Facts:

• At the end of FY24, employed approximately 2.1 million people worldwide
• Operates close to 11,000 outlets in 24 countries
• World’s largest company by revenue with over US$670 billion revenue in 2024
• Operates hypermarkets, discount department, and grocery stalls

Global links:

• First set up in Arkansas, then expanded to other US states, then Mexico, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Britain
• China is its largest producer
• Cheap labour from Bangladesh

Positive effects:

• Creates jobs for approximately 2.1 million people
• Invests in sustainability → Walmart powers 36% of operations with renewable energy
• Donates millions to improve health in countries
• Local companies supply to Walmart

Negative effects:

• Smaller shops lose business
• Stores occupy large areas of land
• Long working hours for labourers → 80h/week in Bangladesh
• Pays lower wages in China compared to USA

Last updated: Apr 2025