In a letter to store associates, Walmart said Tuesday it will begin investing in higher wages for employees and expect the raises to bring its average hourly wage to more than $17.50.
“At Walmart, we know our people make the difference. That’s never been more true than today – your talent and dedication to your customers is helping them live better lives every day,” said John Furner, presidents and CEO, Walmart in the letter. “And as you continue to focus on your customers, we’re focused on investing in you – our store associates – through higher wages and new opportunities to gain the skills to serve tomorrow’s customers and grow a career with Walmart.”
The raises include a mixture of associates’ regular annual increase and targeted investments in starting rates for thousands of stores, to ensure Walmart has an attractive pay in the markets in which they operate.
The company also announced it will be introducing higher-paying Auto Care Centers team lead position and elevating the ACC tech position to a higher pay-band that reflects the special skills needed for the role and it’s importance to our business.
“Third, we’re adding new college degrees and certificates to our Live Better U (LBU) education program. These new options are focused on where our business is headed and will equip associates with skills to unlock new career opportunities. Both part-time and full-time associates can participate in LBU on their first day and we’ll pay 100% of the tuition and fees.”
Finally, Walmart is expanding its Associate-to-Driver Program, which pays for supply chain associates to earn their commercial driver’s license and become a Walmart truck driver earning up to $110,000 in their first year.
