The Wal-Mart Story
"We're all working together; that's the secret. And we'll lower the
cost of living for everyone, not just in America, but we'll give the world an
opportunity to see what it's like to save and have a better lifestyle, a better
life for all. We're proud of what we've accomplished; we've just begun."
- Sam Walton (1918-1992)
Sam Walton's dream was simple: Give people high value, low prices and a warm
welcome. That dream was realized in 1962 with the opening of the first Wal-Mart.
Today, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., employs more than 1.2 million associates
worldwide. The company has more than 3,000 stores and offices across the United
States and more than 1,000 stores internationally. It has also expanded online
with Walmart.com, which is dedicated to bringing Sam Walton's dream to the
Internet.
If you ask customers why they return to Wal-Mart again and again, chances are
they'll say it's because of more than just the great prices and appealing
selection. It's also because of the people, starting with the friendly greeters
at the front of every store. Prompt, friendly service is a serious matter at
Wal-Mart.
This commitment to people means that we also take seriously our
responsibilities as a corporate neighbor. Local Wal-Mart stores have made a
difference in their communities by: