide funding for disaster preparedness training and volunteer recruitment.


The WalMart officials said the foundation is ready to help and to work with local leaders, community organizations and elected officials in the instance of a disaster. With a long-standing commitment to supporting local disaster relief efforts, the WalMart Foundation works with the American Red Cross and other organizations in an effort to help its neighbors and communities during times of need.


"We are appreciative to the WaMart Foundation for this much needed grant to enhance our local chapters' ability to serve their communities," said Michael Brown, vice president of corporate and foundation partnerships at the American Red Cross. "Because of their generous support, we will be better positioned to prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters in communities across the country."

WalMart Supports Wesleyan's SIFE Go Green Efforts

West Virginia Wesleyan College issued the following news release:


WalMart is the latest business corporation to support West Virginia Wesleyan's Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) Go Green efforts. Buckhannon WalMart co-managers Rex Dotson and Lisa Pratt presented a $2,000 check to SIFE members on April 3.


SIFE and Region VII Planning and Development Council sponsored the first state-wide Go Green Conference on Wesleyan's campus on February 21. Over 600 persons and over 40 vendors from throughout West Virginia and surrounding states attended the event. The goal of the convention was to inform and involve 'Go Green' attendees in environmental sustainability issues, while challenging everyone to recognize the economic benefits as well as their energy footprint and improve overall energy use. WalMart's contribution was used to cover advertising expenses for the event.


In addition to WalMart, other corporate sponsors for the Go Green Conference were Pratt & Whitney, Mountain State Expo and Services, and WBOY-TV. Region VII provided financial assistance through a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission.


The success of the first Go Green Convention helped Wesleyan to be one of two West Virginia SIFE teams to win a regional championship. It was Wesleyan's seventh regional title in nine years. The team will advance to national competition in Philadelphia May 10-12.


SIFE is a global organization active in more than 47 countries and is funded by financial contributions from corporations, entrepreneurs, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. SIFE teams are led by faculty advisors and are challenged to develop community outreach projects that reach the organization's educational topics: market economics, success skills, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, business ethics, and environmental sustainability.


There are 1,700 SIFE teams globally and 950 in the United States. Wesleyan's SIFE team is led by Dr. Scott Bellamy, associate professor of economics, and Tracie Dodson, assistant professor of business.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

WalMart tests new hybrid trucks, alternative fuels

WalMart Stores Inc. announced it will test two new types of heavy-duty commercial hybrid trucks and two different alternatively fueled heavy- duty trucks as a part of the company's efforts to build on its progress in developing a more sustainable trucking fleet.

The new trucks include a full-propulsion ArvinMeritor hybrid that will initially operate in the Detroit area. This dual-mode diesel- electric hybrid is believed to be the first vehicle of its type. Also, fifteen trucks operating in the Buckeye, Ariz. distribution center near Phoenix, will be converted to run on Reclaimed Grease Fuel, made with the waste brown cooking grease from WalMart stores.
In addition, the remaining trucks located in the Buckeye distribution center will operate on an 80/20 blend of biodiesel made of reclaimed yellow waste grease. Five Peterbilt Model 386 heavy-duty hybrid trucks with diesel-electric hybrid power systems developed by Eaton Corp. and PAC- CAR, will be based in Dallas, Houston, Apple Valley, Calif., Atlanta and the Washington/ Baltimore regions. Four Peterbilt Model 386 trucks and one yard truck, which operates only on the distribution center property, will operate on liquid natural gas.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Walmart Helps Families Enjoy Easter With Dinner For Eight For Under $35

April 6, 2009 – As the Easter Bunny gets ready for his big day, Walmart today announced new Rollback prices on must-haves for Easter dinner – in addition to its everyday low prices on food, toys and Easter décor - ensuring that he doesn’t hop by any homes this year.

