Wal-Mart was created by Sam Walton in 1962; the first store was located in Rogers, Arkansas. In 1970 Wal-Mart went public causing growth acceleration with the corporation. Wal-Mart's next big step was automation; they established high automated distribution centers to reduce shipping time and implemented an advanced information system to track inventory, accelerate check-out, and speed up reordering. In 1983, Wal-Mart entering the warehouse business by opening its Sam's Clubs. Wal-Mart also began developing super centers; super centers carry a full line of groceries as well as the same products in the traditional Wal-Marts. By the 1998 Wal-Mart had grown to the world's largest retailer operating with 1869 discount stores, 564 super centers, 451 Sam's Clubs, and 600 foreign stores.

Mission: "We sell for less, satisfaction guaranteed."

Net sales in fiscal 2001increased almost 16 percent to more than $191 billion, representing a growth in revenue

Discipline makes Target the best for their guests, team members, communities and shareholders.

3. Wal-Mart must provide their customers with top-quality merchandise and services at every day low prices.

The Sam's Club Division had exceptional membership renewals fueled by the slowing economy. There was a greater amount of consumers that where attempting to live on a tighter budge. Although most retailer where hurt by this trend, Sam's Club seemed to thrive on it. In addition, Sam's Club upgraded their facilities with pharmacies, optical centers, 1-Hour Photos, and fuel stations. The additional facilities made the chose even easier for consumers to choose Sam's Club over other warehouse retailers.

The company did not end the year in the manner it would have preferred; note that in the above charts, percentages are down from the pervious year in Return on Assets and Return on Shareholder's Equity. This is contributed to the slowdown in the economy. Lee Scott (CEO) has a 4 step plan in order to not only survive the slow economy but to continue to grow.

3. In ensuring brand consistency - meaning they are uncompromising in store housed keeping standards.

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