Post by : Badri Ariffin

Walmart, America’s largest retailer, is set for a leadership change as CEO Doug McMillon plans to retire early next year. The move, announced Friday, marks the end of a transformative era that saw Walmart embrace technology and expand digital services while keeping prices low.

John Furner, 51, head of Walmart’s U.S. operations, will step in as CEO starting February 1, taking over the reins of a company with 1.6 million U.S. employees and over 2.1 million worldwide. Furner, who began his Walmart journey as an hourly associate in 1993, brings decades of experience, including leading Sam’s Club and Walmart U.S. operations.

Under McMillon, Walmart’s revenue jumped from $485.7 billion to $681 billion, and the stock rose from around $25 to more than $102 per share. His tenure emphasized employee investment, including wage increases, expanded parental leave, and educational programs for career advancement. Walmart also prioritized digital transformation, AI-powered operations, robotics, and faster delivery services, with a third of U.S. orders arriving in under three hours.

McMillon’s leadership was marked by bold social and safety initiatives, including restrictions on firearm sales and open carry policies after mass shootings, as well as sustainability efforts aimed at reducing the company’s carbon footprint.

Despite occasional investor skepticism, McMillon successfully steered Walmart through challenging economic conditions, pandemic-related disruptions, and inflationary pressures while maintaining its appeal across diverse consumer groups.

The transition to Furner signals continuity in Walmart’s strategy, as the company balances growth, technological innovation, and its long-standing focus on affordability and customer loyalty.

#Business News