In this current economy, most businesses are either downsizing or thinking of closing. That's not so for Wal-Mart.
Walmart continues to hire thousands of people and open stores. One of those new stores is near Carolina Forest on Highway 501.
New associates continue to stock the store and prepare for the June 17th opening. The 501 store is one of two new Wal-Mart's opening in the area. The second is set to open in Garden City sometime near February 2010.
The new store will hire right at 400 people, including multiple managers. The General Manager, Scott Brisson said less than 10 percent hired were from other stores, the rest are new hires. Allegations circulate concerning Wal-Mart cutting hours of existing employees, while still hiring new people.
"In our area, we promoted several hourly associates to salaried managers last year, year an a half,” said Brisson. “We continue to grow our market, continue to afford opportunities, however the average hourly rate for our associates in the state of South Carolina is $11 dollars an hour, and in the retail industry, that's a good wage."
Wal-Mart's stock dropped since January ending Friday at $51 dollars a share. However, they’re grabbing the opportunity to keep the customers now shopping with them due to the economy.
Brisson said Wal-Mart is taking steps to improve the image of the stores. To start,the aisles are now clutter-free, they lowered shelving to 4 feet high, they added new clothing lines and some stores are undergoing remodeling projects.
"We continue to do well in today's economy,” said Brisson. “What that also affords us are opportunities for folks looking to change careers or out of work and start a new career; an opportunity to come in at entry level positions and salary level positions."
Wal-mart announced earlier this week they will add 22,000 jobs across the country this year. You can apply on http://www.walmart.com
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