Walmart CEO Discusses AI’s Impact on Jobs
Doug McMillon, the CEO of Walmart, has expressed concerns about the widespread effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on employment, stating that it “literally changes every job.” He shared these insights during a meeting with executives at the company’s headquarters in Bentonville, where the focus was on how retail giants are increasingly automating roles while maintaining current workforce sizes over the next few years.
McMillon noted that while some positions might remain unaffected, he wasn’t necessarily thinking about those instances when he spoke about AI’s potential to eliminate certain jobs. This observation aligns with broader concerns raised by executives from major corporations like Ford and JPMorgan Chase regarding the displacement of workers due to AI.
The report highlights that Walmart’s leadership is particularly focused on the implications of AI, frequently bringing it up in high-level discussions. They are currently monitoring job trends within the organization—identifying which positions are diminishing, growing, or holding steady—to better prepare employees for the changes brought on by AI.
“Our goal is to create an opportunity for everyone to reach the other side,” McMillon remarked, emphasizing the company’s commitment to navigate this transformation.
Walmart, which employs around 2.1 million people globally, anticipates its workforce will remain stable in size over the next three years, even as revenues increase. However, there will be considerable shifts in the types of roles available. Donna Morris, Walmart’s chief human resources officer, indicated that the specifics of this new workforce mix are still being assessed.
Walmart has begun leveraging AI chatbots, referred to as “agents,” that assist customers, suppliers, and employees with inquiries. Despite these advancements, McMillon noted that not all AI innovations would be suitable for Walmart, mentioning that various companies have proposed humanoid robots, but the focus remains on prioritizing human roles.
Additionally, Walmart is implementing AI to enhance parts of its supply chain and to gather data on product trends. In a recent strategic move, the company hired Daniel Danker, previously with Instacart, to oversee these AI initiatives, collaborating with Morris to track how the workforce evolves.
Executives noted that AI has already been utilized to automate several warehouse operations, leading to job reductions. There are plans to extend automation to certain store tasks as well.
Recently, Walmart established a “builder agent” position, with the goal of developing tools aimed at improving AI functionalities. Alongside these technological innovations, the company also plans to hire additional staff in customer-facing roles, such as couriers and bakery positions, while also expanding the number of in-store maintenance technicians and truck drivers.
McMillon highlighted that the transition regarding AI-related changes will be gradual, acknowledging that while some customer service roles are becoming increasingly reliant on AI, other adjustments will require more time to implement.
