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BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Starting next month, Walmart will begin investing in higher wages for associates in the United States, John Furner, president and chief executive officer of Walmart U.S., said in a memo sent today to all U.S.-based associates.
Furner said the commitment is one of four new ways Walmart will be investing in associates.
“At Walmart, we know our people make the difference. That’s never been more true than today – your talent and dedication to your customers is helping them live better lives every day,” Furner wrote. “And as you continue to focus on your customers, we’re focused on investing in you – our store associates – through higher wages and new opportunities to gain the skills to serve tomorrow’s customers and grow a career with Walmart.”
Furner said the investment in wages includes a mixture of associates’ regular annual increases and targeted investments in starting rates for thousands of stores, moves which Walmart expects will help ensure it has attractive pay in the markets in which it operates.
“We expect these raises will bring our U.S. average hourly wage to more than $17.50,” Furner said. “They’ll be reflected in March 2 paychecks.”
Furner continued, “Second, we’re continuing to invest in associates who run our Auto Care Centers (ACC). Last fall we created a higher-paying ACC coach role. Now we’re introducing a higher-paying ACC team lead position and elevating the ACC tech position to a higher pay-band that reflects the special skills needed for the role and its importance to our business.
“Third, we’re adding new college degrees and certificates to our Live Better U (LBU) education program. These new options are focused on where our business is headed and will equip associates with skills to unlock new career opportunities. Both part-time and full-time associates can participate in LBU on their first day and we’ll pay 100% of the tuition and fees.
“Fourth, we’re expanding our Associate-to-Driver Program, which pays for supply chain associates to earn their commercial driver’s license and become a Walmart truck driver earning up to $110,000 in their first year.”
Walmart recently announced that this development program is open to all associates.
“We’re proud to continue investing in Walmart’s legacy by introducing new job opportunities and raising pay,” Furner wrote. “No matter where you are in your journey, getting your start here can open doors – the first step into jobs that become careers and build better lives. Thank you for all you do to serve our customers and communities every day.”
