Walmart and the Unionization Challenge: Navigating the Retail Giant's Labor Landscape
Introduction Walmart, a behemoth in the retail industry, has consistently made headlines, not just for its colossal presence in the global market but also for its notable resistance to unionization. Founded in 1962 by Sam Walton in Rogers, Arkansas, Walmart has grown into an international retail giant. However, its journey has been marked by a complex and often contentious relationship with the concept of unionization, which forms the crux of our discussion. Walmart’s Business Model and Workforce Walmart's business model revolves around offering a wide range of products at competitively low prices. This strategy hinges on efficient supply chain management, large-scale purchasing power, and, critically, controlled labor costs. As of 2023, Walmart employs over 2 million individuals worldwide, making it one of the largest private employers. The workforce is diverse, spanning different regions, cultures, and economic backgrounds. However, this vast and varied workforce faces unified