History
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Sam Walton opened the first Walmart in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas with the simple premise of offering quality goods at lower prices. His vision and drive made Walmart the largest retailer in the world and brings value to millions of customers every day, helping them save money and live better.
In 1994, Walmart Canada launched with 122 stores. Twenty-eight years later, we’re more than 400 stores strong, employing more than 100,000 people in Canada. Here’s a quick overview of our history in Canada
1990s
1994
Welcome to the neighbourhood! Walmart Canada opens with 122 stores across the country.
1995
A study shows, in less than a year since Walmart launched in Canada, the average price of a basket of consumable goods fell 8%.
1996
Proud Moment! Walmart Canada ranked best in customer service and value for money. (Strategy Magazine).
1998
Opened in-store vision centres.
1999
Wow. 1.1 million associates around the world – Walmart is officially the world’s largest private employer.
2000s
2002
Ryerson study found Walmart’s presence often increases sales at neighbouring small merchants in Canada.
2004
Launched George clothing line.
2006
Supercentres open in Canada, providing customers with fresh groceries and general merchandise all under one roof.
2008
Milestone: We keep growing. Walmart opens its 300th store in Canada in Mississauga, Ontario.
2009
Save Money. Live Better. Great new branding and tagline.
2010s
2010
Launched Women in Retail (WIR) program.
2011
Take it online. Walmart.ca is launched and sets a standard for e-commerce.
Introduced two new private brands; Our Finest a premium food brand and Hometrends a home décor brand.
2014
Happy Anniversary - 20 years in Canada!
2015
Milestone: $100 million raised over 20 years for Canadian children’s hospitals through Children’s Miracle Network.
Launched online grocery pickup and delivery.
2016
Opened first prototype design store in Guelph, Ontario. New look and feel and better customer experience.
2017
Walmart joins Pride parades across Canada.
2018
Announced our commitment to zero food waste by 2025.
Launched our Associate Promise highlighting the unique characteristics of Walmart to help make this, that place: purpose, well-being, inclusion, opportunity and innovation.
2019
Happy anniversary! 25 years in Canada!
Opened first Urban Supercentre Concept Store.
Grocery delivery now available in all provinces.
2020s
2020
Announced a $3.5 billion investment over the next five years to generate growth and to improve the omni shopping experience.
Set goal to become a regenerative company.
2021
Partnered with Thrive Global, making associate well-being a priority.
Buzz-worthy: Introduced new pollinator health commitments.
Commitment of USD $20 million over five years to advance equity for Black and Indigenous Canadians through food security and economic opportunity.