Walmart: Business Model, SWOT Analysis, and Competitors 2023

In this blog article, we will delve into the business model of Walmart, one of the largest retail corporations in the world. With a focus on providing affordable products to customers, Walmart has built a reputation for its low prices and wide range of offerings. We will also conduct a SWOT analysis to examine the company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Additionally, we will explore the competitive landscape of Walmart, highlighting its key rivals in the retail industry as we look ahead to the year 2023.

What You Will Learn:

• Who owns Walmart and the background of its ownership structure
• Walmart's mission statement and how it guides the company's operations
• The various ways in which Walmart generates revenue and sustains profitability
• An explanation of the Walmart Business Model Canvas and how it applies to the company's success
• Insight into Walmart's competitors and the challenges they pose
• A comprehensive SWOT analysis of Walmart, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Who owns Walmart?

The Walton Family: A Legacy of Ownership

When it comes to the question of who owns Walmart, the answer lies in the hands of one of the wealthiest families in the world - the Walton family. Walmart was founded by Sam Walton in 1962, and since then, it has grown into the largest retailer in the world. Sam Walton's vision and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for the success of the company, and his family has continued to play a significant role in its ownership and management.

The Walton family's ownership of Walmart can be traced back to Sam Walton's descendants. After Sam Walton's passing in 1992, his fortune was divided among his immediate family members, primarily his wife, children, and grandchildren. Today, the Walton family collectively owns a majority stake in Walmart, with individual family members holding significant shares in the company.

The Walton Family's Influence on Walmart

The Walton family's influence on Walmart extends beyond their ownership stake. They have been actively involved in the company's management and decision-making processes. The family members have served on Walmart's board of directors and have held key executive positions. Their deep understanding of the company's values and principles has shaped Walmart's culture and business strategies over the years.

Moreover, the Walton family has played a crucial role in shaping Walmart's philanthropic initiatives. They have established the Walton Family Foundation, which focuses on supporting education, environmental conservation, and other charitable causes. Through their foundation, the family has made significant contributions to various communities and organizations around the world.

The Power of Family Ownership

The ownership of Walmart by the Walton family highlights the power of family ownership in shaping the destiny of a company. Their long-term perspective and commitment to the company's growth have been instrumental in Walmart's success. Unlike publicly traded corporations that are subject to the interests of various shareholders, family-owned businesses can often maintain a stronger sense of purpose and continuity.

The Walton family's ownership of Walmart has not been without criticism, with concerns raised about income inequality and the impact on small businesses. However, it is undeniable that their ownership has played a pivotal role in Walmart's rise to dominance in the retail industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of who owns Walmart is answered by the Walton family, who collectively own a majority stake in the company. Their ownership has been accompanied by a deep involvement in the management and decision-making processes, as well as a commitment to philanthropy. The Walton family's ownership exemplifies the power of family ownership in driving the success and shaping the future of a company.

What is the mission statement of Walmart?

Understanding Walmart's Mission Statement

Walmart, being one of the largest multinational retail corporations, has a clear and concise mission statement that guides its operations and strategies. The mission statement of Walmart can be summarized as follows: "We save people money so they can live better."

This mission statement emphasizes Walmart's commitment to providing affordable products and services to its customers. By offering low prices, Walmart aims to improve the quality of life for its customers, enabling them to live better within their means. Walmart strives to enhance the financial well-being of its customers by helping them stretch their budgets further.

Core Values supporting the Mission Statement

To achieve its mission, Walmart adheres to a set of core values that align with its overall purpose. These values include:

1. Customer Focus: Walmart places its customers at the center of everything it does. By understanding their needs and exceeding their expectations, Walmart builds long-term relationships with its customers.

2. Respect for Individuals: Walmart values diversity and treats every individual with respect and dignity. It encourages an inclusive and supportive work environment for its associates, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork.

3. Strive for Excellence: Walmart is committed to continuous improvement and excellence in all aspects of its operations. It aims to be the best retailer by consistently delivering exceptional value, quality, and service to its customers.

4. Act with Integrity: Walmart conducts its business with the highest level of integrity and ethics. It follows all applicable laws and regulations, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

5. Embrace Change: Walmart embraces change and innovation to stay ahead in the ever-evolving retail industry. It actively seeks new ideas, technologies, and strategies to enhance the shopping experience and drive business growth.

