Walmart, one of the world's largest companies by market capitalization and revenue, was founded in 1962 by Sam Walton.
Walton opened the first Wal-Mart Discount City store in Rogers, Arkansas, on July 2, 1962. His strategy emphasized low prices, high sales volume, and efficient distribution, initially focusing on smaller towns that were often overlooked by major retail chains.
The company's early growth relied on standardized store operations and a distribution network designed to keep shelves supplied at low cost. Walmart incorporated in 1969 and later became the largest retailer in the United States and one of the world's largest businesses by sales.
Walmart's name is often written in different forms across its history. The company was originally styled Wal-Mart, later adopted Walmart, and operates under different banners in several countries. Sam Walton should not be confused with James Cash Penney, the founder of the separate JCPenney chain.