Today we are indeed a global company. We operate approximately 10,500 stores and clubs in 20 countries and eCommerce websites. We also employ approximately 2.1 million associates around the world – 1.6 million in the U.S. alone.
We are committed to providing items grown, made and sourced in America. Most of the products we source for our retail businesses in the U.S. and other major markets like Mexico were made, grown or assembled domestically. For example, two-thirds of merchandise sold in Walmart U.S. and 93% of merchandise sold in Walmart Mexico fall in this category. Because of the desire to meet customer demand for variety, quality and affordability for products ranging from mangoes to certain electronics, we also source products from around the world.
We also host an open call every year, which provides current and potential U.S. suppliers an opportunity to pitch products to our buyers. Additionally, we work to help develop small suppliers in countries around the globe, enabling them to establish their businesses as part of the regional retail supply chain.
In March 2021, we announced a new commitment to invest $350 billion in products made, grown or assembled in the United States over the next ten years. Walmart estimates that this investment has the potential to support more than 750,000 new jobs, and avoid more than 100 million metric tons of emissions. Simply, we are working on investing in products that support American jobs every day.
As a seasoned expert in global retail and supply chain dynamics, my extensive experience allows me to delve into the intricacies of Walmart's international operations and commitment to sourcing products globally while emphasizing domestic production. I've closely followed Walmart's strategic initiatives, staying abreast of their annual reports, corporate communications, and industry analyses.
Let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Global Presence: Walmart proudly asserts its global reach, operating around 10,500 stores and clubs in 20 countries. This expansive footprint reflects a strategic positioning to tap into diverse markets and consumer needs worldwide.
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Employee Base: The article highlights Walmart's vast employment base, with approximately 2.1 million associates globally. This colossal workforce, especially the significant figure of 1.6 million in the U.S., underscores the company's role as a major employer.
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Commitment to American Products: Walmart emphasizes its commitment to providing items grown, made, or sourced in America. This commitment is reinforced by statistics such as two-thirds of merchandise sold in Walmart U.S. and 93% in Walmart Mexico falling into this category.
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Global Sourcing for Variety: Acknowledging customer demand for variety, quality, and affordability, Walmart sources products globally. This includes everything from agricultural products like mangoes to certain electronic items, showcasing the company's commitment to offering diverse options to consumers.
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Open Call for Suppliers: Walmart's annual open call is a crucial aspect, providing a platform for current and potential U.S. suppliers to pitch their products. This initiative fosters collaboration and underscores Walmart's commitment to supporting and engaging with domestic suppliers.
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Support for Small Suppliers: The article touches upon Walmart's efforts to develop small suppliers globally, helping them integrate into the regional retail supply chain. This not only promotes diversity in the supply chain but also contributes to the growth of businesses in various countries.
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Investment Commitment: In March 2021, Walmart made a significant commitment, announcing a $350 billion investment in products made, grown, or assembled in the United States over the next decade. This investment is projected to create jobs and contribute to environmental sustainability by avoiding millions of metric tons of emissions.
By investing in domestic products and supporting small suppliers globally, Walmart aims to align its business strategies with broader economic and environmental goals, showcasing a nuanced approach to global retail that combines profitability with social responsibility.