Impact on Walmart's Business Strategy

Walmart's mission statement serves as a guiding principle for its business strategy. The company focuses on three key strategic priorities to fulfill its mission:

1. Everyday Low Prices: Walmart's commitment to saving people money is evident through its "Everyday Low Prices" strategy. By leveraging its vast scale and efficient supply chain, Walmart strives to offer the lowest prices on a wide range of products, ensuring affordability for its customers.

2. Customer Experience: To help people live better, Walmart places significant emphasis on enhancing the overall customer experience. This includes improving store layouts, increasing product variety, and investing in online platforms to provide convenience and accessibility to customers.

3. Community Engagement: Walmart recognizes the importance of giving back to the communities it serves. Through various charitable initiatives, grants, and volunteer programs, Walmart actively contributes to the well-being and development of local communities, aligning with its mission to help people live better.

In conclusion, Walmart's mission statement reflects its commitment to saving people money and improving their lives. It highlights the core values of customer focus, respect for individuals, excellence, integrity, and embracing change. By aligning its business strategy with this mission, Walmart continues to be a leading global retailer, dedicated to serving its customers and communities.

How does Walmart make money?

Retail Sales

The primary source of revenue for Walmart is through its retail sales. As the largest retailer in the world, Walmart generates a significant portion of its income through the sale of a wide variety of products across multiple categories. From groceries and household goods to electronics and apparel, Walmart offers an extensive range of merchandise to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. By leveraging its massive network of stores and e-commerce platforms, Walmart is able to attract millions of shoppers, both in-store and online, resulting in substantial sales volume and revenue.

Walmart's Store Format

Walmart operates under different store formats, which contribute to its revenue generation. The company operates Walmart Supercenters, which combine a grocery store and general merchandise under one roof. These Supercenters offer convenience to customers by providing a one-stop shopping experience. Additionally, Walmart operates smaller-format stores such as Walmart Neighborhood Market, which focuses primarily on groceries and serves local communities. Each store format has its own revenue stream, further diversifying Walmart's income.

E-commerce and Online Sales

In recent years, Walmart has placed a strong emphasis on expanding its e-commerce presence to adapt to the changing retail landscape. Through its online platform, Walmart.com, the company has witnessed significant growth in online sales. Customers can purchase products from various categories, including electronics, home goods, clothing, and more, without having to visit a physical store. Walmart's e-commerce strategy also includes offering same-day delivery, curbside pickup, and other convenient options, further enhancing the shopping experience for its online customers. E-commerce sales contribute to Walmart's overall revenue and help the company remain competitive in the digital era.

Membership Programs

Walmart offers membership programs such as Walmart+, which provide additional benefits to customers in exchange for a subscription fee. Walmart+ members enjoy perks like unlimited free delivery, fuel discounts, and access to exclusive deals. By offering these membership programs, Walmart not only generates additional revenue but also fosters customer loyalty. The recurring subscription fees contribute to the company's overall financial success.

Advertising and Partnerships

Another way Walmart generates revenue is through advertising and partnerships. Walmart has a vast network of suppliers and brands that pay for advertising space within its stores and on its website. These partnerships allow suppliers to showcase their products and reach a wide customer base. Additionally, Walmart offers sponsored product placements, both online and in-store, enabling brands to increase their visibility and drive sales. Advertising and partnerships provide an additional revenue stream for Walmart while benefiting its suppliers and enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.

In conclusion, Walmart's revenue primarily comes from its retail sales, encompassing various store formats, including Supercenters and smaller-format stores. The company's e-commerce platform, membership programs, and strategic partnerships also contribute significantly to its financial success. By diversifying its income sources and adapting to changing consumer preferences, Walmart continues to thrive as one of the world's leading retailers.

Walmart Business Model Canvas Explained

Introduction to the Walmart Business Model Canvas

The Walmart Business Model Canvas is a strategic management tool that provides a comprehensive overview of how Walmart creates, delivers, and captures value. Developed by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur, the Business Model Canvas helps organizations understand their business model and identify potential areas for improvement and innovation.

Key Elements of the Walmart Business Model Canvas

Customer Segments

Walmart caters to a wide range of customer segments, including individuals and families seeking affordable everyday products, small businesses looking for bulk purchases, and online shoppers seeking convenience and competitive prices. By targeting multiple customer segments, Walmart ensures a diverse customer base and maximizes its market reach.

