Walmart is laying off hundreds of corporate workers across the country as it relocates many employees to its Arkansas headquarters. The big-box retailer confirmed the layoffs and relocations in a memo sent to employees on Tuesday. Chief People Officer Donna Morris stated that the move is meant to bring more employees back to the office after the Covid-19 pandemic. Walmart brought corporate employees back to its Bentonville, Arkansas headquarters in February 2022 and is now taking that a step further by asking the majority of remote workers and employees in offices in Dallas, Atlanta, and Toronto to relocate. Most will be moved to the company’s Arkansas headquarters, with some also relocating to offices in the San Francisco Bay Area or Hoboken, New Jersey.
The memo also mentioned that some parts of Walmart’s business have made changes that will result in a reduction of several hundred campus roles. Although the overall numbers are small in percentage, the company is focused on supporting each affected associate during these changes. Walmart did not specify how many people were affected by the layoffs. This news comes just days before Walmart’s much-anticipated earnings report on Thursday. The layoffs are the latest cost-cutting measure for the retailer, following the announcement in late April that it would be closing 51 health clinics across several states due to financial sustainability issues.
Walmart is the largest private employer in the U.S. with about 1.6 million employees, most of whom work at its stores across the country. The retailer has another reason for bringing more employees to Bentonville, as it is currently building a nearly 350-acre campus there. The development includes 12 office buildings, along with parking lots, a hotel, and other amenities. Some buildings, such as a fitness center and a daycare, have already opened on the campus. The Wall Street Journal first reported on the layoffs and relocations, highlighting Walmart’s efforts to consolidate its workforce and operations to its main headquarters in Arkansas.
The memo from Chief People Officer Donna Morris emphasized the importance of working together in person to collaborate, innovate, and strengthen the company’s culture. By asking remote workers and employees in certain offices to relocate to Bentonville or other locations, Walmart aims to bring more of its workforce together on a regular basis. The company is committed to supporting associates affected by these changes and has already had discussions with those directly impacted. Walmart will continue to work closely with these associates to help them navigate the best path forward during this transition and beyond.
As Walmart implements these changes and focuses on bringing more employees to its headquarters, it underscores the company’s efforts to streamline operations, increase collaboration, and drive innovation. The retailer’s decision to consolidate its workforce and office locations reflects its ongoing commitment to improving efficiency and maximizing resources. While the layoffs and relocations may be difficult for those affected, Walmart is dedicated to supporting its employees during this transition period and ensuring their continued growth and development within the company. With its new campus development in Bentonville taking shape, Walmart is poised to create a centralized hub for its corporate operations and further solidify its presence in the retail industry.
