Wal-Mart

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Profile
Introduction | Business | Location |
Introduction

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. is one of the world's biggest operators of discount retail stores. The company's securities are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and NYSE Arca. Wal-Mart was founded by Sam Walton in 1962. Since then, it has grown into a global chain with more than 6,500 stores in 15 countries. The company had sales of $312.4 billion for the fiscal year ending 31 January 2006.
Business

Wal-Mart's retail divisions:

* Wal-Mart Discount Stores: The discount stores average 101,000 square feet, employ an average of 225 people and offer 120,000 items.
* Wal-Mart Supercenters: Developed in 1988 to meet the growing demand for one-stop family shopping, Wal-Mart Supercenters are open 24 hours a day.
* Wal-Mart Neighborhood Markets: These are aimed at customers who need groceries, pharmaceuticals and general merchandise. Generally, they are located in markets with Wal-Mart Supercenters.
* SAM'S CLUB: A members-only warehouse club offers a broad selection of general merchandise and large-volume items at value prices. Since 1983, SAM'S CLUB has been the preferred choice for small businesses, families or anyone looking for great prices on name-brand products.

Location

Apart from the U.S., the company has operations in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. It has recently pulled out of Germany and South Korea and is exploring the possibility of entering India.