Value Proposition

Walmart's value proposition lies in its ability to offer "Everyday Low Prices" on a wide range of products. By leveraging its massive scale and strong supplier relationships, Walmart is able to negotiate lower prices and pass on the savings to its customers. In addition to affordability, Walmart also focuses on convenience, providing a one-stop shopping experience with a vast selection of products under one roof.

Channels

Walmart operates through a multi-channel approach, combining brick-and-mortar stores, e-commerce platforms, and a strong presence in the grocery sector with its Walmart Supercenter and Neighborhood Market formats. This omni-channel strategy allows Walmart to reach customers through various touchpoints and cater to their diverse shopping preferences.

Customer Relationships

Walmart builds customer relationships by providing a seamless shopping experience. With its focus on low prices and convenience, Walmart aims to establish long-term relationships with its customers, encouraging repeat purchases and building customer loyalty. Additionally, Walmart invests in customer service initiatives to address any issues or concerns promptly.

Revenue Streams

Walmart generates revenue primarily through the sale of products across its various retail formats. In addition, the company also offers financial services, such as money transfers, check cashing, and prepaid cards, generating additional revenue streams. Walmart also earns revenue through advertising and partnerships with suppliers and brands, allowing them to promote their products within Walmart stores.

Key Activities

Walmart's key activities include sourcing and procurement, inventory management, retail operations, and supply chain management. The company focuses on efficient logistics and distribution networks to ensure products are readily available and delivered to stores in a timely manner. Walmart also invests heavily in technology and data analytics to optimize its operations and improve customer experience.

Key Resources

Walmart's key resources include its extensive network of physical stores, strong supplier relationships, advanced IT infrastructure, and a highly efficient supply chain. These resources enable Walmart to maintain a competitive advantage by offering low prices, ensuring product availability, and delivering a seamless shopping experience.

Key Partnerships

Walmart collaborates with a wide range of partners to enhance its business model. This includes suppliers and manufacturers, logistics and transportation providers, technology companies, and financial institutions. By building strategic partnerships, Walmart strengthens its supply chain, improves operational efficiency, and expands its product offerings.

Cost Structure

Walmart's cost structure is focused on achieving operational efficiency and maintaining low prices. The company leverages its scale and bargaining power to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, reducing procurement costs. Walmart also invests in technology and automation to streamline operations and minimize labor costs.

Conclusion

The Walmart Business Model Canvas provides a holistic view of how Walmart operates and creates value for its customers. By understanding the key elements of Walmart's business model, it becomes evident why the company has been able to achieve long-term success and become a dominant player in the retail industry. The Business Model Canvas serves as a valuable tool for analyzing and optimizing business models, enabling organizations to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

Which companies are the competitors of Walmart?

Overview of Walmart's Competitors

Walmart, being one of the largest retail corporations in the world, faces competition from various companies across different sectors. These competitors vary in terms of their business models, target markets, and product offerings. Here are some notable companies that compete with Walmart:

1. Target

Target is one of the most prominent competitors of Walmart, particularly in the United States. Similar to Walmart, Target operates as a general merchandise retailer, offering a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and groceries. Both companies strive to provide customers with affordable prices and convenient shopping experiences. However, Target differentiates itself by focusing on a more upscale and trendy image, catering to a slightly different demographic than Walmart.

2. Amazon

Amazon, the e-commerce giant, poses a significant threat to Walmart's dominance. With its vast online marketplace and efficient delivery services, Amazon has transformed the retail industry. The company offers an extensive range of products, including groceries through its acquisition of Whole Foods Market. While Walmart is also expanding its e-commerce operations, Amazon's dominance in the online retail space continues to challenge Walmart's market share.

3. Costco Wholesale

Costco Wholesale is a membership-based warehouse retailer that competes with Walmart's Sam's Club division. Both companies offer bulk purchases at discounted prices, targeting price-conscious consumers and small businesses. While Walmart operates numerous stores across the country, Costco focuses on a smaller number of large-scale warehouse locations. Costco's loyal customer base and reputation for quality products pose a competitive threat to Walmart's membership-based retail business.

