Walmart Canada announces plan to build a new store in Kemptville

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 20 /CNW/ - Walmart Canada announced today the construction of a new Walmart store in Kemptville, Ontario. The store is expected to be completed in early 2011 as part of the "Kemptville Colonnade" and retail centre currently developing at the interchange of Highways 43 and 416.

"Investing in a new store is a significant financial commitment for Walmart Canada , said Ken Farrell , Vice President of Store Development for Walmart Canada . "We do a considerable amount of research before we enter a market, including a review of the needs of the local community. We believe the community around Kemptville is vital and strong, and we look forward to being a part of it."

The construction of the new Walmart store is expected to create over 200 construction trade jobs. Once the store is built, Walmart is expected to hire up to 175 new associates.

Walmart Supercentres offer the general merchandise including fashion, electronics, housewares, toys, sporting goods, hardware, pharmacy services and more, with the addition of a full grocery component, including fresh produce, meat, baked goods and meals to go.

"I believe the decision to build the Walmart store in Kemptville speaks to the strength of the local economy," says Kemptville Mayor Bill Gooch . "The Walmart store will make a positive contribution to the overall North Grenville economy and will create jobs and opportunities for local service providers and suppliers."

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates a growing chain of 314 stores, serving more than one million Canadians each day. With more than 82,000 associates, the company is Canada's third-largest employer. In 2009, Walmart Canada's corporate culture was ranked among the 10 most admired corporate cultures in Canada by Waterstone Human Capital Inc. Walmart Canada is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations and products. The company has three long-term environmental goals: to operate a zero-waste business; to operate with 100% renewable energy; and to sell products that sustain resources and the environment.

For further information: Susan Schutta, Corporate Affairs, Walmart Canada, [phone], ext. 8012