Wal-Mart's Poor Public Image Contributes to Disappointing Second-Quarter Profit
 

August 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Today, Wal-Mart reported a disappointing second-quarter profit that fell short of expectations, and lowered its earnings forecast, causing the stock to fall the most in five years.

In response, Laura Tatum, spokeswoman for WakeUpWalMart.com, issued the following statement:

"Once again, it is clear that Wal-Mart's public image woes pose a serious threat to the companys success.

Wal-Mart and CEO Lee Scott thought the American people wouldnt listen to the truth about Wal-Marts immoral business practices. Lee Scott was wrong. Even Wal-Marts former advertising agency, GSD&M, warned in an internal memo, leaked this year, that reputation was the #1 challenge facing the company.

On issue after issue, from health care to child labor, Wal-Mart has proven itself to be out-of-step with the American people.

As Americas largest private employer, Wal-Marts stubborn refusal to change its irresponsible business practices hurts its workers, their families, our nation… and Wal-Marts own profits.

Wal-Mart is now at a serious crossroads. Wal-Mart can choose to continue down a path of empty publicity stunts that further alienate the American public and result in sluggish profits. Or, Wal-Mart can choose to embrace a new path where the company makes substantive changes and becomes a responsible employer that provides affordable health care, pays a living wage, and protects American jobs.

For Wal-Mart's sake, and the sake of our country, Wal-Mart must wake up and change into a responsible and moral employer."