4. Kroger

Kroger is one of the largest supermarket chains in the United States, specializing in groceries and related products. While Walmart offers groceries in its stores, Kroger focuses solely on this sector and has a strong presence in local communities. Kroger differentiates itself by providing a wide range of fresh produce, organic options, and specialty products. Walmart's expansion into the grocery market has intensified the competition between the two companies, particularly in terms of pricing and product selection.

5. Best Buy

Best Buy, a leading electronics retailer, competes with Walmart in the consumer electronics market. While Walmart offers a wide variety of electronics alongside other products, Best Buy specializes in this sector, providing customers with a more extensive selection and knowledgeable staff. Best Buy's focus on customer service and expertise in the electronics industry gives it a competitive advantage over Walmart in this specific market segment.

Conclusion

While Walmart remains a formidable force in the retail industry, these competitors present ongoing challenges and opportunities for the company. Target, Amazon, Costco Wholesale, Kroger, and Best Buy are just a few examples of the companies that directly compete with Walmart, each offering unique strengths and strategies to attract customers. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, it will be intriguing to see how Walmart adapts and competes with these rivals to maintain its market position.

Walmart SWOT Analysis

Strengths

• Strong brand recognition: Walmart is one of the most well-known retail brands globally. Its logo, store layout, and marketing efforts have created a strong brand image and customer loyalty.

• Wide product assortment: Walmart offers a wide range of products, including groceries, electronics, clothing, home goods, and more. Its vast assortment appeals to a broad customer base and allows for one-stop shopping convenience.

• Economies of scale: Walmart's massive size and global presence provide it with significant economies of scale. By purchasing large quantities of products, Walmart can negotiate lower prices from suppliers, giving it a competitive advantage in terms of pricing.

• Efficient supply chain: Walmart has invested heavily in developing an efficient supply chain system. Through advanced logistics and inventory management, the company ensures that products are delivered to stores in a timely manner, reducing stockouts and improving customer satisfaction.

Weaknesses

• Negative public perception: Walmart has faced criticism for its labor practices, treatment of employees, and impact on local businesses. These controversies have negatively affected its reputation and may deter some socially conscious consumers from supporting the brand.

• Limited international success: While Walmart has a strong presence in the United States, its international operations have not been as successful. The company has struggled to adapt to local preferences and faced challenges in some markets, limiting its growth potential outside of the US.

• Reliance on physical stores: Despite its efforts to expand its online presence, Walmart still heavily relies on its brick-and-mortar stores. This dependence on physical locations can be a weakness in an era where e-commerce is rapidly growing.

Opportunities

• E-commerce growth: Walmart has made significant investments in its e-commerce capabilities, including the acquisition of online retailers like Jet.com and Flipkart. As more consumers shift towards online shopping, Walmart has an opportunity to capitalize on this trend and expand its online presence.

• International expansion: Although Walmart has faced challenges in certain international markets, it still has room for growth in untapped regions. By adapting its strategy to local preferences and investing in local partnerships, Walmart can successfully expand its global footprint.

• Sustainability initiatives: With increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and practices, Walmart has the opportunity to enhance its sustainability efforts. By offering more eco-friendly products, reducing its carbon footprint, and supporting responsible sourcing, Walmart can attract environmentally conscious consumers.

Threats

• Intense competition: Walmart operates in a highly competitive retail industry. It faces competition from traditional retailers, e-commerce giants like Amazon, and discount stores. Intense competition can erode market share and put pressure on pricing and profitability.

• Changing consumer preferences: Consumer preferences and shopping behaviors are constantly evolving. If Walmart fails to adapt to these changes, it risks losing customers to competitors that better cater to shifting needs, such as online convenience, personalized experiences, or sustainable options.

• Economic fluctuations: Walmart's performance is closely tied to the overall health of the economy. During economic downturns, consumers may reduce discretionary spending, impacting Walmart's sales and profitability. Additionally, inflation, rising labor costs, or fluctuations in exchange rates can also pose challenges for the company.

In conclusion, Walmart has several strengths, including its strong brand recognition, wide product assortment, economies of scale, and efficient supply chain. However, it also faces weaknesses such as negative public perception and limited international success. By capitalizing on opportunities like e-commerce growth, international expansion, and sustainability initiatives, while mitigating threats such as intense competition, changing consumer preferences, and economic fluctuations, Walmart can navigate the dynamic retail landscape and maintain its position as a market leader.

