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Wal-Mart Coverage
Stories pertaining to Wal-Mart Stores, Sam's Club, or other related Wal-Mart coverage from the Benton County Daily Record.
Two for one : Wal-Mart cut the ribbon on the redesigned Rogers store and its new Latin chicken restaurant.
At the heart of the true retail attitude is the sale, and chief of the sales is the buy one, get one. Maybe each item is half price, or maybe one is free. You get twice as much as you pay for, or you pay half as much as you expect. - Thursday, October 30, 2008
International on the Square : Associates experience Wal-Mart story
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Leticia Lorensse and a group of more than 200 other people filed off several charter buses just north of the downtown Bentonville Square on Tuesday. - Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Here they come
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Even giants like New York and Los Angeles will be hard pressed to draw more visitors to any single event this week than Bentonville and the northwest Arkansas region will with the annual Wal-Mart Shareholders Week. - Sunday, June 1, 2008
Change of plans
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart has delayed its Neighborhood Market project in Bentonville, but is moving forward quickly in Rogers. - Thursday, March 6, 2008
Wal-Mart : Customized health plans making a difference
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — As health-care coverage and issues have taken center stage in the United States over the past couple of years, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has received plenty of criticism. - Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Left behind : There’s plenty of elbow room in Bentonville when Wal-Mart migrates to Kansas City for the annual Year Beginning Meeting
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — If you’ve noticed less congestion on local roadways and smaller lunch crowds at popular Bentonville restaurants this week, it’s not just because people are nervous about the icy roads. - Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wal-Mart helps out area food pantries
A truck loaded with canned vegetables from Wal-Mart Stores will help supply food to soup kitchens and food pantries in four northwest Arkansas counties this month. Wal-Mart and America’s Second Harvest delivered more than 35,000 pounds of canned and dry goods to the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank on Jan. 7. - Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Wal-Mart Foundation sets application period
The Wal-Mart Foundation recently announced that the application period for the Sam Walton Community Scholarships has started in all U.S. - Monday, November 19, 2007
Wal-Mart partners up for relief of flooding in Mexico
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — Wal-Mart Stores announced Thursday a partnership aimed at economic recovery efforts in the flooddamaged Mexican states of Tabasco and Chiapas. - Friday, November 16, 2007
Retailers nation wide quick to embrace ‘green’ attitude
By Elizabeth Aguilera The Denver Post
DENVER — Dozens of Colorado retailers have made moves toward energy conservation and independence, and now the Burt Automotive Group is going full-tilt with a new green dealership. - Monday, October 1, 2007
Wal-Mart experiments locally with water conservation efforts
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — A trip to the restroom at the Pleasant Grove Road Wal-Mart Supercenter is more than a quick break in the middle of a busy shopping trip. - Tuesday, September 25, 2007
McKenna takes reins of Wal-Mart Foundation
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Margaret A. McKenna has been named the new president of the Wal-Mart Foundation and will be charged with taking the company’s corporate giving to a greater level of impact and excellence. - Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Wal-Mart crew gives to Sharing and Caring
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The senior regional safety managers of the Wal-Mart Logistics Safety and Environmental Department raised $3,461 for the Sharing and Caring of Benton County Christmas program. - Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Agwunobi joins Wal-Mart staff
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores announced that Dr. John Agwunobi, current assistant secretary for health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and an admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, has been named senior vice president and president for the Professional Services Division for Wal-Mart’s U.S. operations, effective Sept. 4. - Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Friends remember Vyborny
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Matt Vyborny always had a positive outlook on life. - Friday, July 20, 2007
Wal-Mart honored with Chairman’s Award
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — The Boys and Girls Clubs of America recently announced that Wal-Mart is the 2007 recipient of the clubs’ prestigious Chairman’s Award. Wal-Mart Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer John Menzer accepted the award on behalf of the company’s 1.3 million U.S. associates at BGCA’s Southwest Regional Chairman’s Dinner in Dallas. - Friday, June 22, 2007
Wal-Mart will open 1,000 in-store MoneyCenters by end of ’08
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — With banks on what seems like every corner competing for business, it’s a common assumption that every American household uses a bank. - Thursday, June 21, 2007
Proposal to change zoning upsets some residents
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — It’s possible a proposed development that includes a Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market near the intersection of Arkansas Highway 12 and Southwest I Street will eventually attract more attention than any other item that was on the Bentonville Planning Commission’s agenda Tuesday night, but it was a request regarding land a short distance farther west on Highway 12 that received the most discussion. - Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Atlanta metro area helps Wal-Mart raise $10 Million for Children’s Miracle Network
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — With Wal-Mart and the Children’s Miracle Network’s month-long celebration of the 20th anniversary of their partnership completed, the organizations have awarded the community that purchased the most Miracle Balloons in May — Atlanta — with a free concert by country music star Tracy Byrd. - Sunday, June 17, 2007
Dell computers to arrive at Wal-Mart today
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Beginning Sunday, consumers across the United States will be able to purchase Dell computers at Wal-Mart. - Sunday, June 10, 2007
Mayor still anticipating Supercenter
By Gary Lookadoo Staff Writer // garyl@nwanews.com
CENTERTON — For people in Centerton, waiting for construction of a Wal-Mart Supercenter in their hometown apparently will continue for some time to come, Centerton Mayor Ken Williams said Tuesday. - Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Wal-Mart layout center, Neighborhood Market on agenda
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The festivities associated with the Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting have ended and the thousands who gathered here from around the globe are gone. But Wal-Mart will remain in the headlines, as it has as couple of new construction projects in the works for Bentonville. - Monday, June 4, 2007
Video pays tribute to Miss Helen
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — International flags were waving. Cheers were echoing. The entertainment was loud. Even Sinbad, the popular comedian, said, “You know, it’s 7 a.m. You all aren’t supposed to be this happy and lively about a meeting this early in the morning. This is crazy.” - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Shareholders come with questions
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Shareholders had a chance to speak their minds Friday. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Less is more: Execs share plans to reduce number of new stores
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — The 37th annual Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting began with the world’s largest retailer back on top of the list of Fortune 500 companies, knocking off oil giant Exxon Mobile for the coveted spot. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Shareholder proposals voted down
