Why Wal-Mart Wants to Take the Driver's Seat

摘要

Wat-Mart Stores, the world's largest retailer, has become famous-and at times infamous-for the power it wields over its suppliers. With its $408 billion in sales for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, the retailer has plenty of clout to persuade makers of goods sold in its big-box stores to create environmentally friendly packaging and exclusive product sizes, and to participate in joint advertising promotions.rnNow, Wal-Mart wants to be their chauffeur as well. The retailer aims to take over U.S. transportation servicesrnfrom suppliers in an effort to reduce the cost of hauling goods. Wal-Mart is contacting all manufacturers that provide products to its more than 4,000 U.S. stores and Sam's Club membership warehouse clubs, says Kelly Abney, Wal-Mart's vice-president of corporate transportation.