Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. was founded on principles developed by Sam Walton. These principles carried out every day by hard-working and friendly associates have created a unique corporate culture that is key to Wal-Mart's competitive edge. The basic beliefs guiding Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. are:

Respect for the Individual

Every associate's opinion is respected. Managers are considered "servant leaders" who help new associates realize their potential through training, praise and constructive feedback. An "open door" management philosophy encourages associates to raise questions and concerns in an open atmosphere.

Service to the Customer

The customer is the boss. Everything possible is done to make shopping at Wal-Mart and SAM'S CLUB a friendly, pleasant experience. The "Ten-Foot Attitude" means that associates are to greet each person they see. The "Satisfaction Guaranteed" refund and exchange policy allows customers to be fully confident of Wal-Mart and SAM'S CLUB's merchandise and quality.

Strive for Excellence

Wal-Mart and SAM'S CLUB associates share an exceptional commitment to customer satisfaction. At the start of each day, store associates gather for the Wal-Mart or SAM'S CLUB cheer and review sales from the previous day, as well as discuss their daily goals. "The Sundown Rule" requires a continual sense of urgency, with questions asked in the morning answered before the end of the day.

Our People Make the Difference

Go upward against the trend, give up traditional concepts, and find your own way are part of Sam Walton's ten basic principles. "If you want to succeed in this world, you have got to be creative". Wal-Mart associates all over the world provide innovative ideas on the management of the company. Only innovative ideas can maintain the competitive spirit in such a rapidly growing and fast-changing market-place. Being simple and vigorous, restrained and innovative is the spirit of Wal-Mart.