Walmart was founded by Sam Walton.
Sam Walton opened the first Walmart store in Rogers, Arkansas, on July 2, 1962. His business strategy emphasized low prices, high sales volume, and efficient distribution, helping the chain expand beyond its original small-town retail base.
Walton had already operated variety stores before creating Walmart. The company's first name was Wal-Mart Discount City, and the business was incorporated as Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. in 1969. It adopted the name Walmart Inc. in 2018.
Walmart is often confused with Sam's Club, which Walton also founded. Sam's Club began in 1983 as a membership warehouse business, while Walmart operates general merchandise and grocery stores. Walton's retail principles helped Walmart become one of the largest companies in the world by revenue and market value.