Walmart is embracing artificial intelligence to streamline operations and boost efficiency. But unlike many automation-driven transitions that lead to layoffs, the retail giant has pledged to maintain its 1.6 million-strong US workforce over the next two to five years. Instead of replacing employees, Walmart plans to transform jobs, shifting workers into higher-paying, more technical roles.
Bigger Business, Same Headcount
Walmart US CEO John Furner told Fortune that the company intends to operate a larger business without adding more employees. AI will absorb repetitive tasks, allowing workers to focus on more complex responsibilities. While some jobs may disappear, new ones are expected to emerge within Walmart. The emphasis is on job transformation, not displacement.
Careers in Transition
Frontline employees are already seeing these changes. For example, Maurice, a Walmart veteran who began loading trucks two decades ago, now manages a team of bot technicians handling automated systems. Such career transitions highlight how AI adoption can extend careers and improve pay, with lower attrition rates than traditional retail jobs.
Training for the AI Era
To prepare workers, Walmart has partnered with OpenAI to launch a certification program that teaches employees to use AI tools for career growth. AI is already reducing managerial workload, with task lists that once took 30–45 minutes now generated instantly. The company also uses AI to guide merchants and marketplace sellers on inventory and store placement, accelerating data-driven decisions.
Backed by Strong Financials
Walmart’s approach is supported by solid financial performance. US revenue grew 4.7% last year to $462.42 billion, and the company expects up to 4.75% growth this fiscal year. This stability enables Walmart to invest in retraining and upskilling rather than cutting jobs for cost savings.
A Model for US Jobs
By committing to workforce stability, Walmart is setting a precedent in an economy unsettled by automation. Its strategy suggests that AI adoption can coexist with job security if companies invest in employee transformation. Whether other employers follow this model remains uncertain, but Walmart’s approach could shape the broader debate on the future of work in an AI-driven era.