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — When it came time for shareholders to cast votes on the 13 proposals on the agenda on Friday, there were no surprises. Everyone up for election to the Wal-Mart Board of Directors was accepted, the ratification of independent accountants passed, and all other items failed. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Executive compensation a hot topic
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — All the entertainment, lights and cheering aside, Wal-Mart does conduct some business at its annual Shareholders Meeting. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Green goes global, permeates products
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — In the early phases of a companywide challenge to pursue more sustainable practices, Wal-Mart’s efforts to go green are spreading beyond U.S. store models and into product lines and international practices, the company’s leaders said. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Wal-Mart to rein in Supercenter growth
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Wal-Mart Chief Financial Officer Tom Schoewe unrolled a plan to curb the growth of Supercenters nationwide. Rather than the 266 Supercenters introduced last year in the United States, Wal-Mart plans to open 190 to 200 Supercenters next year and 170 in following years. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Executive: Russia has potential for Wal-Mart
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — After a year of expansion within several Asian countries, Wal-Mart hasn’t ruled out the idea of a presence in Russia. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Josh Burrell is Wal-Mart’s ‘American Idol’
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Two years ago, pop star Jessica Simpson sang the national anthem to open the annual Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting. Last year, the company made a change, bringing in one of its own to take center stage. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
New slogan for Wal-Mart
By Jeff Mores Staff Writer // jeffm@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — For years, Wal-Mart shoppers in the United States and across the globe have become familiar with the company slogan, “Always low prices. Always.” Every successful company has to evolve over time, however. While no official declaration was made at the annual Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting in Fayetteville on Friday, it was obvious the retail giant’s slogan has evolved. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Chicago council member provides update on city’s first store
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — When Wal-Mart proposed building its first store inside the Chicago city limits, City Council member Emma Mitts became an advocate for the development, standing firm against opponents who feared it would threaten existing businesses in the area. Mitts joined Wal-Mart CEO Lee Scott on stage at the company’s annual Shareholders Meeting on Friday to discuss how the store on the West Side of Chicago represents a snapshot of what is possible with the Jobs and Opportunities Zone, an initiative that originated in the store and will eventually be rolled out in cities across the country. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Canadian associates enjoy visit to northwest Arkansas
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Red maple leaves emblazoned the tall, floppy, red-and-white hats worn by associates sporting dark crimson shirts as these Wal-Mart associates from Canada enjoyed their first visit to Arkansas. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Sam’s Club associates fall in love with Bentonville store
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Sam’s Club was once primarily a warehouse for businesses to shop mainly for resale items and supplies for employees. But in recent years, Sam’s Club has completely refocused itself on becoming a place for the average consumer to shop. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Sinbad steers Shareholders’ ship
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — The comedian Sinbad has played many gigs during his long career. But Friday was a first. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Couple: ‘Same old show’
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Fred and Virginia Ladda of Waldron bought Wal-Mart stock in 1980 or 1981 for their granddaughters’ college funds. They’ve been coming to the Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting for about 20 years. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Heroes honored for making a difference
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Wal-Mart presented four associates with Hero Awards at the annual Shareholders Meeting at Bud Walton Arena on Friday. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Protesters once again shout for changes
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Surrounded by University of Arkansas campus police, approximately two dozen protesters from the Against the Wal Coalition, a Fayetteville-based grass-roots organization that opposes many of Wal-Mart’s practices, made their voices heard Friday. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
Tennessee associate pins his experience
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Even though Kenardo Curry just visited northwest Arkansas this week, he’s taking home several parts of the world this weekend. - Saturday, June 2, 2007
The Hulkster tags with Wal-Mart
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — There was a different energy in the air Saturday morning at the Bentonville Wal-Mart Supercenter. - Sunday, May 20, 2007
Wal-Mart files suit to prevent disclosing of trade secrets
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart is suing a former employee in an effort to prevent him from revealing confidential information concerning the retailer. - Tuesday, April 10, 2007
For Wal-Mart rules, tough enforcement comes first
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
Wal-Mart, renowned to outsiders for its elbows-out business tactics, is known internally for its bare-knuckled, no-expense-spared investigations of employees who break its ironclad ethics rules. - Friday, March 30, 2007
Wal-Mart’s prospects for NYC store called bleak
By Michael Barbaro and Steven Greenhouse New York Times News Service
NEW YORK — Wal-Mart to New York: Fuhgeddaboudit. - Thursday, March 29, 2007
Wal-Mart criticizes former executives in filing
By Louise Story and Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
Wal-Mart asserted Monday in a court filing that two of its former top marketing officials engaged in a sexual relationship during the process of selecting new advertising agencies and sought jobs with one of the agencies they ultimately ended up recommending. - Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Wal-Mart releases initial scorecard results
By Jamie Brunk Staff Writer // jamieb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — More than 100 products have been entered into Wal-Mart’s new packaging scorecard system, the retail giant announced Monday. - Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Protesters preach against Wal-Mart
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Protesters hit the sidewalks in front of the Wal-Mart Home Office on Friday morning in their attempt to save the company from ruin. - Saturday, December 16, 2006
Protest countered by locals
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Josh Turley said he researched Operation Save America after reading some of their signs Friday morning. The signs were held by protesters as they stood in front of the Wal-Mart Home Office and along South Walton Boulevard near the Supercenter. - Saturday, December 16, 2006
Firm not invited to pursue major ad account
By Jennifer Mann The Kansas City Star
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A week after Wal-Mart revealed plans to place its 570 million advertising account back in review, Kansas City-based Bernstein-Rein learned it is not being invited to bid for the business. - Saturday, December 16, 2006
Wal-Mart axes ad firm
By Jennifer Mann The Kansas City Star
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Hope lives for Bernstein-Rein Advertising’s relationship with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. after the retailer Thursday axed DraftFCB, the agency that just weeks ago won Wal-Mart’s $570 million advertising account. - Saturday, December 9, 2006
All’s quiet on the Wal-Mart front
By Annette Beard Staff Writer // annetteb@nwanews.com
PEA RIDGE — A 36-acre tract purchased by Wal-Mart was rezoned commercial at Tuesday’s Pea Ridge Planning Commission meeting. Although planners faced a packed audience of more than 60 people, no one spoke for or against the proposal during the public hearing. No questions were asked by planners or residents. - Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Wal-Mart divisions team up to help protect abuse victims
