The Walmart Way

Who shops at Walmart? Virtually everyone I know. It’s possible that those making more than 6 figures might shop elsewhere but for the rest of us, Walmart has some of the best prices around. Everyone loves Walmart except of course for those thousands of small “mom and pop” stores that went out of business when Sam Walton moved in.

Everyone knows that the best way to buy is from Walmart. It’s efficient, good value and you’ll get a friendly greeting when you walk into the store.

I was always impressed that Walmart was one of the few stores that actually had restrooms readily available when you first walked in. How innovative was that? I’m sure you’ve never had to rush through your shopping cuz when you gotta go, you gotta go. That was just one of the many perks of shopping the Walmart way.

Sam Walton was known for always smiling and telling stories. People are naturally thankful for his innovative approach to shopping and the good deals that are readily had at this store that was built for “average” Joes.

I’m sure that the poor are especially grateful that they have been able to invest in Sam’s kids ensuring that they would have enough for a decent education. Sam had three kids and below is the little nest egg that Sam managed to save through people shopping for cheap stuff at his little empire.

Samuel Robson (Rob) Walton (born Oct 28 1944), eldest son of Sam and Helen Walton; as of 2004, net worth is close to $20 billion;

Jim Carr Walton (born Jun 7 1948), youngest son of Sam and Helen Walton. Net worth $18.7 billion

Alice L. Walton (born Oct 7 1949), only daughter of Sam and Helen Walton. She and her mother each have an estimated net worth of about $18.5 billion and are the richest women in the world. Alice raises horses on Texas ranch, not active in company. Helen not active in company

Ann Kroenke and Nancy Laurie [Sam’s younger brother James “Bud” Lawrence’s two daughters], hold shares in Walmart and are also billionaires in their own right. Ann has net worth of $2.6 billion and Nancy $3 billion.

I’m glad I played my part in ensuring Sam’s children have enough money to pay for the little bobbles that they are so entitled to.

I’m also thrilled that I have had the privilege of aiding in the building of a huge real-estate empire. Not only that, but I even had a role in paying Sam’s heat, electricity, and shop-lifting costs.

I write all this and shake my head to think that the retail business, as defined by Sam Walton is what people consider to be the best way for the average person to purchase the stuff we need.