Walmart's strategic store expansion and relentless cost-cutting have catapulted its share price over the years.
The article from Kiplinger discusses Walmart's remarkable stock performance, highlighting how a $10,000 investment in Walmart stock in 1972 would have grown to over $10 million by 2022, representing a return of over 100,000%. This phenomenal growth is attributed to several strategic moves by Walmart. Initially, under Sam Walton's leadership, Walmart focused on rural markets, offering low prices and a broad selection, which helped it expand rapidly. Over the years, Walmart adapted to changing retail landscapes by embracing technology, enhancing its supply chain, and expanding internationally. Key transformations include the introduction of the Supercenter concept, which combined general merchandise with groceries, and significant investments in e-commerce, especially after acquiring Jet.com in 2016. Additionally, Walmart has ventured into health care, advertising, and financial services, diversifying its revenue streams. The article also notes Walmart's commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like Project Gigaton aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and its efforts to improve wages and benefits for employees, which have helped maintain its competitive edge and appeal to investors.