Wal-Mart: We’re not Gonna Take It

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/13/2005 12:08:00 PM

ATLANTA — Wal-Mart has gone on the offensive against what the company calls unfair allegations regarding its treatment of employees and effect on communities by taking out a full-page ad published in more than 100 newspapers.

Wal-Mart CEO H. Lee Scott said it was time for the public to hear the "unfiltered truth" about Wal-Mart, acknowledging at the same time that the ad blitz was an “unusual approach.”

"There are a lot of 'urban legends' going around these days about Wal-Mart, but facts are facts," Scott said. "Wal-Mart is good for Atlanta-area consumers, good for communities and good for the economy.

"For too long, others have had free rein to say things about our company that just aren't true," Scott continued. "Our associates are tired of it, and we've decided it's time to draw our own line in the sand.

"We understand that, as one of the most visible corporations in the world, we will be a target for criticism. When it is valid, we try to learn from it and become a better company," Scott said. "But we have made a commitment to our associates, customers and suppliers that when false allegations are made about Wal-Mart, we will actively correct the record. That's what this day is all about."

As part of the campaign, Wal-Mart has also launched a Web site, www.walmartfacts.com.