Walmart pushes locally-grown products

BENTONVILLE, Ark. Walmart announced that it is giving special focus to locally grown products this holiday season by offering them at affordable prices. The retailer also stressed the fact that buying local helps boost the economy.

"At Walmart we are committed to increasing our locally grown offerings and the number of local small farms we work with," said Pam Kohn, Walmart senior vice president and general merchandise manager for grocery. "Through this program we are able to cut shipping costs and decrease food miles, but most importantly we are offering our customers an opportunity to support their local farmers without worrying about the impact on their wallets."

Walmart's locally grown offerings go beyond the produce aisle. Walmart offers locally grown poinsettias - the traditional plant of choice for decorating and gift giving during the holiday season - in Garden Centers in 20 states across the country.