From Staff Reports
SPRINGDALE — Several divisions within Wal-Mart have teamed up for a holiday fundraiser benefiting the Children’s Safety Center. - Sunday, December 3, 2006
New, improved Wal-Mart seems to be stumbling
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
On Thursday, Wal-Mart was expected to announce, based on its own estimates, that sales for November fell for the first time in a decade. - Friday, December 1, 2006
Wal-Mart , Sam’s Club, customers welcome back Salvation Army
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Glad tidings, jingling bells and red kettles. - Saturday, November 25, 2006
Run with Santa planned
Winter 5K and Fun Run with Santa will be Dec. 2 at the Lake Bella Vista Walking Trail in Bella Vista. The event, which will benefit Arkansas Children’s Hospital, is sponsored by Wal-Mart Distribution Center 6094 in Bentonville. - Saturday, November 25, 2006
Program imitated, criticized
By Christopher Rowland and Jeffrey Krasner The Boston Globe
The $4 generic prescriptions Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is introducing at its stores around the country are causing a ripple effect in the big-box retail industry, spawning imitators like BJ’s Wholesale Club, but drawing criticism from drugstores that say the discounts will not result in significant savings for most consumers. - Sunday, November 19, 2006
Edwards, Wal-Mart continue war of words
By Rob Christensen The (Raleigh, N.C.) News & Observer
RALEIGH, N.C. — A staffer for John Edwards tried to buy a PlayStation 3 for the former U.S. senator’s family at a Raleigh Wal-Mart on the same day Edwards was criticizing the giant retailer’s treatment of its employees, the company said Thursday. - Sunday, November 19, 2006
Wal-Mart starts discounts early for holiday season
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
BENTONVILLE — The everexpanding holiday shopping season is starting even earlier this year. - Thursday, November 9, 2006
Wal-Mart preparing for voter drive
By Chris Serres and Rob Hotakainen Minneapolis Star Tribune
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — This summer and fall, political candidates from Iowa to North Carolina have delivered blistering attacks against Wal-Mart and its record on health care, wages and benefits. - Saturday, October 14, 2006
Coughlin seeks case dismissal
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Tom Coughlin is seeking a dismissal of the lawsuit in which a former Wal-Mart associate claims Coughlin threatened his job if he did not aid Coughlin in a scheme to defraud money from the retailer. - Friday, October 6, 2006
If preppies took over Wal-Mart
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
For decades, a humble blue smock or vest has been required dress for employees at Wal-Mart Stores, conveying the retailer’s working-class image and its modest roots in Bentonville. - Wednesday, October 4, 2006
People turn out in bulk for grand opening
By Chad Eiler Staff Writer // chade@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Thousands gathered Thursday morning to christen the new Sam’s Club here and partake in some bulk buying. - Friday, September 29, 2006
Wal-Mart sets alliance with gay business group
By Marilyn Geewax Cox News Service
WASHINGTON — Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the retail giant that grew up in the rural South, is moving to attract gay shoppers as it expands its presence in urban centers. - Saturday, August 26, 2006
Wal-Mart takes sustainable strides
By Evie Blad Staff Writer // evieb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — The nation’s largest retailer is making influential strides in building sustainable stores, a Wal-Mart engineer said Tuesday. - Friday, August 25, 2006
Two surprise announcements made at SPSFBC banquet
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — In less than two hours Thursday evening — while hundreds of attendees enjoyed dinner at the Clarion Hotel and Convention Center in Bentonville — the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Benton County Inc. managed to present an astounding program. - Friday, August 25, 2006
Volunteers donate sweat equity to United Way of Benton County
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — In spite of light rain and threatening skies early Friday morning, 350 Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club associates were sunny and bright as they gathered to volunteer their help to United Way of Benton County agencies. The event was a Day of Caring to kick off the associates’ giving campaign. - Saturday, July 15, 2006
Volunteers prepare trail
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — Eighteen Wal-Mart volunteers joined 15 city employees, three dump trucks, two backhoes and a Bobcat on Friday to prepare the Blossom Way Recreational Trail for its dedication next week. - Saturday, July 15, 2006
United Way helps Wal-Mart kick off campaign
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — More than 350 Wal-Mart /Sam’s Club Foundation associates will spend Friday volunteering their time and energy by working at local nonprofit agencies. - Thursday, July 13, 2006
Bowen case continues
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — A local circuit judge will issue a ruling in upcoming days on whether a former vice president of operations for Wal-Mart should be declared a limited-purpose public figure. - Thursday, July 6, 2006
Bowen v. Wal-Mart
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Circuit Judge John Scott has scheduled a hearing to determine whether a former Wal-Mart employee is a limited-purpose public figure. - Friday, June 9, 2006
‘Out Front’
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Wal-Mart is the process of a transformation that President and Chief Executive Officer Lee Scott titled "Wal-Mart Out Front." - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Meeting starts with musical, update by execs
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — The annual Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting on Friday morning started with Disney-style performances featuring Wal-Mart characters in green, red and blue vests who danced and sang about the customer. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Proposals from shareholders commend Wal-Mart , ask for more
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Shareholders voted on eight items during this year’s proxy statement meeting: &#?; Shareholders ratified Ernst & Young as independent accountants with 98.8 percent approval. The company has audited Wal-Mart since 1970. Shareholder ratification was not required for that item, but the board wanted to take shareholders’ "feedback into consideration," said Rob Walton, chairman of the Wal-Mart Board of Directors. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Wal-Mart hears compliments during proxy
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Every shareholder proposal was denied as usual, but this year, Wal-Mart received a few compliments from some of its usual detractors. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Wal-Mart welcomes Central America
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — This year, five countries in Central America can be added to the list of places where Wal-Mart has made its presence known. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Brazilian associates thinking about World Cup
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Isaias Silva enjoyed his stay in northwest Arkansas this week, but you couldn’t blame him for wanting to get home. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Wal-Mart execs discuss key issues in panel discussion
By Rachel Lianna Davis and Eleanor Evans Staff Writers // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Top executives from Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club took time during the company’s Shareholders Meeting on Friday to participate in a scripted panel discussion focusing on what they believe are the biggest issues facing associates. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Wal-Mart to decrease inventory
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Wal-Mart plans to add several hundred Supercenters this fiscal year and store a lot less inventory. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Trip a learning experience for associate from China
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — It’s a 30-hour trip, but Harry Zhang believes every minute was worth it to attend the Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting on Friday morning. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
My day at Shareholders
Mike Jones is the managing editor of The Benton County Daily Record.
