Walmart Canada ups investment in wage hikes for workers

Ahead of the holiday season, Walmart Canada is increasing its planned wage hikes for workers.

The retailer announced at its Golden Quarter Conference that it is investing an additional C$92 ($68.39 million) in pay increases for eligible supply chain hourly and frontline management, as well as retail hourly associates. The investment follows Walmart Canada’s previous commitment to invest $53 million in higher wages for store associates, which came In July. 

"As a people-led, tech-powered, omnichannel retailer, we're proud to offer wages that are market competitive or better – and our benefit plans are some of the best in the Canadian market," said AnnMarie Mercer, chief people officer at Walmart Canada. "Investing in our people is an ongoing and important part of making sure we continue to attract great associates who want to stay and grow with us."

With more than 100,000 associates, including 40,000 store employees, Walmart Canada is one of the country's largest employers. The retailer says the higher pay paired with “a leading benefit plans, skills training and education offerings” are part of the journey to invest in associates’ long-term success.

"Walmart Canada has a best-in-class supply chain and our associates are at the heart of that," said John Bayliss, chief expansion officer at Walmart Canada. "Investing in cutting-edge technologies, training, and development opportunities continues to be a priority to help our teams thrive and modernize how they work."