Walmart Inc. is an American multinational retail corporation that operates a vast chain of hypermarkets, discount department stores, and grocery stores. Founded by Sam Walton in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas, the company has grown from a single store into the world's largest company by revenue and the largest private employer globally, with approximately 2.1 million associates. Headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, Walmart's business model is built on the foundation of 'Everyday Low Prices' (EDLP), a strategy that has enabled it to become a dominant force in the retail industry. The company's operations are segmented into Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam's Club, a chain of membership-only retail warehouses. Over the decades, Walmart has consistently focused on operational efficiency, supply chain innovation, and leveraging technology to serve its customers better, processing hundreds of millions of customer visits weekly across its more than 10,500 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries.
In recent years, Walmart has embarked on a significant digital transformation to compete in the evolving retail landscape, becoming a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer. This includes substantial investments in e-commerce, highlighted by acquisitions like Jet.com, and the development of a robust online marketplace. The company is also a leader in technological adoption within retail, utilizing data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain to optimize its supply chain, personalize customer experiences, and improve efficiency. Beyond its commercial activities, Walmart is committed to corporate responsibility, focusing on sustainability through initiatives like Project Gigaton, which aims to reduce emissions in its global value chain. The company also invests in its workforce through programs like Live Better U, which covers college tuition and book costs for its associates, and contributes to local communities through the Walmart Foundation.