The first Friday in June: Each year it calls Wal-Mart associates from around the world to Fayetteville for the annual shareholders meeting. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Associates recognized for efforts during crisis
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart recognized two of its associates for their efforts to help their communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Beyonce, ‘American Idol’ winner Hicks impress shareholders
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — One day you’re winning "American Idol," the next you’re at the Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Shareholders ask questions
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Some questions seemed to be important, while others seemed to come from left field. - Saturday, June 3, 2006
Wal-Mart stores change, steer clear of compact design
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer `` racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — America’s suburbs are brimming with Wal-Marts, so the giant retailer is headed downtown. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Company experiments with windmills in McKinney
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Relatively close to the Wal-Mart Home Office, two Wal-Mart Supercenters grace McKinney, Texas — with a third and a Sam’s Club on the way, according to McKinney Mayor Bill Whitfield. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Residents request changes from Wal-Mart in Canada, too
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Communities in the United States are not the only ones asking Wal-Mart to change a few things. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Another milestone: 2,000 th U.S. Supercenter
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer // jennifert@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The grand opening of a Wal-Mart Supercenter in Beaumont, Calif., in March marked a milestone for the company — the 2,000th Supercenter to open in the United States. - Friday, June 2, 2006
100 th Neighborhood Market opens; format a winner for company
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer // jennifert@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Just three months before the grand opening of its 2,000th Supercenter in March, Wal-Mart celebrated the opening of its 100th Neighborhood Market in January. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Q&A with Wal-Mart’s Lawrence Jackson
Q: Describe what kind of year 2005 was and how 2006 is looking. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Reaching more shoppers
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
ROGERS — The key to Wal-Mart’s future growth is relevancy, suppliers heard April 11 at the Embassy Suites in Rogers. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart seeks help from environmental consultant
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — As the world’s largest retailer embarks on a mission to go green, the company has recognized a need to call in the professionals. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Around the world in … record time
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer `` racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Every toothpick, can opener and cotton ball takes a long and arduous journey to end up on Wal-Mart shelves around the world. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart takes the initiative with truck fleet
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer ``#racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart’s fleet is one of the largest private fleets in the world, and the company has stepped into the realm of making those trucks as safe, efficient and environmentally friendly as possible. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Food makeover leads to ASDA’s first own-label store
UNITED KINGDOM — In Northampton, ASDA opened its first ASDA Essentials store — a pilot format where almost all of the 2,400 items for sale are the retailer’s own brand. - Friday, June 2, 2006
George unveils its new ‘Must Haves’ and Homewares ranges
UNITED KINGDOM — In the year it celebrates its 16th birthday, George at ASDA marked its coming of age with the launch of two new ranges — George "Must Haves" and George Homewares. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart Argentina opens Supercenter in Rio Cuarto
RIO CUARTO, Argentina — Wal-Mart Argentina opened its 12th store in Argentina in the city of Río Cuarto, after making an investment of more than 30 million pesos and creating more than 400 jobs, both direct and indirect. The direct jobs were given to local residents who have been trained through some 120 specialized programs over the last four months. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Walmex sees rise in ’05 profits
By Patrick Harrington Bloomberg News
MEXICO CITY — Fourthquarter profits for Wal-Mart de Mexico SA fell for the first time in more than two years, but the company posted strong yearend earnings Feb. 9 and said it would offer a stock split. - Friday, June 2, 2006
December a huge month for Wal-Mart International
BENTONVILLE — 2005 was a busy year for Wal-Mart International. In December alone, the company acquired 545 new stores and gained more than 50,000 new associates in Japan and South America, capping a year of robust growth. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart’s dominance apparent in the grocery business
By Melanie Warner New York Times News Service
Last year, Coca-Cola was preparing to introduce a new diet soda, to be called Coke Zero. But executives at Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the nation’s largest retailer, thought they had a better idea. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Taking over in Brazil
BENTONVILLE — Mike Duke, vice chairman of Wal-Mart Stores Inc., announced in December 2005 the purchase of Sonae’s retail operations in Brazil, which include 140 hypermarkets, supermarkets and wholesale units. The total transaction was valued at approximately $757 million. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart’s new president for German operations announced
BENTONVILLE — John Menzer, president and chief executive officer of Wal-Mart International, announced that experienced European retail executive David Wild has been named president and managing director of Wal-Mart Germany. Wild succeeds Dr. Kay Hafner, who has resigned after four years with the company to pursue other business interests. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart says it will sell S. Korean Supercenters for $869 million
By Bloomberg News
SOUTH KOREA — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. agreed in May to sell its chain of South Korean Supercenters to Shinsegae Co. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Shareholders’ approval makes Seiyu part of the team
JAPAN — The Seiyu Ltd., a leading Japanese retail chain, announced shareholder approval of conditions for additional investment by Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Mizuho Corporate Bank of 67.5 billion yen (U.S.: $565 million) and 47.5 billion yen (U.S.: $400 million) respectively. With payment of Wal-Mart’s additional investment planned for Dec. 21, 2005, ownership will increase to 54 percent, making Seiyu a subsidiary of Wal-Mart. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart Canada, Evergreen continue Green Grants partnership
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO — Wal-Mart Canada has announced its continuing partnership with Evergreen and the Green Grants program — a Canadian community greening program sponsored by Wal-Mart Canada and led by Evergreen — to further the cause of creating greener, more livable Canadian cities. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart to expand presence in China, hire 150K more employees
By Stacey Roberts Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. plans to hire up to 150,000 more employees in China over the next five years as the company expands to serve the rapidly growing retail market in that country. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Store of the Community enhances shopping experience
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer `` jennifert@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart has taken individualized assortment to a new level with its Store of the Community initiative. The Store of the Community is not a new line of stores, but rather a model for existing Wal-Mart discount stores and Supercenters to meet the shopping needs of local customers. The stores are specifically tailored to mirror the demographic makeup of their respective communities. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Charitable partnerships raise millions for those in need
By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer // tonyam@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church and has been supporting those in need since 1865. Almost 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through an array of services. - Friday, June 2, 2006
SHAREHOLDERS 2006 Wal-Mart becomes first responder to hurricane
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — A packed room within the Wal-Mart Home Office is filled with eager employees, responders and television news networks. The maps are pinpointed with Wal-Mart stores, and another map shows the eye of the storm. It’s hectic, it’s eager and it’s ready. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart moves to create Jobs and Opportunity Zones
By Lynda Edwards Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Chief Executive Officer H. Lee Scott said April 4 that the company will build 50 stores over the next two years in urban neighborhoods with high crime or unemployment rates. The first store will open on the West Side of Chicago, a city that long refused to let Wal-Mart Stores Inc. within its city limits. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Regional manager reflects on history of Wal-Mart’s one-stop shopping
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — Wal-Mart added its first Tire Lube Express in 1978 to a store in Claremore, Okla. - Friday, June 2, 2006
