Created in partnership with the Helpdesk on Business & Human Rights
In 1994, Walmart — the world’s largest retailer — inaugurated a Supplier Diversity Programme that aims to continually expand its supplier base with a view to adding diversity to its supply chain. To implement the Programme, Walmart has established a Supplier Diversity Internal Steering Committee with senior leaders from all business units — Operating Divisions, Marketing, Logistics, International, Information Systems, Legal and Real Estate. The Supplier Diversity Internal Steering Committee has been charged with creating a plan of action for doing business with more minority and women-owned suppliers that enhances both Walmart’s and the suppliers’ business growth. The Programme has grown from an initial US$2 million investment in 1994 to a US$158 billion programme as of the end of 2019, impacting 3,000 diverse suppliers both through direct and indirect procurement.