According to the National Retail Federation, consumers plan to spend an average of $117 on Easter merchandise this year, with 32 percent going toward the purchase of food. However, while consumers will continue to buy traditional Easter items such as candy and children’s toys, many are opting to save by preparing their holiday meal and entertaining friends and family at home, citing concerns about the current state of the economy.

To help Americans keep their holiday traditions alive while staying within their budgets, Walmart is serving up more savings on meal items likely to be in shopping carts in the days leading up to Easter. Walmart shoppers can feed a family of eight a turkey or ham dinner with all the fixings for under $35, including two bottles of wine:

Turkey Dinner – $34.56

* 1 – 14-16 lb. hen turkey ($0.88/lb.) -- $14.08
* 2 lbs. fresh asparagus ($1.77/lb.) -- $3.54
* 4 lbs. sweet potatoes ($0.50/lb.) -- $2
* 2 cans Delmonte corn (14.5 oz each) -- $1.50
* Dinner rolls (24 ct.) -- $2.50
* 2 bottles Oak Leaf wine (750 ml) -- $5.94
* Edwards pie (25.5 to 36 oz.) -- $5

Ham Dinner – $34.40

* 1 – 7-8 lb. half spiral slice ham ($1.58/lb.) -- $12.64
* Green Bean Casserole:
o 2 cans Delmonte green beans (14.5 oz. each) -- $1.50
o 1 can Great Value mushroom soup (10.75 oz. each) -- $0.94
o 1 container Great Value french fried onion rings (6 oz.) -- $2.50
* Betty Crocker scalloped potatoes twin pack (9.8 oz.) -- $2
* Dinner rolls (24 ct.) -- $2.50
* 2 bottles Oak Leaf wine (750 ml) -- $5.94
* Bakery angel food cake (15 oz.) -- $4
* Strawberries (16 oz.) -- $1.50
* Great Value whipped topping -- $0.88

Customers looking for children’s Easter gifts will find them at Walmart’s affordable prices, while supplies last, such as:

* $1 – Assortments of giant lollipops, 12-ct. bright plastic eggs, large bubble wands, kites and sidewalk chalk.
* $5 – Fisher Price Little People Easter Tube, Mr. or Mrs. Potato Head "Spud Bunny", Play-Doh 12-pack and Jr. Sports Baseball racket or golf sets.
* $10 – Giant plush Floppy Pals, Littlest Pet Shop on the Go Bag, and $10 video games for Nintendo DS and DSi, Wii, Xbox and PS2.

With 64 percent of consumers planning to shop at discount retailers for their Easter merchandise this year, according to the National Retail Federation, it’s our job to make sure that when they come to Walmart they’ll find great prices on items they need and care about most,” said Jack Sinclair, executive vice president, Grocery, at Walmart Stores US. “With Walmart savings, families don’t have to compromise on Easter traditions.”

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Sam's Club Savings Drive To Help America's Small Businesses Succeed

Associates work to find $270 million in savings for Small Businesses to lower their costs.

April 2, 2009— Sam’s Club is fighting for America’s small business owners and operators and beginning today, thousands of associates from all of its 600 clubs across the country are committing to visit 100,000 small businesses to help them identify ways they can lower their costs and succeed. The Sam’s Club Small Business Savings Drive is part of a campaign that culminates during National Small Business Week May 22. Associates are working for small business owners to find at least $270 million in savings by comparing the prices of similar business related products to items available at Sam’s Club.

The success of small business is key to our nation’s economic recovery and we want to be part of the solution,” said Cindy Davis, executive vice president, Membership, Marketing and Ecommerce at Sam’s Club. “Pennies matter more than ever for today’s small business owner and helping them find as much or more than thousands of dollars in savings has a real impact and can mean keeping a new employee, expanding or financing a start-up.”

Last month, President Barack Obama outlined a small business recovery program that included tax, and spending provisions of more than $1 billion including $720 million for Small Business Administration (SBA) programs, such as new loan guarantees, which have declined 57 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to last, according to the SBA. Over the last decade, small businesses have generated 60 to 80 percent of the new jobs annually and employ about half of U.S. workers.