‘Sam’s Rules for Running a Business’
Rule 1 Commit to your business. Believe in it more than anybody else. I think I overcame every single one of my personal shortcomings by the sheer passion I brought to my work. I don’t know if you’re born with this kind of passion, or if you can learn it. But I do know you need it. If you love your work, you’ll be out there every day trying to do it the best you possibly can, and pretty soon everybody around will catch the passion from you — like a fever. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year brings science to life
By Jamie Brunk Staff Writer // jamieb@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — If he were giving new teachers advice, Hector Ibarra would tell them to plan plenty of hands-on activities for the classroom. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Store manager’s excitement for volunteering spreads to associates
By Jamie Brunk Staff Writer // jamieb@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — It’s often joked about that everything in Texas is big — from the 10-gallon hats to the steaks. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Business Member still main focus at Sam’s Club
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — In 2005, Sam’s Club continued to focus first on its Business Members. Don’t expect that to change in 2006, an executive said in May. - Friday, June 2, 2006
College student lives in Wal-Mart for 41 hours
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — For spring break, some college students set out for sundrenched beaches or cheap European cities. Skyler Bartels headed for the local Wal-Mart. - Friday, June 2, 2006
McMillon takes over at Sam’s Club
By Mike Jones Staff Writer // mikej@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — When Wal-Mart announced in August 2005 that Kevin Turner was leaving his position of chief executive officer for Sam’s Club, there seemed an obvious choice to replace him: Doug McMillon. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Virginia businessman proud of association with Sam’s Club
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Manny Desai makes a 15-mile trek three times a week to purchase supplies at Sam’s Club for his five convenience stores in Chantilly, Va. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Kistler enjoys looking for new opportunities for Sam’s Club
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Matt Kistler stays on top of trends for Sam’s Club. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart associate helps Florida town bloom
By Jamie Brunk Staff Writer // jamieb@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Many flowers have been delivered to people in the community surrounding the Wal-Mart store here. - Friday, June 2, 2006
SHAREHOLDERS 2006 World’s largest retailer testing upscale offerings
PLANO, Texas (AP) — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has overcome its rural roots and downscale image to attract affluent shoppers, but executives admit many of those well-heeled consumers go to the discounter only for cheap groceries and steer clear of the other merchandise. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Reap many rewards with yard work for children
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Whether you live on a farm or in a neighborhood, it is time to reap the rewards of working in the yard as a family. Your child’s mind, body and self-image will benefit when you work outside together. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Vista Bakery to offer expanded line of private label snack products
BURLINGTON, Iowa — Not only does Vista Bakery Inc. offer a full line of cookies and crackers, we now offer an expanded snack food program. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club: Together making miracles
of pediatric training for medical and nursing students, post-doctoral residents and paramedical professionals. Patient admissions were 12,088 in 2005. There were 264,794 total patient visits in 2005, including 39,187 to the emergency department. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Main Street Bentonville takes important steps in past year
By Bob Haynes President and CEO
BENTONVILLE — It doesn’t seem so long ago — April 2002 — when Main Street Bentonville was created as the organization of record to provide the leadership and oversight in developing the downtown as a viable economic area and to stimulate the economy of the district. I believe that we have been successful in both regards. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Rare gold-nugget and jewelry display at Sam’s Club
By Olivia Sellers
SPRINGDALE — New Solutions has teamed up with Sam’s Club to bring a beautiful display of gold nuggets, three of which are very rare, and jewelry made from gold nuggets to northwest Arkansas. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Delta Dental of Arkansas’ charitable contributions top $400K in 2005
SHERWOOD — Delta Dental of Arkansas is a mid-size company that continues to award super-size gifts to charities in Arkansas and surrounding states. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Country Creek Farms offers all-natural eggs to Supercenters across the country
ROGERS — While people like the concept of an egg that hasn’t been tainted by antibiotics, hormones or animal by-products, most don’t like the higher cost they have to pay. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Unveiling two new products … ‘For Dummies’
CHICAGO — Gold Eagle Co. launched the first automotive products to capitalize on the successful For Dummies brand name. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Fire up the coals in just 5 minutes with Quick Coals
STOCKTON, Calif. — Short on time but want to enjoy the great flavor of a charcoal grilled meal? Now you can fire up the grill in just 5 minutes. - Friday, June 2, 2006
SHAREHOLDERS 2006 Great things in store from Bimbo Bakeries USA
FORT WORTH, Texas — Bimbo Bakeries USA has a lot to be excited about — from new products and initiatives to geographic expansion. Bimbo Bakeries USA’s family of brands includes Oroweat, Mrs Baird’s, Francisco, Thomas’ , Tia Rosa, Entenmann’s, Bimbo, Marinela and other regional brands. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Precision Dental & Dentures: Eliminating denture problems
JAY, Okla. — Precision Dental & Dentures in Jay, Okla., can’t do much about your children’s grades, the stock market or the mounting injuries on your favorite football team. But there is one worry in your life it can eliminate — your denture problems. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Blue & You Foundation provides grants to improve health
If you are a nonprofit or governmental agency seeking funding for a healthimprovement program in Arkansas, the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas may be able to help. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Morton makes high-end sea salt available nationwide
CHICAGO, Ill. — Morton, America’s authority on salt, is making high-end sea salt affordable and available to home cooks nationwide. - Friday, June 2, 2006
SHAREHOLDERS 2006 The Ultimate Duck Tape brand duct tape is finally here
AVON, Ohio — Consumers, contractors and duct tape enthusiasts searching for the strongest, stickiest and most durable Duck brand duct tape need to look no further. Henkel Consumer Adhesives Inc. (HCA), a company with more than 30 years of experience in the duct tape business, announces the addition of Duck brand Ultimate duct tape to its existing product line. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Watkins natural-based products: Trusted brand available at Wal-Mart
WINONA, Minn. — Founded in 1868 as the J.R. Watkins Medical Company, Watkins is America’s original pioneer in natural body care and a trusted name for using only the finest ingredients and natural botanicals. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Original California Jelly Blade now available
The unique, patented Water Blade took the market by storm. Now, taking the Water Blade’s technology one step further, the California Car Duster Company is proud to offer the new revolutionary Original California Jelly Blade. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Reynolds’ Greenhouses stock quality plants
By Robert Reynolds
Reynolds’ Greenhouses was established in 1977 and started growing peppers and tomatoes to sell to local garden centers and discount stores. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Choice, guidance keys to a brave new health-plan world
By Rochelle Byrd Sales Manager for Northwest Arkansas
Consumers now have a plethora of health insurance options from which to choose. With the advent of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) combined with more traditional options such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), health insurance choice has exploded. Yet within this newer, broader array of offerings, health insurance choices today are intricate and can be detailed and sometimes difficult to understand, leaving consumers challenged to find the best plan for their health care needs. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Arvest Bank, Bentonville, opens College branch
BENTONVILLE — Arvest Bank, Bentonville, opened their College branch located across the street from the Northwest Arkansas Community College campus. The 4,000-square foot branch opened for business April 17 with nine full-time employees, including lenders and financial services representatives. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Young Liberty Bank continues to thrive
Since its founding in February 2001, Liberty Bank of Arkansas has opened 27 banking centers throughout the state, with nine located in northwest Arkansas. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart to buy fish from MSC-certified fisheries
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart announced in February plans to purchase all of its wild-caught fresh and frozen fish for the North American market from Marine Stewardship Council-certified fisheries within the next three to five years. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Colon & Rectal Surgical Associates gets new teammate in Dr. Rogers
