Walmart, founded in 1962 by Sam Walton in Rogers, Arkansas, is the world’s largest retailer and a global leader in the retail industry. With a commitment to providing customers with low prices and a wide selection of products, Walmart has grown to become a household name in the United States and internationally. Operating over 10,500 stores across 24 countries, Walmart serves millions of customers every day, offering products ranging from groceries and electronics to apparel and home goods.
Walmart’s innovative approach includes adopting digital transformation through e-commerce and expanding its services, including the Walmart+ membership program, grocery delivery, and financial services. Known for its “Everyday Low Prices” philosophy, Walmart has revolutionized the retail industry by maintaining a massive supply chain and investing in technology to meet changing consumer needs.
CEO and Founder of Walmart
Sam Walton founded Walmart in 1962 with the vision of offering quality goods at affordable prices, particularly in underserved rural areas. His philosophy of keeping prices low while delivering value helped Walmart expand rapidly, making it the largest retail chain in the world. Walton’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for a business empire that continues to thrive today. After Sam Walton’s passing in 1992, his legacy was carried forward by his family and a strong leadership team. The current CEO of Walmart, Doug McMillon, took over the role in 2014 and has been instrumental in Walmart’s growth, particularly in the areas of e-commerce, sustainability, and innovation.
List of Top Companies Under Walmart
Walmart has made several strategic acquisitions over the years, expanding its reach into various sectors, from e-commerce to healthcare. Below is a list of the top companies owned by Walmart, along with their approximate valuations:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam's Club | 1983 (Founded) | $60 Billion | Wholesale Club |
| Flipkart | 2018 (Acquired) | $37 Billion | E-commerce (India) |
| Jet.com | 2016 (Acquired) | $3.3 Billion | E-commerce |
| Bonobos | 2017 (Acquired) | $310 Million | Apparel |
| Moosejaw | 2017 (Acquired) | $51 Million | Outdoor Gear and Apparel |
| ModCloth | 2017 (Acquired) | Sold in 2019 | Fashion Retail |
| Parcel | 2017 (Acquired) | Undisclosed | Same-day/Last-mile Delivery |
| Vudu | 2010 (Acquired) | Sold in 2020 | Digital Video Streaming |
| Art.com | 2018 (Acquired) | Undisclosed | Online Art Retail |
| Walmart Health | 2019 (Founded) | Ongoing Valuation | Healthcare Services |
FAQs About Walmart
Q1: When was Walmart founded, and by whom?
A: Walmart was founded in 1962 by Sam Walton in Rogers, Arkansas, with the goal of offering low prices and high-quality products.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Walmart?
A: Doug McMillon is the current CEO of Walmart, serving in this position since 2014.
Q3: What are some of the top companies owned by Walmart?
A: Walmart owns several companies, including Sam’s Club, Flipkart, Bonobos, Moosejaw, Jet.com, and Walmart Health.
Q4: What is Walmart's market capitalization?
A: As of 2024, Walmart’s market capitalization is over $400 billion, making it one of the largest publicly traded companies in the world.
Q5: How has Walmart expanded internationally?
A: Walmart operates in over 24 countries, including the U.K., Canada, Mexico, China, and India, through both physical stores and e-commerce platforms such as Flipkart.
Q6: Does Walmart offer healthcare services?
A: Yes, Walmart has ventured into healthcare with the launch of Walmart Health, which provides affordable healthcare services including medical, dental, and behavioral health care.
