Hi all –
I’m pleased to share it has been a very busy and exciting time at Walmart Canada as we return to some sense of normalcy. My family is finding it energizing to be out with friends enjoying a meal, going to a show, sporting event or just getting together in person. Earlier today, Walmart Inc. announced Q3 results. We are now entering the final stretch of the year in a strong position. With our people, products and prices we’re ready to deliver for the busy holiday shopping season.
We’re hiring!
As a proud Walmart associate with more than 25-years of service, it is so rewarding to see many new associates joining our Canadian team. We launched a campaign to hire 12,000 new and permanent associates across Canada. This is part of a major hiring push for the holidays and to continue making the shopping experience simpler and faster for our customers. We’re hiring for a number of dynamic roles. Any interested candidate can find out more here.
Walmart Canada stands with Indigenous people
We believe in a world where everyone is included. I joined with all our associates across the country by wearing orange on Orange Shirt Day and the first-ever National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Sept 30th.
This was part of our partnership with the Orange Shirt Society to raise funds and awareness. For each of these orange shirts sold, 100% of the profits went to the Society to support the important work they do in Indigenous communities across Canada.
We also welcomed the founder of the Orange Shirt Society, Phyllis Webstad, to our Mission, BC store on Orange Shirt Day. I was particularly moved by the story of what the orange shirt means to two of our associates, Joshua (Sudbury, ON) and Yullinda (Yorkton, Saskatchewan).
I encourage you to read their story.
Holiday shopping
As we head into the busy holiday shopping months, global supply chains continue being disrupted leading to shortages and delays. There are a number of reasons, including higher consumer demand, shortages of containers and vessels to move goods around the world, COVID-19 lockdowns in some countries and general labour shortages. Our merchants started purchasing items early to prepare. We are all doing everything we can to mitigate any delays so items are available in as timely a manner as possible.
COVID-19 vaccinations and flu shots
Finally, our pharmacists have now administered more than a half-million vaccinations – a feat we’re very proud of. Customers can still book vaccinations online or just walk-in. We’re also offering rapid antigen asymptomatic COVID-19 testing in our Ontario and Alberta pharmacies (subject to availability).
We heard how convenient customers found booking COVID-19 vaccinations online, so we’re using the same online service for flu shots*. Check it out here and meet one of our pharmacists from Whitehorse, Yukon!
This is a busy time and I know many in the retail industry welcome it after so much disruption.
Our associates are ready to serve whether you choose to shop with us in-store or online. I am grateful you choose Walmart and I hope you find time this holiday season for family, friends and loved ones.
I look forward to updating you again in the new year.
Best wishes,
Horacio Barbeito
President and CEO, Walmart Canada
*Online flu shot booking is available across the country excluding Quebec, Alberta and Northwest Territories