FAYETTEVILLE — Dr. William B. Nowlin announced that Dr. Hollis T. Rogers III will join Colon & Rectal Surgical Associates, P.A. of Fayetteville, effective July 1. Dr. Nowlin, the first colon and rectal surgeon in Washington and Benton counties, opened his practice in 1987. He is one of the few colon and rectal surgeons in Arkansas. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Mercy’s future is bright with a new campus under construction
ROGERS — Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas, a not-for-profit faith-based health system, provides healthcare services to residents in northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri. - Friday, June 2, 2006
La Quinta expands nationwide distribution
DALLAS — La Quinta announced the conversion of 65 corporate-owned Baymont Inn & Suites to the La Quinta Inn brand as part of its accelerated growth and distribution plan, following its acquisition by affiliates of The Blackstone Group in January. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Condos at the Peaks in Rogers to offer luxurious lifestyle
ROGERS — Condos at the Peaks is a concept for the future in convenience, comfort, style and extraordinary quality of life. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Franzus introduces new bottle holder
BEACON FALLS, Conn. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Wal-Mart to add to organic baby items
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart is adding more organic baby food and introducing organic cotton baby clothes, the company said, the latest step in expansion into organics that is part of its strategy for reviving U.S. - Friday, June 2, 2006
Petit Jean Meats to celebrate 78 years
MORRILTON — Petit Jean Meats, an Arkansas institution and family-owned company since 1928, will celebrate 78 years in the food industry this August. - Friday, June 2, 2006
They’re here
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer ``#eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Azale Davis stepped off the chartered bus Wednesday afternoon on the Bentonville Square, impressed with everything the city has to offer. - Thursday, June 1, 2006
Wal-Mart creates more than 125,000 jobs in 2005
Special To The Daily Record
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced in January that the retailer created more than 125,000 new jobs in 2005 and that its average hourly wage for full-time store associates rose from $9.68 to $10.11 over the same period. - Thursday, June 1, 2006
Wal-Mart : Sustainability being sought, achieved on many fronts
By Gary Lookadoo Staff Writer ``#garyl@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — In a visionary speech, Wal-Mart CEO Lee Scott recently talked about challenges of environmental loss and how to replace it with sustainability — the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future. - Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Wal-Mart uses bloggers to buff image
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
Brian Pickrell, a blogger, posted a January note on his Web site attacking state legislation that would force Wal-Mart stores to spend more on employee health insurance. - Monday, May 29, 2006
Regional panel to fight for Wal-Mart’s image
By Christine Van Dusen Cox News Service
ATLANTA — To some it seemed an odd choice when Andrew Young, former mayor of Atlanta and a civil rights icon, recently decided to champion Wal-Mart and lead a company-backed group designed to counter bad publicity and the massive retailer’s image as bully and oppressor. - Sunday, May 28, 2006
Wal-Mart buys land in Pea Ridge
By Annette Beard and Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writers // annetteb@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart has purchased land in Pea Ridge, but city officials shouldn’t get their hopes up. - Friday, May 26, 2006
Wal-Mart adds style to the aisle
By Mark Albright St. Petersburg Times
al-Mart Stores Inc. is going after a more affluent customer, but please don’t use the "U" word. - Sunday, May 21, 2006
Wal-Mart donates $100,000 to Tree of Life
By Jenny Bryers Staff Writer // jennyb@nwanews.com
ROGERS — A $100,000 donation from Wal-Mart will help keep Tree of Life Family Health Center open. - Friday, May 19, 2006
Wal-Mart announces teachers of the year
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — A handful of local teachers are being honored across Benton County as part of Wal-Mart’s Teacher of the Year program. - Sunday, May 14, 2006
New Wal-Mart role has old allies asking: Who is Andy Young?
By Marilyn Geewax Cox News Service
At 74, Andrew Young could be enjoying a quiet retirement following decades of service as a civil rights leader, congressman, United Nations ambassador and Atlanta mayor. - Sunday, May 14, 2006
WAL-MART: Redefining Large
Just how big is the world’s largest retailer? SIZE: Revenues of $315-billion are four times second-place Home Depot’s, about equal to the next five biggest retailers combined. GROWTH: Revenue grew $30-billion in 2006, equal to entire annual sales of Best Buy Inc., the nation’s 13th biggest retailer. Forecast to hit $424-billion in three years. STORES: 6,000-plus stores including 1,200 discount stores, 2,000 Supercenters, 550 Sam’s Clubs and 96 Neighborhood Markets. In 2005 opened five Supercenters a week. EMPLOYEES: 1.4-million, 300,000 more than the U.S. military. REACH: Big player in the United Kingdom, Germany, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and Mexico. NUMBER ONES: Largest food retailer, but chain also sells more than 25 percent of the toothpaste, detergent, DVDs, jewelry and toys sold in the United States. SOURCES: Excluding food, 70 percent of Wal-Mart merchandise is manufactured in China. QUOTE: "If we were a city, we would be the fifth largest in America. If we were a country, we would be the 20th largest in the world." — Le - Sunday, May 7, 2006
City, Wal-Mart work toward agreement
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart wants an interchange, and the city aims to please. - Friday, May 5, 2006
Miracle Day 2006 a success for Arkansas Children’s Hospital
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Several Bentonville Wal-Mart stores and distribution centers were honored during Wal-Mart / Sam’s Club Miracle Day 2006 at Arkansas Children’s Hospital on April 6. Nearly 200 associates, store managers, market managers and the Regional Vice President attended the annual event, which included an awards ceremony, lunch and tour of Arkansas Children’s Hospital. - Sunday, April 23, 2006
Small organic food producers find Wal-Mart stiff competitor
By Kevin Harlin Albany Times Union
HUDSON, N.Y. — By most standards, the 140-acre Farm at Miller’s Crossing is a small operation. But the organic farm is part of a giant industry that’s getting bigger every year. - Sunday, April 23, 2006
Professional recruiter lures new residents
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Cameron Smith knows all about attracting new residents to Bentonville. He’s made a living of it in the past few years. - Sunday, April 23, 2006
A&P retreat shows need for synergy
By Laurie Harrison Staff Writer // laurieh@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — An exercise in "harnessing their thoughts" for the good of Bentonville on Friday revealed a need for better cooperation between diverse business groups, city officials and the world’s largest retailer. - Saturday, April 22, 2006
Wal-Mart executives greet media
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
ROGERS — Journalists from around the world converged on northwest Arkansas on Tuesday to hear about Wal-Mart. - Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Wal-Mart workers decry poor working conditions
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer // jennifert@nwanews.com
ROGERS — While Wal-Mart Stores Inc. set out to spread a positive message at the retailer’s second annual media conference on Tuesday, some Wal-Mart workers painted a different picture. - Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Congress members urge rejection of Wal-Mart bank
By Marilyn Geewax Cox News Service
WASHINGTON — Stepping up a campaign to keep Wal-Mart Stores Inc. out of banking, 45 Congress members asked federal regulators Thursday to deny the retailer’s bank application. - Sunday, March 26, 2006
County schools to get weather radios
The Benton County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security will provide NOAA weather radios to all Benton County schools. This was made possible by a donation from the Wal-Mart /Sam’s Club Foundation. - Sunday, March 26, 2006
Wal-Mart donates to Morning Star Elem.
Wal-Mart donated $1,000 to Central Park at Morningstar Elementary School recently to help in the purchase of document cameras for the school. The check was presented to Assistant Principal Cindy Dewey and student Katrina Munn. - Monday, March 20, 2006
One stop to China from XNA
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer // racheld@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — A flight to Shanghai will soon take less than 18 hours for northwest Arkansas residents. - Sunday, March 19, 2006
Minnesota Senate panel approves ‘Wal-Mart’ health care bill
By Mark Brunswick Minneapolis Star Tribune
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A bill that would require the state’s largest employers to pay health care insurance costs for their workers — commonly known as "the Wal-Mart bill" — passed a Senate committee on Monday, amid concerns from groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce, that it would stifle job growth and do nothing to address skyrocketing health care costs. - Sunday, March 19, 2006
New program for Wal-Mart Suppliers
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer // eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE - The Bentonville /Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce is working to bring members of the supplier community together with a series of quarterly educational seminars for vendors in the area. - Sunday, March 19, 2006
Wal-Mart , activist fight over shirt logo rights
By Christine Van Dusen Cox News !!!!!!!
