Report: Walmart memo confirms ‘streamlining’ of some roles

A message Walmart management sent to employees said some jobs are being eliminated as the company transforms to an omnichannel organization.

The internal memo, which an unidentified employee shared with the KNWA TV station in northwest Arkansas, says the discount giant is “streamlining” some roles and adding others so it can create a single merchandising team with a unified view of the customer, as well as improve product team performance and operate more effectively with better data and technology.

The memo, which follows media reports of hundreds of Walmart job cuts, also states that all affected employees will receive pay through the end of the fiscal year with “dedicated support” in their job search process. Laid off employees will be eligible to apply for other positions in the company. Those who are hired will receive one year of salary protection and their bonus for fiscal 2020, while those who leave the company will receive their annual bonus, transition benefits and severance as eligible. Each affected employee can work with an internal recruiter to pursue a new position within the company.

According to the memo, new roles being created in the company as part of its omnichannel transformation will be focused on the areas of supply chain, stores and other facilities. Walmart spokesperson Jami LaMontagne provided KNWA with a statement.

“We are continuing on our journey to create an omn-channel organization within our Walmart U.S. business and we’re making some additional changes this week,” said LaMontagne. “Our customers want to have a seamless experience whether they’re shopping in our stores, using our app or shopping online. Our goal is to deliver that experience while increasing innovation, speed and productivity. We will share additional information after we’ve completed our communication with associates.”