Walmart Raises Minimum Wage from $12 to $14

On Tuesday, America’s largest retailer announced its minimum wage from $12 to $14 an hour amid efforts to retain store and warehouse workers.

According to CNN, “In many areas of the country, particularly southern states that have not adopted higher wage laws, Walmart’s starting wage often serves as the local minimum wage.” The company’s decision is believed to influence the service industry as a whole.

Walmart’s president and CEO, John Furner, explained in a letter to employees, “At Walmart, we know our people make the difference. That’s never been more true than today – your talent and dedication to your customers is helping them live better lives every day,” he said. “And as you continue to focus on your customers, we’re focused on investing in you – our store associates – through higher wages and new opportunities to gain the skills to serve tomorrow’s customers and grow a career with Walmart.”

Even though mass layoffs have swept through the nation at various companies, Walmart included, the need for service workers is still dire. CNN reported that Walmart currently has 30,000 store jobs listed on the company website.