“Contradictions do not exist. Whenever you think you are facing a contradiction, check your premises. You will find that one of them is wrong.” -- Ayn Rand


Supplier diversity partner or controlling force?


Walmart included the following statement of praise from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) within its press release:


“Walmart has been an important partner, supporting our programs and initiatives, as well as continuously creating new ways for outstanding women-owned businesses to sell their products and services through Walmart- sometimes starting in just one store and then growing to become a major vendor throughout the chain,” said Linda J. Denny, president and CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).


“Walmart’s dedication to increased spending with women-led companies translates to growth, financial stability and increased employment in communities across the country,” concluded Denny.


However, Walmart did not mention that WBENC is not a women’s group – rather it is controlled (through its funding and its board of directors) by the world’s largest corporations – including Walmart. WBENC even refers to Walmart as a “partner” rather than accurately and transparently calling WalMart a prominent funder of the organization and influential member of its Fortune 500 controlled board of directors.


Walmart Diversity Spending FY2008


Only 2% spent with minority- and women-owned firms


Walmart spent $6B with minority- and women-owned firms in FY2008.


Walmart spent 98% with


non-women-owned firms


However, the total cost of goods sold within their stores was $286.5B.


Consequently, Walmart spent only 2% of their entire purchasing for costs of goods sold with minority- and women- owned firms.


Women-Led. Progress for All.


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