Shopping Centers Today is the news magazine of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
Issue link: https://sct.epubxp.com/i/109754
R E T A I L I N G T O D A Y purchase agreements. "At the heart of our national political conversation today is one issue: creating jobs to grow the economy," said Simon. "We are meeting with our suppliers on domestic manufacturing and are making a strong commitment to move this forward." Walmart says consumers have misconceptions about the source of the majority of the products on its shelves. According to data from its suppliers, items made, sourced or grown in the U.S. account for about two-thirds of Walmart's product purchases at U.S. stores. "We can do so much more by working in partnership — as an industry and with governments," said Simon. "I've talked with a number of governors, including the incoming chair of the National Governors Association — Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin — about how governors and re- 14 SCT / M A R C H 2 0 1 3 tailers and manufacturers can drive this issue together. Governors from both sides of the aisle are enthusiastic about getting their constituents back to work." This summer Walmart will help organize a manufacturing summit. And beginning Memorial Day, Walmart will offer a job to any honorably discharged veteran during his or her first 12 months off active duty. Most of these will be jobs in Walmart stores and clubs, and some will be at distribution centers or in the home office. The company expects to hire about 100,000 veterans over the next five years. "Hiring a veteran can be one of the best business decisions you make," said Simon. "Veterans have a record of performance under pressure. They're quick learners and team players. They are leaders, with discipline, training and a passion for service. There is a seriousness and sense of purpose that the military instills, and we need it today more than ever." The White House has expressed an interest in working with Walmart and with the rest of the business community on such efforts. Over the next several weeks, the administration will convene the departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, as well as U.S. corporations to encourage training and employment of veterans. The announcement won praises from Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the National Retail Federation. "Walmart is challenging the industry to follow their lead," he said in a press release, "and I have every reason to believe that retailers — the industry responsible for one out of every four jobs — will respond accordingly." SCT