As the Lunar New Year approaches, I am reminded of my favourite memories as a kid growing up in Taiwan. It was the most awaited time of the year. I looked forward to receiving auspicious red pockets from elders, eating many of my favourite foods and playing with my cousins all day long (we only met once a year back then). The red envelopes are a traditional new year gift, filled with lucky money to spread good wishes and good fortune in the new year.
It’s a holiday rich in customs and traditions and a time where a broader set of East Asian and Southeast Asian families, like mine, traditionally get together to celebrate.
Fast forward to today. The Lunar New Year has become a time for me to reflect on how grateful I am to be able to live in Canada abundantly and happily since I immigrated with my family 20 years ago.
And now I am one of the proud Walmart associates responsible to make sure our shelves (and website) are stocked and ready for the Lunar New Year. I am passionate about finding ways to enrich new Canadians’ lives and help them feel like they’re back home by making authentic brands and products accessible and affordable.
As the Category Manager for this special holiday, I am very pleased to tell you Walmart Canada has curated an impressive assortment of Lunar New Year merchandise in-store and online. From food to décor, our goal is to make celebrating the Lunar New Year more convenient and enjoyable than ever before.
2021 is the Year of the Ox, which is set to bring career advancement, success in business, prosperity, and wellness for all zodiac signs.
In select stores, our enhanced assortment is complemented by festive merchandising displays, signage and friendly associates. Overall, the shopping experience feels very similar to shopping back home.
At Walmart, the customer is number one and we continuously strive to deliver beyond customer expectations. Whether customers are looking for a safe place to shop, trying to save money on weekly grocery bills or craving for a special product during this unusual period, customers can trust Walmart to be there for them at all times. Always. It doesn’t matter what ethnic background, social status and age group you are. At Walmart, we take great pride in serving millions of customers in hundreds of communities from coast-to-coast every day.
At last, I wish everyone stays healthy and safe during this season. I sincerely hope Walmart Canada can play a meaningful role in the upcoming Lunar New Year celebration and make it an unforgettable time!
Gung Hey Fat Choy! #LunarNewYear
Stew Chang is the Category Manager of Grocery at Walmart Canada.