Wal-Mart turns 40

Posted 9:59AM on Tuesday 2nd July 2002 ( 22 years ago )

ROGERS, Ark. - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. makes note of its beginnings Tuesday when it marks 40 years since it opened its first store. The store opened on July 2, 1962, at the northeast corner of Eighth and Walnut Streets, employing 25 people. Bentonville-based Wal-Mart, which grew to become the world's largest company, now has 1.3 million workers. The company grew rapidly. In 1967, Wal-Mart earned $12.6 million among 24 stores. The next year, Wal-Mart opened its first stores outside of Arkansas - in Claremore, Okla., and Sikeston, Mo. In 1979, sales reached $1 billion. Wal-Mart has stores in all 50 states and is the largest retailer in Canada and Mexico. The Rogers store later moved to a larger piece of property nearby. Civic leaders are to mark the spot of the original store with a plaque as part of a day of festivities. The company was founded by Sam Walton, who died in 1992. A number of entertainers are to be on hand at the current store, including singer Barbara Fairchild and actor Barry Williams. "This is the one that started it for all of us," Wal-Mart spokeswoman Sharon Weber said. Weber said store workers - current and former - will be noted as part of Tuesday's ceremonies. Joyce Pendagraff is the longest-serving worker at the Rogers store, having worked for Wal-Mart for 37 years. Her sister, Loretta Hartgrove, has also worked for the same store for 25 years. "Part of the activities on Tuesday will be a reunion of past and current associates," Weber said.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2002/7/192910