ATLANTA — Comparing Wal-Mart’s business practices to the Holocaust — figure that might raise the retailer’s hackles ? Uh, yeah. Good guess. - Sunday, March 12, 2006
Wal-Mart officials claim Bowen thrust himself into controversy
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Attorneys for Wal-Mart Stores Inc. claim its former vice president of operations thrust himself into public controversy, thereby becoming a limited-purpose public figure. - Tuesday, March 7, 2006
Wal-Mart to hire ethics director as image makeover continues
By Marilyn Geewax Cox News Service
WASHINGTON — Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the nation’s largest private employer, is seeking one more good worker. - Sunday, March 5, 2006
Wal-Mart to expand employee health coverage
By Marilyn Geewax Cox News Service
WASHINGTON — Wal-Mart Stores Inc., under growing pressure in many states to improve health-care benefits, said Thursday it will expand coverage for its employees and build more than 50 instore health clinics. - Saturday, February 25, 2006
Wal-Mart appeals lawsuit dismissal
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer !``tracyn@nwanews.co
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. continued efforts Friday to void its retirement agreement with Tom Coughlin, who faces a prison sentence after pleading guilty to wirefraud and tax-evasion charges. - Saturday, February 4, 2006
Coughlin wins again
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer ! tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. received another setback Monday when Circuit Judge Jay Finch dismissed the retailer’s latest suit against its former vice chairman. - Tuesday, January 24, 2006
WSJ says Wal-Mart VP will plead to federal wire-fraud , tax-evasion charges
From Staff and Wire Reports
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and attorneys representing Tom Coughlin, former vice chairman for the world’s largest retailer, had no comment in response to an online report by The Wall Street Journal late Friday that stated Coughlin agreed to plead guilty to federal wire-fraud and tax-evasion charges. - Saturday, January 7, 2006
Local company launches apparel line in Wal-Mart
Heartstrings, Inc., headquartered in northwest Arkansas, has launched a new line of inspirational apparel now available in 98 Wal-Mart stores. The Only Son shirts are graphically driven and targeted towards today’s youth/teen market. Mike Baker, the founder and owner of Houndstooth Clothing company, created the Only Son brand and partnered with Heartstrings to offer the new inspirational brand "There is a glut of inspirational ‘message’ T-shirts available in the market. Many are parodies of pop culture items or brands. This is a great point and time for the launch of Only Son. What we are doing with this brand is moving beyond the idea that the theme alone is enough to compete for attention in the marketplace." - Sunday, December 25, 2005
Back and forth
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. claims its former vice chairman Tom Coughlin had a fiduciary duty to disclose his embezzlement and theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of goods and money from the company. - Friday, December 23, 2005
Wal-Mart wants court to deny extension for Coughlin response
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart wants a court to deny former Vice Chairman Tom Coughlin’s request for an extension to respond to the retailer’s written questions and request for documents. The company submitted questions and requests for production of items related to the retailer’s suit against Coughlin, but Coughlin sought an extension. - Saturday, December 17, 2005
Local actors to sign DVDs at Wal-Mart
From Staff Reports
BENTON COUNTY — Twelve actors from northwest Arkansas who appear in "Mr. - Tuesday, December 6, 2005
Coughlin to seek dismissal of latest complaint
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Attorneys for Tom Coughlin plan to seek the dismissal of an amended complaint Wal-Mart filed against its former vice chairman. - Thursday, December 1, 2005
In the spirit of the season
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer jennifert@nwanews.
BENTONVILLE — What began as a Thanksgiving-dinner conservation turned into a public appeal Saturday for Wal-Mart to put "Christmas" back into Christmas. - Sunday, November 27, 2005
Where’s Wal-Mart’s fancy stuff? Try looking online
By Bob Tedeschi New York Times News Service
Walmart.com has broken through its own glass ceiling, selling high-priced platinum and diamond jewelry, cashmere sweaters and other goods designed to appeal more to the Tiffany crowd than to the bargain hunters who browse the company's terrestrial stores. - Friday, November 25, 2005
Wal-Mart Stores seeks declaration
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. may seek to have the court declare Jared Bowen a limited-purpose public figure as a defense in his defamation suit against the retailer. - Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Wal-Mart predicts big season
By Michael Barbaro New York Times
NEW YORK — Wal-Mart Stores has sent an early Christmas card to Wall Street. Its message: Stop worrying about the holidays. - Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Wal-Mart premieres ‘online red kettle’
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Bells will be ringing the glad, glad news at Wal-Mart : Shoppers have nearly twice the time — and much more opportunity — to donate to The Salvation Army this holiday season. - Saturday, November 19, 2005
Wal-Mart manager arrested for embezzling in Rogers
By Brook Reinhard Staff Writer brookr@nwanews.com
ROGERS — Terry Pace was tired of paying so much for gasoline in his 70-mile commute between Missouri and the Pleasant Crossing Wal-Mart Supercenter, so he started stealing money from Wal-Mart’s gas station to make ends meet, according to the Rogers Police Department. - Saturday, November 19, 2005
Buffalo Wild Wings beats out Wal-Mart Home Office cafeterias
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Paul Nelson was surprised Thursday afternoon to discover some good news. - Friday, November 18, 2005
Hatchet : IWal-Mart : Part I
LUCAS ROEBUCK
In case you missed the memo, next week is official Bash Wal-Mart Week. I won’t bore you with the details here, but unions, anti-capitalists and other well-meaning (and some not-so-well-meaning ) activists are scheduled to rally to tell us all why Wal-Mart is the ultimate embodiment of all things evil. - Saturday, November 5, 2005
Coughlin wins first legal battle
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The retirement agreement between Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Tom Coughlin, the retailer’s former vice chairman, prevents the retailer from suing him, according to Tuesday’s ruling of Circuit Judge Jay Finch. - Wednesday, November 2, 2005
Wal-Mart takes page from political playbook
By Michael Barbaro New York Times News Service
BENTONVILLE — Inside a stuffy, windowless room here, veterans of the 2004 Bush and Kerry presidential campaigns sit, stand and pace around six plastic folding tables. - Wednesday, November 2, 2005
Wal-Mart , Waltons pledge millions
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart and the Walton Family Foundation have pledged many more millions to help with the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. - Tuesday, September 6, 2005
Wal-Mart gives $1M for Katrina relief
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart announced it will support The Salvation Army’s disaster-relief effort with a $1 million donation as Hurricane Katrina moved from the Gulf Coast inland into central Mississippi on Monday afternoon. - Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Coughlin asks for dismissal
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Former Wal-Mart Vice Chairman Tom Coughlin claims a release he signed with the retailer bars the company from seeking any claims against him. - Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Wal-Mart denies defaming Bowen
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. denied that it defamed its former vice president of operations. - Saturday, August 13, 2005
Wal-Mart files suit: Company details alleged misappropriations by Coughlin
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — A Wal-Mart lawsuit accuses former Vice Chairman Tom Coughlin of misappropriating hundreds of thousands of dollars for his personal benefit through fraudulent transactions. - Thursday, July 28, 2005
Liquor petitioners wait for answer from Wal-Mart
By Jennifer Turner Staff Writer jennifert@nwanews.
