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Raising Concerns
Outside Employment and Business Interests Financial Investments Gifts & Entertainment Associate Relationships Supplier Relationships
Build Trust with Our Associates
Create a Safe Place to Work and Shop Discrimination and Harassment Sexual Harassment Wage and Hour Authority to Work
Build Trust with Our Customers
Build Trust in Our Business
Frequently Asked Questions
An ethics concern is one that involves alleged behaviors or business practices that are inconsistent with one or more of the sections of the Code of Conduct, such as sexual harassment, insider trading, and theft. If you see, suspect, or are told about an activity that violates our Code, compliance policies, Walmart’s Standards for Suppliers, or the law, you must report it to either your manager, People Lead, Ethics & Compliance, or Legal so that the concern can be reviewed and handled appropriately.
All reports to Ethics & Compliance are treated as confidentially as possible. It helps with follow-up if individuals identify themselves. However, if someone is not comfortable identifying themselves, they can make an anonymous report to the Ethics Helpline to the extent allowed by law.
Certain matters must be immediately reported directly to Ethics & Compliance:
- Bribery (including any suspected violation of our Anti-Corruption Policy)
- A company officer or direct report to any company CEO potentially violating the Code
- Falsifying financial records or interfering with our internal controls on financial reporting
Global or local policies may indicate additional matters that must be reported directly to Ethics & Compliance.
Raising Concerns
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Conflicts of Interest
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Build Trust with Our Associates
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Build Trust with Our Customers
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Build Trust in Our Business
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Raising Concerns
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Walmart takes all reported concerns or allegations seriously.
We confidentially review each ethics allegation to determine if any law, policy or the Code of Conduct has been violated and assign for investigation where appropriate. If an investigation is warranted, Global Ethics and Compliance is committed to protecting the integrity of these investigations. This includes protecting individuals who report the concern or allegation, as well as any witnesses, from being harassed, intimidated, or retaliated against. Additionally, we strive to keep evidence from being destroyed, verifying testimony provided, and identifying and addressing root causes.
We may reasonably impose a requirement that witnesses maintain the investigation and their role in the investigation in the strictest confidence. In such cases, individuals must maintain confidentiality and not discuss the investigation with others during the course of the investigation. Global Ethics & Compliance does not generally disclose investigation details, but you will be informed of the status of the investigation.
Conflicts of Interest
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Recognize and Avoid Conflicts of Interest
Fair and objective decisions build trust with our associates, customers, and third parties. When making business decisions, we put Walmart’s interests before personal interests. A conflict of interest occurs when personal interests interfere with, or may appear to interfere with, our work at Walmart. While we can’t list every circ*mstance, it’s important to know and avoid the common situations that could create a conflict or the perception of a conflict. Outside employment, financial investments, gifts and entertainment, and personal relationships are areas where conflicts can arise.
If you realize an activity or situation could influence or appear to influence your ability to make objective business decisions, let your manager, People Lead, or Ethics & Compliance know. They can help you take steps to avoid or resolve a conflict.
Build Trust with Our Associates
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Respect Each Other
Living our value of Respect for the Individual starts with valuing diversity and inclusion. We believe having associates with different backgrounds, styles, experiences, identities, and opinions makes us a better company. Inclusion is an intentional act—it is investing time and energy to understand, support, and champion the uniqueness of individuals. Diversity and inclusion promote individual expression, creativity, innovation, and achievement—and help us better understand and serve our customers.
Work the Right Way
At Walmart, our associates are the key to our success. We pay people accurately for their work and hours. We respect human rights and prohibit the use of underage or forced labor anywhere we do business. We believe that when we take good care of one another, we will take good care of our customers and communities.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding our ability to work the right way or become aware of actions that violate our Global Labor & Employment Policy and Standards for Suppliers, please notify your manager, People Lead, or Ethics & Compliance.
Build Trust with Our Customers
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Build Trust in Our Business
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As a seasoned expert in business ethics and compliance, I have a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in navigating complex corporate governance structures and promoting ethical behavior within organizations. My expertise extends to various facets, including legal frameworks, corporate policies, and the practical implementation of ethical guidelines.
The article you've provided delves into the comprehensive approach that Walmart adopts to build trust in its business operations. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Raising Concerns:
- Walmart emphasizes the importance of reporting any ethics concerns promptly. This includes behaviors inconsistent with the Code of Conduct, compliance policies, and legal standards.
- Anonymity is allowed for those uncomfortable identifying themselves, ensuring a confidential reporting mechanism.
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Conflicts of Interest:
- Walmart recognizes the significance of fair and objective decision-making. Conflicts of interest are addressed, especially concerning personal interests that may interfere with the company's work.
- Areas prone to conflicts include outside employment, financial investments, gifts and entertainment, and personal relationships.
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Build Trust with Our Associates:
- Walmart promotes a culture of respect, valuing diversity and inclusion among associates.
- The importance of working in compliance with Global Labor & Employment Policy and Standards for Suppliers is highlighted.
- Creating a safe work environment, preventing discrimination and harassment, ensuring fair wages, and respecting human rights are key aspects.
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Build Trust with Our Customers:
- Ensuring the safety of products, protecting the environment, and delivering quality healthcare are highlighted as crucial to building trust with customers.
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Build Trust in Our Business:
- Walmart commits to fair competition, zero engagement in bribery, accurate record-keeping, adherence to international trade rules, prevention of money laundering and consumer fraud, and the responsible use of data and technology.
- Sourcing responsibly and protecting company property are integral to maintaining trust.
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Reporting Concerns Follow-Up Non-Retaliation:
- Walmart undertakes confidential reviews of ethics allegations to determine if any violation has occurred.
- The company is dedicated to protecting the integrity of investigations, ensuring individuals reporting concerns are shielded from harassment or retaliation.
This article showcases Walmart's commitment to maintaining high ethical standards across various aspects of its business, creating a transparent and accountable corporate culture. The outlined principles serve as a comprehensive framework for promoting integrity, trust, and compliance within the organization.
