Market News

Walmart Canada Rebranded

Walmart Canada is planning for a record year of price reductions as it rebranded to operate under a new logo and the slogan: "Save money. Live better." The rebranding addresses the growing customer focus on saving money during difficult economic times and builds upon the company's commitment to having "the best prices." Under the new branding, Walmart Canada's new television commercials ask the question, "What will you do with your Walmart savings?" The ads feature Walmart products used by customers also enjoying family time and popular pastimes. Sales at Walmart Canada grew 6.8% in the fourth quarter, but operating profit and gross margins weakened as customers bought lower-margin food and less clothing, its U.S. parent said. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. reported the Canadian figures as part of a wider release that looked at its global performance. http://cnw.ca/en/releases/archive/February2009/13/c8283.html Source: Canadian Grocer E-Newsletter, February 20, 2009