Case Study Walmart Essay

Wal-Mart: A Case Study
Michael Johnson
Park University

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to discuss Sam Walton’s industry leader in retail, Wal-Mart.   We will discuss the man behind the idea to include his back ground, his ideals, and his roots.   The competition of Wal-Mart as well as the market conditions are important when watching the development of this company and the downfall of many in the industry.   Wal-Mart will be looked at as both a model of success and a recipe for disaster.   This paper will show several positives and negatives that come with a Wal-Mart opening in a local small town.   We will analyze the corporate culture as well as its strategy for success.   The financial health of the company will also be discussed to determine going forward if the company will continue to be viable.   Recommendations will be made to improve on the core business of retail and a strategy of expansion.

Introduction
Wal-Mart is a company deserving of being considered a mixed bag of tricks.   On one hand you have a company that was founded by a common man, Sam Walton, who was famous for driving his F150 Pickup and not changing at all with his new found billionaire status.   The company focuses on everyday low prices and giving the consumer the most for their money.   On the other hand we have a company that causes major disruption to the communities that they enter.   Wal-Mart causes local companies to decrease prices significantly as well as business real estate.   These issues along with the competitive environment, strategy, and corporate culture of Wal-Mart will be covered.
Sam Walton
  Sam Walton was born March 29, 1918 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma and died April 5 1992.   At the time of his death he was the wealthiest man in America.   Looking at the young Sam Walton you can help but recognize his ambition.   He played basketball and football in high school and led his football team to the state title as quarterback.   He was vice president of his junior class...