BENTON COUNTY — With a third of the necessary 34,357 signatures gathered, Your Choice Benton County volunteers continue to search for ways to reach people in an effort to put the issue of legalizing retail liquor sales on the ballot. - Thursday, July 28, 2005
Thai ambassador visits for economic growth, Thai cuisine
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer racheld@nwanew
BENTONVILLE — A Thai ambassador visited Bentonville on Thursday, giving nods to several big names and thoroughly enjoying the local Thai cuisine. - Friday, July 22, 2005
Bowen sues Wal-Mart for defamation
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Jared Bowen claims in a lawsuit that his former employer — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. — is waging a defaming war against him in response to his seeking whistleblower status. Attorneys for Bowen filed the suit Thursday in Benton County Circuit Court. Bowen alleges Wal-Mart made false and defamatory statements regarding him to members of the local and national media. - Friday, July 22, 2005
Senior Spotlight : Wal-Mart Good.Works. program pays membership fees
VICTORIA H. GREENSPAN
Just want to keep everyone updated on what’s happening at the SeniorNet. The Wal-Mart Good. Works. - Monday, July 4, 2005
Walton crash investigation could take up to a year
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The craft in which John Walton flew and crashed Monday is a light airplane, not an ultralight aircraft, according to guidelines of the Federal Aviation Administration. - Thursday, June 30, 2005
Walton loved for humility, volunteerism
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — On Thursday, The Philanthropy Roundtable — a national association founded on the principle - tary private action offers the best means of addressing many of society’s needs — will gather in Jackson Hole, Wyo., for a regional meeting. The itinerary for the K-12 Affinity Meetings is littered with lectures like Raising the Bar for Teaching and Learning, and See WALTON on Page 8A - Wednesday, June 29, 2005
NTSB takes over crash investigation
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The investigation into what caused John Walton’s ultralight experimental plane to crash Monday into a sagebrush valley in - Wednesday, June 29, 2005
1946-2005: John Walton killed in crash
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — John Thomas Walton, 58, the second son of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, died Monday afternoon when his ultralight crashed in Grand Teton National Park. - Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Wal-Mart downplays move into east Europe after Scott comments
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. downplayed Monday a Financial Times story in which CEO Lee Scott mentioned Hungary, Poland and Russia as countries in Central and Eastern Europe in which the company would like to expand. - Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Friends remember ‘good guy’
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The news of John Walton’s death on Monday hit northwest Arkansas hard. - Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Good Works Foundation gives to SeniorNet
The Wal-Mart Good Works Foundation has given the Benton County SeniorNet Computer Learning Center a grant that will pay the $40 SeniorNet membership fees for the next 80 seniors that register for classes. - Sunday, June 26, 2005
As the population of Benton County grows, so does its contributions to federal candidates
BY KYLE WEAVER STAFF WRITER KYLEW@NWANEWS.COM
In northwest Arkansas, road construction is a growth issue. Water conservation measures are a growth issue. Three cities all vying to annex the same couple of hundred acres is a growth issue. The problems of Benton County are attributed to growth. The successes are because of growth. - Sunday, June 26, 2005
Fumes send 3 to hospital
By Eleanor Evans Staff Writer eleanore@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Three associates at Wal-Mart’s facility in the 1300 block of Eighth Street were hospitalized after an unknown chemical was released through the building’s ventilation system late Tuesday afternoon. - Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Ex-employee sues Wal-Mart over firing
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer tracyn@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — A former employee for Wal-Mart Stores Inc. claims in a lawsuit that he was fired for reporting abysmal working conditions in Central American factories utilized by the company. - Saturday, June 18, 2005
Vendor brings color to town
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer racheld@nwanew
BENTONVILLE — Another vendor office opening here may not seem like big news, but Datacolor’s unique niche at Wal-Mart requires a closer look. - Thursday, June 16, 2005
Coughlin’s retirement rescinded
By Mike Jones Staff Writer mikej@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — The legal wrangling between Wal-Mart and Tom Coughlin continued Friday when the company rescinded a retirement agreement and related benefits for the former vice chairman of the company’s Board of Directors. - Saturday, June 11, 2005
Fayetteville police help with yearly meeting
By Kate Ward Northwest Arkansas Times
FAYETTEVILLE — The Fayetteville Police Department provided a total of 207.25 manhours to the Wal-Mart shareholders meeting this year, costing a total of $7,271.90. "We have a really good relationship with the locals," said Capt. Casey Brown of the Fayetteville Police Department. - Friday, June 10, 2005
Wal-Mart wants to reach out
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Wal-Mart CEO Lee Scott’s message to stockholders, associates and company executives at the annual shareholders meeting in Fayetteville on Friday focused on efforts the company is making and needs to make to reach out. - Saturday, June 4, 2005
Walton shows support for CEO
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
FAYETTEVILLE — Rob Walton took his chance at the microphone during Friday’s Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting to support current company management but also to express his own consternation with the company’s stock price. - Saturday, June 4, 2005
Wal-Mart swimmers to raise money June 12
From Staff Reports
BENTONVILLE — The Wal-Mart Swim Club will hold a Swim-A-Thon on Sunday, June 12, at the Melvin Ford Aquatic Center at Memorial Park in Bentonville. - Saturday, June 4, 2005
Phone campaign strikes nerve with Wal-Mart
By Kyle Weaver Staff Writer kylew@nwanews.com
BENTONVILLE — Walmart-Watch.com and its parent nonprofit organization, the Center for Community and Corporate Ethics, struck a nerve within Wal-Mart when the group launched an automated phone message campaign in the backyard of the Bentonville-based company on Monday. - Friday, June 3, 2005
Wal-Mart protesters accused of vandalizing University of Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas Times
FAYETTEVILLE — Six people were arrested by University of Arkansas police Wednesday for allegedly defacing university property during Wal-Mart Shareholders Week events. - Friday, June 3, 2005
Parking brings cash to owner of lot near Wal-Mart Home Office
By Rachel Lianna Davis Staff Writer racheld@nwanew
BENTONVILLE — One Bentonville property owner is charging for parking near the Wal-Mart Home Office, and 20 people have taken him up on it so far. - Wednesday, June 1, 2005
