This Earth Month, there’s plenty to celebrate at Walmart Canada, including one store that’s showing how big impact really does come from everyday actions.
At Walmart Canada, sustainability shows up in the everyday work happening in stores and facilities from reducing waste and keeping products fresh, to supporting local communities.
The Walmart Canada Sustainability Award recognizes the store leading the way in waste reduction through recycling efforts, the Customer Value Program (CVP), which helps reduce food waste by marking down items before they’re no longer salable, and overall food donations.
The Chicoutimi, Quebec Walmart store stood out for its consistency across all areas.
“I was very surprised to win the award and was so happy for my team,” said Caroline Proux, Store Manager, Chicoutimi Walmart. “With so many stores doing great work in this space it’s almost impossible to know you’re in the running. To be number one out of more than 400 stores, it’s incredible!”
“The Chicoutimi store has a strong sustainability mindset and their impact goes beyond the store,” said Jennifer Barbazza, Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Walmart Canada. “They’ve built strong routines to manage waste, fully embraced programs like CVP and developed a close relationship with their local food bank. They’re supporting their community in meaningful, tangible ways and that’s exactly what this award is all about.”
That relationship is with Moisson Saguenay. Over the past year, the store donated more than 50,000 pounds of safe, surplus food, helping reduce waste while supporting people in the community.
Inside the store, sustainability is part of everyone’s daily routine.
That shared accountability is what drives results and keeps the team engaged.
“Because sustainability matters to me, it matters to my associates,” she said. “But it’s important to explain why we do what we do and what impact it has.”
Caroline has been with Walmart Canada for 25 years and a Store Manager since 2017. For the past four years, she’s led the Chicoutimi store with a focus on consistency, teamwork and doing the right things every day.
For her, the recognition belongs to the team.
“When I returned to the store after our Year Beginning Meeting, I congratulated everyone. This award belongs to all of us. Everyone at the store plays a role in sustainability.”
The award plaque hangs proudly above the punch clock, a visible display of what the associates achieved together.
Looking ahead, the team is already thinking about what’s next. To mark Earth Month, they’re planning a large outdoor cleanup around the store with associates.
“With spring arriving, a lot of waste accumulates under the snow,” Caroline said. “By doing this, we’re creating a clean and welcoming environment for our customers. We’re always here to support our community and help where it’s needed.”
At the Chicoutimi Walmart, sustainability isn’t just a priority, it’s something the team lives every day.
