You don't have to be from the U.S. to know of Walmart, the largest retail chain in the world. It is owned by the Walton family (possibly the richest family in the world). It has been around since 1962 and has since grown to unbelievable proportions.
Over the years they have opened stores all over the US, Canada and Mexico. And it doesn’t stop there. The Walton family and the Walmart Corporation own many other retail chains in 28 different countries, including: China, Germany, India, Brazil, and the UK. So even if you don’t live in the United States, you are probably still buying at Walmart - you just don’t know it.
So what makes this such a big deal?
Well the fact of the matter is that Walmart is so big, it's disturbing. When you hear about the size and the numbers that are attributed to Walmart, it’s hard not to think about things like "monopoly" and "exploitation". Here is some food for thought, I'm willing to bet that neither you nor your loved ones who shop there know all of this:
* Globally, Walmart says it employs 2.3 million people and it's very likely it employs even more then that. That huge number of people is more than America’s active military personnel (1.43 million) and almost the size of the Chinese army (2.29 million.)
* There are around 4,672 Walmart stores in the United States, more than double the number of stores in other food retail chains. There are even more Walmart International locations, over 6,363 as of 2017. More than 90% of its international stores operate under names other than Walmart, such as Asda, Bodega Aurrera, Seyiu, Best Price, Trust-Mart Hypermarket, and Todo Dia.
* The net profit of Walmart, after taxes and paying preferred dividends, was around $13.64 billion in 2017. And that’s only profit, not sales!
* Out of the 10 richest Americans, four are members of the Walton family. They’re worth more than $30 billion each, just six members of the family combined would hold more wealth than the bottom 40% of the American people.
* Walmart’s CEO, Douglas McMillon, is presumed to be paid 1,034 times more than the average Walmart worker. That is by far one of the biggest top-to-bottom differences in America.
* Walmart says it's visited by almost 140 million shoppers a week in their U.S. stores. That’s the equivalent of about 44% of the American population.
* If you take the size of all the Walmart stores and combine them, it will exceed the size of Manhattan.
* Since Walmart is one of the biggest US gun retailers, it's no shock that it's a frequent scene for shooting incidents. On average there are 70 shooting incidents a year at Walmarts across America.
* The Walmart Corporation and Foundation has donated $1.4 billion in cash and in-kind contributions around the world last year, which makes it one of the most charitable companies in absolute terms. And yet this is less than 0.1% of the net worth of the Walton Family Foundation and rumored to actually be a legal loophole to avoid taxes.
6 Chemical Reactions that Changed the Course of History
Although we rarely pay much attention to the chemistry that constantly surrounds us, these 6 reactions changed history.
The Future of American Malls Isn’t Too Bright
The famous mall culture in America can be coming to an end, and the pandemic isn’t the one to blame...
Do You Know the Truth About These Famous Figures?
Hollywood exaggerates and distorts many historical truths with its movies, but now you're about to find out the truth about some important figures...
These Are 15 of the Most Dangerous Summer Activities
According to medical professionals, summer is known as “trauma season.” Here are 15 of the most dangerous summer activities.
The Dubai Mall Is Something to Be Seen
You could do a lot more at Dubai's unbelievable mall than just shop. Take a tour of the luxurious complex with this video.
Who Knew Statistics Could Be SO Funny!
Raf Schoenmaekers combined his love for digital art and engineering background to tell some truths using graphs in this funny comics.
The Full Story of Amelia Earhart and the Nikumaroro Bones
What happened to Amelia Earhart has always remained a mystery, however a new study has now almost certainly established exactly what did.
News That Inspires: Positive Stories From Around the World
There are so many good things happening in the world. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring news updates to brighten your day.
10 Richest People From History You Should Know About
A look at 10 of the richest people that lived in history. From emperor Mansa Musa to Muammar Gaddafi, it presents the insane sums these people had.
10 Questions You Always Wanted the Answer To
Let's dive into ten questions you've always wanted to ask and uncover the intriguing science behind everyday phenomena.
10 Incredible Magic Tricks You Didn't Know You Could Do
Time to try out some really cool magic tricks using just your hands...
10 Underrated Movies That Should be Seen by More People
Imploring all cinema buffs to check out these criminally underrated movies!
Meet One of the World's Most Prolific Record Breakers
Watch American David Rush achieve an unusual feat – breaking 52 records in 52 weeks!
Wish Someone a Lovely Day With This Great Song...
This uplifting song is going to make anyone's day, guaranteed!
