Wal-Mart Stores’ Mexico subsidiary said that new store openings for 2012 will be cut from the originally planned 410 to 430 stores to 325 to 335, due in large part to added real estate documentation procedures.
A Wall Street Journal report said that the Mexico’s Ministry of Public Functions – the country’s public-sector watchdog – will investigate new-store permits secured by Wal-Mart’s Mexico division, Wal-Mart de Mexico.
A report by Reuters said that the Mexican federal comptroller’s office has given the go-ahead to open an investigation into allegations that Wal-Mart Mexico bribed officials to expand its business in the country.
Wal-Mart Stores announced that Eduardo Castro-Wright, 56, vice chairman and CEO of the company’s global e-commerce and global sourcing businesses, will retire on July 1, 2012.
Wal-Mart de Mexico SA said second-quarter profit fell 3.4% as the chain increased spending to open new stores and integrate Central American operations.
Although there were some same-store drops among the discount retail players in March, most beat Wall Street expectations and showed that shoppers are continuing to spend despite a less-than-ideal economic climate.
Wal-Mart de Mexico SAB (Walmex) plans to increase investment by 45% in 2011 from last year as it expands its business in Mexico and Central America, Bloomberg reported.
Wal-Mart de Mexico SA reported Tuesday that profit for the fourth quarter increased 14%, citing newly acquired stores in Central America for the improved performance.