In response to the earthquake in Chile on Saturday 27 February, Walmart has today (Tuesday 2 March) announced in a press release an initial donation of US$1m towards emergency relief efforts throughout the country.
“With the impact of this earthquake on our own communities, customers, associates and suppliers, we wanted to reach out with assistance as soon as possible,” said Eduardo Solórzano, president and CEO of Walmart Latin America, and vice-chairman of D&S, Walmart’s retail operation in Chile.
“Our operations in Chile are actively engaged in providing assistance on the ground, and we’re continuing to monitor the situation and look for additional ways that we can help with relief efforts.”
Walmart acquired D&S, Chile’s leading food retailer, in January 2009. D&S currently has more than 34,000 associates and operates 255 stores throughout the country.
“Giving back to our communities, especially in a time of need, is part of our culture at Walmart,” added Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart International. “A crisis only reinforces that commitment, and our thoughts are with those affected by this disaster.”
Walmart said it has long been recognised as a corporate leader around the globe in the area of disaster relief.
Most recently, the company supported earthquake relief efforts in Haiti, with cash and in-kind donations currently at more than US$1m.
In addition, the retailer said its associates and customers globally have contributed more than US$3m to date towards the Haiti relief effort.
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