"It was like winning an Academy Award!"
That’s how Steve Taylor, a beloved Walmart Greeter from Store 1072 in Amherstburg, Ontario, described the moment he was named Walmart Canada’s 2024 Shining Star of the Year, the company’s highest associate honour.
Out of the retailer’s more than 100,000 associates, Steve was recognized for demonstrating Walmart’s values and commitment to customers and the community.
A Star Emerges
Steve Taylor has been a Greeter at the Amherstburg Walmart since it opened its doors over 18 years ago. His passion for his job is evident in every interaction he has with customers.
Steve understands first impressions are crucial, and his warm, welcoming demeanor sets the tone for a positive shopping experience. Over the years, he’s transformed the store into a community hub, where everyone feels at home.
During the holiday season, Steve’s is famous for dressing up as Santa Claus, spreading joy and driving donations for Walmart’s annual Spark a Miracle charity campaign for Children’s Miracle Network. As the store’s community ambassador, his heartfelt interactions with customers have turned strangers into friends, making his presence at the front door a highlight for many.
"My favourite part of my job is being around people. It keeps me active, and I’ll stay as long as I can," says Steve, reflecting on his nearly two-decade-long career at Walmart Canada.
Steve and Lynore: The Dynamic Duo
Lynore Brian, Total Loss Compliance Manager at the Amherstburg Walmart, was appointed the store’s social media champion. Despite having no prior experience or social media presence, she was up for the challenge to grow the store’s social media following through the company’s popular My Local Social program.
“One day, I happened to be standing at the front of the store and heard customers say, ‘Hi Steve, Morning Steve, How are you, Steve?’ And I thought, there he is," Lynore recalls. She said, "Steve, you’re going to be my muse and one day, I’m going to make you famous!” And she sure did.
She tapped Steve knowing how popular he was with customers, and he was excited to get involved. This would be a new challenge for him too.
Steve enjoys creating viral videos for TikTok and Facebook, amassing millions of views both locally and abroad.
“What I love the most about making these videos is the response we get,” says Steve.
"Customers come in looking for Steve and ask him for autographs and photos. We’ve even had customers call and want to talk to him," said Jeff Pascoe, Amherstburg Walmart Store Manager.
Celebrating Success
To celebrate their success, Steve and Lynore attended Walmart Associates Week in June in Bentonville, Arkansas, along with 15,000 associates from around the globe.
Steve and Lynore would like to thank everyone for watching their videos and encourage people to keep watching and stay tuned for more to come.
Their story is a shining example of how dedication, passion, and a little bit of social media magic can turn everyday moments into extraordinary ones.
