10-KPeriod: FY2009

Walmart Inc. Annual Report, Year Ended Apr 1, 2009

Filed April 1, 2009For Securities:WMT

Summary

Walmart Inc. (WMT) reported its fiscal year 2009 results, ending January 31, 2009. The company generated net sales of $401.2 billion, demonstrating its significant scale in the global retail market. Operations are structured across three key segments: Walmart U.S., International, and Sam's Club, contributing 63.7%, 24.6%, and 11.7% of net sales, respectively. The Walmart U.S. segment, the largest contributor, includes discount stores, supercenters, and Neighborhood Markets, along with online retail. The International segment encompasses operations in 14 countries and Puerto Rico, showcasing a broad global footprint. Sam's Club operates membership warehouse clubs in the U.S. The report also details various risk factors, including general economic conditions, competitive pressures, supply chain risks, and legal proceedings, underscoring the dynamic environment in which Walmart operates.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Walmart generated $401.2 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2009.
  • 2The company operates through three primary segments: Walmart U.S. (63.7% of net sales), International (24.6% of net sales), and Sam's Club (11.7% of net sales).
  • 3Walmart U.S. includes discount stores, supercenters, and Neighborhood Markets, serving customers across all 50 states.
  • 4The International segment has a significant global presence, with operations in 14 countries and Puerto Rico.
  • 5Sam's Club operates as a membership warehouse club model in the United States.
  • 6The company faces various risk factors including economic downturns, intense competition, supplier reliability, and a significant number of ongoing legal proceedings, including class-action lawsuits.
  • 7Walmart has a global workforce exceeding 2.1 million employees ('associates').

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary revenue drivers for Walmart in fiscal year 2009 were its three main business segments: Walmart U.S. contributing 63.7% of net sales, the International segment contributing 24.6%, and Sam's Club contributing 11.7%.

Key operational risks include adverse general economic conditions domestically and internationally, intense competition from various retail formats, challenges in expanding both domestic and international operations, potential disruptions in the supply chain, and risks associated with global sourcing of products. The company also highlighted the potential impact of legal proceedings and the need to maintain customer information security.

Walmart serves its customers through three distinct segments: Walmart U.S., which comprises discount stores, supercenters, and Neighborhood Markets; the International segment, with retail operations in 14 countries and Puerto Rico; and Sam's Club, which operates membership warehouse clubs in the United States. This structure allows for diverse retail formats catering to different customer needs and geographic markets.

Walmart's strategy revolves around its 'Everyday Low Price' (EDLP) philosophy, complemented by programs like 'Rollbacks' (temporary price reductions), 'Store of the Community' (tailoring merchandise to local needs), and a focus on a broad merchandise assortment, strong in-stock levels, and convenient operating hours. They also emphasize a 'Clean, Fast and Friendly' customer experience.