Fascinating Facts About The Middle Ages You Never Knew
If you thought you had read everything about the Middle Ages in school, you are mistaken. Read these interesting facts from that era.
You Won't Believe What This Man Builds Single Handedly
Watch as this man single handed builds a beautiful underground house, complete with pool.
10 Emmy-Winning Netflix Shows You Don't Wanna Miss...
if you're in need of a binge-worthy series and haven't explored these recommendations yet, prepare to be captivated.
Incredible: 100 Days Building an Underground Hut
Watch the incredible structure these men build in the video and how it was made in this fascinating video.
911 Operators Have to Deal With the Craziest Cases...
911 operators in the United States are usually the ones to deal with unusual situations and emergencies. Here are 9 unbelievably crazy stories from them.
Yasuke: The Story of the African Samurai
The incredible historical story of an African man who went to Japan on a Portuguese ship and never came back, remaining as a powerful Samurai named Yasuke.
The Stories Behind these Historic Swords are Fascinating
Discover the legends behind these historic swords
Step Back In Time: A Glimpse Into '50s and '60s New York
New York City was a vastly different places in the 1950s and 60s. These black and white photos by Vivian Maier captured it perfectly.
Beautiful! All Dog Lovers Can Relate to This Touching Poem
Any dog lover can relate to this touching poem by Jimmy Stewart about his beloved dog Beau. Send this poem to those you know who love dogs too.
This Is What $300,000 Will Buy In 15 Different Countries
If you dream of living overseas, you should know your dream is more attainable than you think. This is what $300,000 would buy you in 15 different countries.
These Foreign Laws Are Simply Too Weird For Words...
Discover 8 of the weirdest prohibitions from around the world that are bound to make you chuckle!
16 Really Weird Facts About Famous World Events
Some really weird things happened at the most famous events in world history. Here are 16 really weird facts about famous world events.
Every Common Phrase Started Somehow...
The origins of these common phrases are fascinating.
Millennials Are Killing These 12 Industries...
The preferences of millennials are destroying dozens of industries. Here are 12 industries that they're killing.
I Can't Wait to Try These Exciting Kitchen Inventions
Whether you like cooking of not, you'll surely appreciate these ingenious kitchen gadgets designed to make life easier.
7 Mythical Characters Who Actually Existed
Did you know that there are some characters from mythology that might have existed in real life? Let's find out about some of them.
Good News Alert! 11 Positive Things You Need to Know About
If you look for good news, you’ll always find it. Here are some wonderful things happening around us right now.
10 Difficult Words in English Everyone Should Know
English has many difficult words with meanings that are nearly impossible to guess, which makes them super tough to remember. Here are 10 such words
Hark Back to Meiji-Era Japan With These Stunning Pictures
The Meiji Era was a time of great change for Japan, transforming from a feudal state into a capitalist, imperialist one. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
1950s Debunked: Correcting Misconceptions About the Era
The 1950s may not have been as idyllic as we have been made to believe.
15 Unique and Powerful Armors Worn by Heroes and Warriors
Here’s a treat for history buffs! Check out the most amazing types of armor throughout history.
These 6 Mysterious Objects Can't Be Explained by Anyone
Archaeology is a very rewarding discipline, but there are some mysteries that never get solved. Take these 6 ancient objects. What they are is anyone's guess!
There is No Greater Blessing than Your Family
Beautiful Words: Having a family to care for is a blessing.
Have You Been Believing These Christmas Myths Too?
Read on for several myths about Christmas stories and traditions.
12 Accurate Facts That Sounds TOO Weird to Believe
With authentic facts like these, who needs fiction?
20 Cognitive Biases Ruining Our Decision Making Process
If you find it hard to make a decision, these cognitive stumbling blocks could be what's affecting your behavior.
How to Detect a Liar, Explained by a Former FBI agent
Former FBI agent explains about deception detection methods, and debunks common myths.
I've Never Heard This Amazing Tale From the 2nd World War
This is going to be one of the most amazing stories you've ever heard. I guarantee it.
Watch This Couple Go Through 60 Years of Aging...
This young couple found out with some magical help from talented makeup artists. The results are remarkable, and the ending filled my eyes with tears.
The USA 110 Years Ago... What Was It LIKE?
We take so much for granted in the modern world. Read through these astonishing facts and realize just how different life was in the US back in 1910.
What Does the Color of an Egg Yolk Mean? Find Out Here!
Ever wondered what the color of an egg yolk says about the quality of the egg? If so, then wonder no more...