In rare move, Walmart to close on Thanksgiving
Walmart stores will be closed this Thanksgiving, the retailer announced Tuesday.
In a memo to employees, Walmart U.S. president and CEO John Furner also announced another bonus for employees.
Thanksgiving is traditionally is the start of the holiday shopping season and Black Friday weekend.
“We know holiday shopping will be different this year, and we will be managing sales events differently,” Furner wrote.
Walmart stores haven’t closed on Thanksgiving since the late 1980s, the company told USA TODAY. Christmas is the only day each year most Walmart locations close.
Furner said the employee who suggested the idea of closing for Thanksgiving was Kevin Carlyle, who works at a store in Round Rock, Texas.
“Our best ideas come from our associates, and this year we have decided to close our stores on Thanksgiving Day – November 26.”
“We know it’s been a trying year, and you’ve stepped up,” Furner added. “We want you to enjoy the day at home with your loved ones.”
Sam’s Club locations traditionally close on the holiday, but most Walmart stores have kicked off Black Friday sales on Thanksgiving.
Since March, Walmart has been operating with reduced hours because of the coronavirus pandemic. Most stores are open from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily.
Walmart and Sam’s Club have made other changes, including limiting the number of shoppers in stores. On Monday, both started requiring all shoppers to wear masks.
Third bonus for employees
Walmart and Sam’s Club are giving employees another bonus worth about $428 million, the company said Tuesday.
This is the third bonus the company has given workers due to the coronavirus pandemic, “totaling $1.1 billion in bonuses so far this year, in addition to the regular incentive it provides to frontline associates on a quarterly basis.”
“You’ve been working at an incredible pace, you’ve solved problems, and you’ve set an amazing example for others,” Furner wrote in the employee memo. “To further appreciate the work that’s being done throughout our stores and supply chain, we’re pleased to announce another special cash bonus for the summer.”
The bonus is $300 for full-time hourly associates and drivers and $150 for part-time hourly and temporary associates who work in stores, clubs, supply chain and offices who are employed as of July 31. The bonuses will be included in Aug. 20 paychecks.