Wal-Mart History

  Retail and discount stores originated in the United States, in the early 1950s. The concept of retail stores grew extremely popular in the United States. Sam Walton who was convinced that the American consumers wanted something more than retail shops, opened his own discount and retail shop in Rogers, Arkansas. Walton had traveled all across the United States, and had gained a lot of experience pertaining to discount shops. In 1962, he started the Wal-Mart phenomenon by opening the first store. In the next five years and a lot of hard work later, Walton was able to open 24 stores in Arkansas itself. The 24 stores played a highly instrumental role in helping Wal-Mart achieve a landmark turnover of $ 12.6 million. In 1968, Wal-Mart hired its first commercial pilot for speedy logistics. On October 31, 1969, Wal-Mart stores changed from an establishment to an official incorporated company under the name, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.   

Walton's ideas and efforts have made it one of the organizations that have changed the world. The idea of retail shops, discount stores and super shops have changed the world of shoppers and consumers. Today the organization employs more than 2.1 million associates and direct employees. The stores of Wal-Mart serve more than 176 million consumers world wide, annually.

Sam Walton and Wal-Mart have been successful in setting an example before the world about maintaining values and also managing the never-ending growth and success.