The Sam's Club Small Business Savings Drive is a great example of the opportunity large companies and small businesses have to work together to spur economic development and job creation, at a time when so many small businesses are affected by the tough economy," said Aida Alvarez, former administrator of the Small Business Administration and board member of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Small business owners and operators as well as entrepreneurs starting a business can call 800-726-7258 to request help and arrange a visit from Sam’s Club associates locally. In addition, online at samsclub.com/smallbusiness there are examples of cost comparisons savings, related resources and tips from business owners.

Last year, during National Small Business Week, Sam’s Club conducted a pilot cost comparison program resulting in 5,300 invoice comparisons and identified more than $3.5 million in savings on products available in its clubs. Sam’s Club is guaranteeing it can help small business save and will refund any business membership at any time should it not be able to demonstrate savings to the satisfaction of the member. In addition, Sam’s Club is offering a complimentary one-day membership to any small business good through May 25, 2009.

During National Small Business Week May 18-22, Sam’s Club will work shoulder-to-shoulder with small business owners nationwide as part of an annual appreciation event for its business members that includes field associates, Home Office management and executive leaders.

Sam’s Club estimates more than 600,000 small business owners or their employees walk through its doors everyday. In addition to products, Sam’s Club also offers small business members access to affordable health insurance and other services such, as merchant credit card processing solutions and time-saving solutions including online ordering through Click n’ Pull.

About Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club is a division of WalMart Stores, Inc., (NYSE:WMT). The first Sam’s Club opened its doors in Midwest City, Okla., in 1983. Today, Sam’s Club serves more than 47 million U.S. Members with locations nationwide and in Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Sam’s Club offers exceptional values on merchandise and services for business owners and consumers.

WalMart Supports Communities around the Globe with $423 Million in Charitable Contributions

Company and its domestic and international Foundations increased donations to charities by more than 25 percent over last year; anticipates 1.5 million hours of U.S. associate volunteerism this year.

April 2, 2009 – While the economic crisis continues to impact communities around the globe, WalMart’s long-term commitment to giving back locally has made the company – and its domestic and international Foundations – trusted sources of funding for much-needed community programs, especially those that address hunger, homelessness, education, job training and other basic needs.* The company today announced that it stepped up charitable giving globally from February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009 (FYE 2009) with more than $423 million in cash and in kind gifts, an $85.6 million increase over its global giving in the previous year.

Now more than ever, our customers, our associates and countless charitable organizations in communities around the globe are looking to WalMart to support those hit hardest by the financial crisis. But, we must all work together to make a difference,” said Margaret McKenna, president of the WalMart Foundation. “During these tough economic times, we know we have a responsibility to continually look for ways to increase our giving and focus our local contributions towards organizations that can do the most good – and have a lasting, positive impact in communities around the globe.”

WalMart’s FYE 2009 giving breakdown:

* In the U.S., WalMart gave more than $378 million in cash and in-kind gifts, up from $296 million in 2007.
* In international markets, Wal-Mart gave $45.5 million in cash and in-kind gifts, up from $41 million in 2007.
* Globally, WalMart’s customers and associates gave more than $106 million through in-store giving programs that benefit local charities.
* In total, WalMart, its Foundations, its customers and its associates supported communities around the globe with nearly $530 million in charitable contributions during FYE 2009.

In the U.S., WalMart is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those on Main Street who have turned to organizations like Feeding America to make ends meet. For example, WalMart’s food donation program has provided more than 33 million pounds of fresh produce, meat and other nutritious foods to U.S. food banks. These in-kind contributions have an estimated value of more than $85 million. Walmart stores and Sam’s Club locations remain on track to donate 90 million pounds of food by November 2009.