Key Takeaways

• Walmart is owned by its shareholders, with the Walton family being the largest individual shareholders.
• The mission statement of Walmart is to save people money so they can live better.
• Walmart makes money primarily through its retail operations, selling a wide range of products at low prices.
• The Walmart Business Model Canvas highlights key elements such as customer segments, value proposition, channels, customer relationships, revenue streams, key activities, key resources, and key partnerships.
• Some of the main competitors of Walmart include Amazon, Target, Costco, and Kroger.
• In terms of SWOT analysis, Walmart's strengths include its scale and market dominance, while its weaknesses include labor-related controversies. Opportunities for Walmart include e-commerce growth, while threats include competition and changing consumer preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Walmart is a multinational retail corporation that has gained immense success and recognition over the years. As for who owns Walmart, it is mainly owned by the Walton family, with a significant percentage of shares held by other shareholders.

The mission statement of Walmart is to save people money so they can live better. This mission statement drives the company's focus on providing affordable products and services to its customers.

Walmart makes money through various revenue streams, including the sale of merchandise, groceries, and pharmaceutical products. Additionally, the company generates income through its membership program, advertising, and financial services.

By examining the Walmart Business Model Canvas, we can see how the company utilizes key resources, activities, and partnerships to create value and generate revenue. Through its extensive supply chain, efficient distribution network, and strategic partnerships, Walmart is able to offer its products at competitive prices and maintain its market leadership.

When it comes to competition, Walmart faces numerous competitors in the retail industry. Some of its main rivals include Target, Costco, Amazon, and Kroger. These companies constantly strive to gain market share and compete with Walmart in terms of pricing, product offerings, and customer experience.

Lastly, conducting a SWOT analysis on Walmart reveals the company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Walmart's strengths lie in its extensive global presence, economies of scale, and strong brand image. However, weaknesses such as labor issues and negative public perception pose challenges. Opportunities for Walmart include expanding into e-commerce and international markets, while threats include intense competition and changing consumer preferences.

Overall, Walmart's success can be attributed to its commitment to its mission statement, innovative business model, and ability to adapt to evolving consumer needs. As the retail industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Walmart continues to position itself and maintain its market dominance.

FAQs

What is Walmart's SWOT analysis?

Strengths:

1. Strong brand image and global presence: Walmart is one of the largest retail companies in the world, with a strong brand reputation and a presence in multiple countries.
2. High economies of scale: Walmart's large size allows it to negotiate lower prices with suppliers and gain cost advantages over competitors.
3. Extensive product assortment: Walmart offers a wide range of products across various categories, providing customers with a one-stop shopping experience.
4. Efficient supply chain management: Walmart has a sophisticated supply chain system that enables it to minimize costs, reduce inventory levels, and deliver products efficiently.
5. Strong financial performance: The company consistently generates high revenue and profits, which allows it to invest in growth initiatives and withstand economic downturns.

Weaknesses:

1. Negative public perception: Walmart has faced criticism for its labor practices, treatment of employees, and impact on local communities, leading to a negative public image in some cases.
2. Employee turnover and labor lawsuits: The company has been involved in various labor-related lawsuits and has high employee turnover rates, which can impact productivity and customer service.
3. Limited online presence: Walmart has been relatively slow in adapting to the e-commerce space, which has resulted in a weaker online presence compared to some competitors.
4. Dependence on China for sourcing: A significant portion of Walmart's products are sourced from China, which exposes the company to risks related to trade tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rising labor costs.

Opportunities:

1. E-commerce growth: Walmart has the opportunity to further develop its online platform and grow its e-commerce business to compete with companies like Amazon.
2. Expansion into emerging markets: The company can expand its operations into emerging markets, where there is potential for growth and less competition.
3. Sustainability and ethical practices: Walmart can improve its sustainability initiatives and focus on ethical sourcing to meet increasing consumer demand for environmentally friendly and socially responsible products.
4. Health and wellness trends: Walmart can capitalize on the growing health and wellness industry by expanding its offering of organic, natural, and healthier products.

Threats:

1. Intense competition: Walmart faces intense competition from various retailers, both offline and online, which puts pressure on pricing and market share.
2. Changing consumer preferences: Shifts in consumer preferences, such as increased demand for e-commerce and online shopping, can impact Walmart's traditional retail business.
3. Economic factors: Economic downturns, inflation, and changes in consumer spending patterns can negatively affect Walmart's sales and profitability.
4. Regulatory challenges: Walmart operates in multiple countries and is subject to various regulations, including labor laws, trade policies, and taxation, which can pose challenges and impact its operations.

What are 3 weaknesses of Walmart?

1. Labor practices: Walmart has faced criticism for its labor practices, including low wages, inadequate benefits, and poor working conditions. This has led to various lawsuits and protests from employees and labor rights organizations.

2. Negative impact on local economies: Walmart's entry into new markets often results in the closure of smaller, locally-owned businesses. Critics argue that this leads to a loss of jobs, reduced competition, and a decline in the overall economic health of communities.

3. Environmental concerns: Walmart has been accused of being a major contributor to environmental issues, such as excessive waste, pollution, and unsustainable sourcing practices. Despite some efforts to improve sustainability, the company still faces criticism for not doing enough to mitigate its environmental impact.

What are the threats to Walmart SWOT analysis?

Some of the threats to Walmart in a SWOT analysis include:

1. Intense competition: Walmart faces competition from various retailers, both brick-and-mortar and online, which can affect its market share and profitability.

2. Increased online shopping: The rise of e-commerce has made it easier for customers to shop online, which can result in reduced foot traffic in Walmart stores.

3. Economic factors: Economic downturns and fluctuations in consumer spending can impact Walmart's sales and revenue.

4. Negative public perception: Walmart has faced criticism in the past for its labor practices and impact on local communities, which can harm its reputation and brand image.

5. Regulatory challenges: Changes in regulations, such as labor laws or environmental regulations, can increase compliance costs for Walmart and impact its operations.

6. Supplier relationships: Walmart heavily relies on its suppliers, and any disruptions in the supply chain or conflicts with suppliers can affect its ability to offer products at competitive prices.

7. Global expansion challenges: Walmart operates in various countries, and political, social, and cultural factors can pose challenges to its international expansion efforts.

8. Cybersecurity threats: As a large retailer, Walmart is at risk of cyberattacks and data breaches, which can compromise customer information and damage its reputation.

9. Changing consumer preferences: Shifts in consumer trends and preferences, such as increased demand for sustainable and ethically sourced products, may require Walmart to adapt its offerings and strategies.

10. COVID-19 pandemic: The ongoing pandemic has affected the retail industry significantly, with lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and reduced consumer spending impacting Walmart's operations and financial performance.

What are the weaknesses of Walmart business?

Some of the weaknesses of Walmart's business include:

1. Negative public perception: Walmart has faced criticism for its treatment of employees, including low wages and limited benefits. The company has also been accused of driving small businesses out of business and negatively impacting local communities.

2. Labor disputes and lawsuits: Walmart has faced numerous labor disputes and lawsuits related to issues such as wage theft, discrimination, and unfair labor practices. These incidents have led to damage to the company's reputation and financial losses.

3. Dependence on overseas manufacturing: A significant portion of Walmart's products are manufactured overseas, particularly in countries with low labor costs. This dependence exposes the company to risks such as supply chain disruptions, political instability, and changes in trade policies.

4. Competition from e-commerce giants: With the rise of online shopping, Walmart faces intense competition from e-commerce giants like Amazon. Despite efforts to expand its online presence, Walmart's e-commerce business still lags behind its competitors in terms of market share.

5. Inability to penetrate certain markets: Walmart has faced challenges in entering and succeeding in certain international markets, such as Germany and South Korea. Cultural differences, regulatory hurdles, and local competition have hindered the company's growth in these markets.

6. Environmental impact: As one of the largest retailers in the world, Walmart's operations have a significant environmental footprint. The company has been criticized for its carbon emissions, waste generation, and unsustainable sourcing practices. These concerns can impact its reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.

7. Vulnerability to economic downturns: Walmart's business model heavily relies on offering low prices to attract customers. During economic downturns, consumers may reduce their spending and opt for even cheaper alternatives, which can impact Walmart's sales and profitability.

8. Large size and bureaucracy: Walmart's vast size and bureaucratic structure can make decision-making slow and hinder the company's ability to adapt to changing market conditions. This can result in missed opportunities and an inability to respond quickly to competitive threats.

It's important to note that while Walmart has these weaknesses, it also has numerous strengths that have contributed to its success as one of the largest retailers in the world.