Founded in Bentonville, Walmart is one of the world’s largest retail giants, with outlets located worldwide.
With this worldwide expansion, there has been lots of speculation on whether or not Walmart is owned by China. After some digging, here is what I discovered!
Key Takeaways
Is Walmart Owned by China In 2022?
Walmart is not owned by China as of 2022. Walmart’s founding family, the Waltons, currently owns Walmart, along with shareholders. They operate using family-owned shares such as Walton Enterprises LLC and Walton Family Holdings Trust. Other American investors such as Vanguard Group own 5% in shares.
So who does own Walmart? Read on for all you need to know!
Can You Find Walmart in China?
Yes, Walmart stores have been operating in China since 1996. You’ll find Walmart HyperMarkets, Sam’s Club, and Walmart Supermarkets in locations such as Beijing and Shenzhen.
There are now 400 retail units in 180 cities nationwide, with over 95% of the merchandise sold in Chinese stores are locally sourced.
Recently, Walmart has integrated Walmart and Sam’s into the Chinese e-commerce industry with approximately 20 Walmart distribution stations across China.
What Percentage of Walmart Products are Made in China?
70-80% of Walmart’s suppliers are located throughout China; however, U.S stores source food locally (including chicken and red meat).
Additionally, Walmart has established partnerships with over 7000 suppliers in China, mainly for technology, homewares, and clothing items.
Who Owns Walmart?
The Walton family currently owns Walmart after its founding as Walmart Discount City by Sam Walton in 1962, Bentonville, Arkansas.
Since then, Walton family members have taken active positions in maintaining and growing Walmart.
Today, Walton possesses 50% of overall shares through Walton Enterprises LLC and the Walton Family Holdings Trust.
Walton Enterprises LLC is a private holding company that owns approximately 50% of the total shares; this is where the original Walton family manages its ownership interests in Walmart.
Walton Family Holdings Trust was created to maintain a balance between family and non-family ownership.
American-based investor Vanguard Group Inc represents approximately 5% of Walmart.
Additionally, Walmart is a public traded company also invested in by companies such as State Street Global Advisors, Black Rock Fund Advisors, and Geode Capital Management LLC.
Walton Enterprises LLC and Walton Family Holdings Trust are the only investors who own over 10% of Walmart.
To learn more about Walmart, you can also see my posts on Walmart facts, Walmarts competitive advantages, whether or not Walmart is a franchise, why Walmart failed to take off in Germany, and if Walmart owns Costco.
Conclusion: Is Walmart Owned by China?
No, China does not own Walmart. Walmart is founded and owned by the Walton family. They hold 50% of total shares through Walton Enterprises LLC and Walton Family Holdings Trust. Other top investors are American-based companies, including Vanguard Group Inc.