The Wal-Mart Way

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Since Sam Walton's death in 1992, Wal-Mart has evolved from the largest retailer to the top company on the Fortune 500 list. Don Soderquist, who served as senior vice chairman during this period, was instrumental in that success. Sam Walton once expressed his long-standing desire to hire Soderquist, recognizing his potential as a great chief operating officer when the company needed him most. Soderquist oversaw vital support divisions, including real estate, human resources, and logistics, while staying true to his Christian values and Wal-Mart's unique management style. Discount Store News noted that Soderquist embodied the company's cultural principles more than any other executive since Walton. In his account, Soderquist reveals how he helped transform Wal-Mart from a $43 billion company to one surpassing $200 billion. While many books discuss Wal-Mart's achievements, few feature insights from those directly involved. The company's rise was not solely due to "Everyday Low Prices" or effective distribution; it was deeply rooted in core values based on Judeo-Christian principles, upheld by leaders like Soderquist, which were fundamental to Wal-Mart's enduring success.