In addition, Walmart and Sam’s Club associates in the U.S. donated more than one million volunteer hours last fiscal year, evidence of the company’s on-going efforts to encourage community service. Recently, the company expanded its volunteerism program through mywalmart.com, a new Web site designed to help associates connect with one another, get involved in their communities and find local volunteer opportunities. The Wal-Mart Foundation also continues its Volunteerism Always Pays program, which awards grant dollars to qualifying organizations in recognition of associate volunteer hours. The company anticipates that associates will log 1.5 million volunteer hours this fiscal year.

“More and more nonprofits are struggling to meet their operating expenses and, as a result, are likely to cut staff,” said Professor Andrew Hahn, director of the Sillerman Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy at Brandeis University. “Ultimately this translates into very difficult times for the people served by nonprofits. Wal-Mart associates and customers can continue filling gaps by volunteering in their local communities— there are ways to give back, especially with your time and skills, that don’t involve writing a check. Help comes in many forms.”

While WalMart is increasing efforts to help address changing community needs, it continues to support U.S. initiatives focused on education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness all of which have historically been focus areas for the company and its U.S. Foundation. Last year, WalMart and the WalMart Foundation gave $248 million in those areas to numerous national and local charities including the Institute for Higher Education Policy ($4.1 million), YouthBuild ($5 million), Children’s Miracle Network ($4.7 million), The Salvation Army ($3 million), Special Olympics ($3.6 million), the National Urban League ($1 million) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation ($3.4 million). Wal-Mart also continues to support disaster relief efforts and programs for military families.

About Philanthropy at WalMart Stores, Inc.
WalMart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and the WalMart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the WalMart Foundation funds initiatives focused on creating opportunities in education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. From February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009, WalMart – and its domestic and international Foundations – gave more than $423 million in cash and in kind gifts globally.

WalMart Foundation Donates $5 Million To Help Red Cross Chapters Prepare For Disasters

April 1, 2009The WalMart Foundation has awarded $5 million to the American Red Cross to strengthen disaster preparedness in 128 communities in 44 states and three U.S. territories.

The funds will expand the reach of the Red Cross in places that are often isolated during times of disaster. The donation will be used to purchase more than 55,000 blankets and 15,000 cots, provide chapters with nearly 150 shelter trailers and train more than 1,000 Red Cross staff and volunteers.

The goal of the disaster readiness effort funded by this donation is to ensure that smaller, rural communities can respond to the needs of its residents in the first few days of a disaster. The funds from the WalMart Foundation grant are being allocated to Red Cross chapters in amounts ranging from $10,000 to $140,000.

“Thanks to the generosity of the WalMart Foundation, we will increase our capacity to serve people in the rural Alabama counties and to be there to respond after a disaster, whether it is a house fire or a hurricane,” says Leisle Mims, Chapter Executive Director at the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter. The Alabama Gulf Coast Regional Counties are receiving a $76,000 grant from the WalMart Foundation to strengthen disaster response capabilities in what is a highly disaster prone region.

The grants to Red Cross chapters will help the Red Cross acquire and maintain material and human resources necessary to manage relief operations, and will also be used to improve community relationships necessary to manage relief operations. Being prepared with trained people and adequate supplies on hand prior to a disaster event can help save lives, time and money.

“At WalMart, helping communities is what we do every day, and when a crisis strikes, that charge becomes an even greater priority,” said Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation. “Our long-standing support of the American Red Cross is evidence of our commitment to supporting local disaster relief efforts. We are hopeful that the $5 million we have given to local Red Cross chapters across the country will result in the swift, effective response to disasters, and the development of resources before disaster strikes.”

Wal-Mart is one of American Red Cross’s most committed corporate partners with donations from its foundation, stores and clubs exceeding $10 million over the past two years.

“The American Red Cross is grateful for the WalMart Foundation’s commitment to making sure our communities are prepared when disaster strikes.” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “These investments will help save lives and help ensure that we can meet the demands of responding to disasters even in today’s challenging economic climate.”

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission.

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 creating opportunities in education, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness.
In 2007, Walmart, Sam’s Club and the Wal-Mart Foundation gave $296 million to communities across the United States.