24-hour closure of all Walmart stores in the United States

Walmart, the giant retailer, will close more than 4,600 stores across the United States. While that may sound like alarming news, this massive 24-hour shutdown is not due to a digital meltdown or bankruptcy, but a halt in business hours due to Thanksgiving.

Like other major retailers, Walmart will give both their workforce and customers a much-deserved respite and enjoy the holiday. While it has dutifully opened on November 28 for many decades, it’s been a few years since the retailer decided to balance family and work life in favor of the later.

Since 2020, Walmart has made it a tradition to close its stores on Thanksgiving. Before then, stores stayed open on the holidays to start Black Friday sales early.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart introduced this change to give employees a well-deserved break and the chance to celebrate Thanksgiving with their families. The company has maintained this policy ever since, emphasizing the value of employee well-being.

Due to Walmart’s updated policy, 1.6 million employees can now spend Thanksgiving at home. On that day, all 4,600+ Walmart stores across the United States will remain closed.

According to John Furner, Walmart US CEO, the idea originally came from a Texas employee who suggested it during the pandemic.

Walmart’s Thanksgiving Specials

Thanksgiving is almost here and it’s time to start planning the ultimate feast! Whether you’re hosting this year—or every year—Walmart is here to help make it stress-free and special.

With food prices on the rise, Walmart is stepping up to keep your Thanksgiving traditions intact. Introduction Thanksgiving meal deals—a perfectly curated shopping cart that brings together everything you need for a festive holiday dinner at a price that fits your budget. Celebrate one of America’s favorite holidays with great food and great savings!

Walmart’s “inflation-free” meal plan has everything you need for a full Thanksgiving (or Christmas dinner) for eight, all for as little as $7 per serving. person.

This 29-item grocery pack costs a total of just $52, averaging about $1.79 each. With a 16-pound turkey and all the trimmings, right down to dessert, Walmart’s meal kits make celebrating the holidays affordable and stress-free. It’s an offer that’s hard to miss!

The best part? If you’re hosting more than eight guests, you can simply grab more sets. It’s a perfect solution for anyone struggling with portion planning for a large crowd. With Walmart’s Meal Dealyou want to make sure everyone leaves full – without getting stuck eating leftover turkey for two weeks.

Walmart’s 2024 Thanksgiving meal deals are available from October 14th through December 24th, making it easy and affordable to prepare for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Say goodbye to the stress of last-minute shopping and complicated menu planning. With Walmart, creating the perfect holiday party has never been easier.

Stores open on Thanksgiving

Forgot the pumpkin filling or need a last minute ingredient on November 28th? Don’t worry, some shops will still be open, although most have limited opening hours. Here’s a list of places to shop on Thanksgiving:

• Whole Foods: Open for your Thanksgiving needs, but hours will vary by location.
• Albertsons: Many locations will be open from 06.00 to at least 3 p.m., although exact opening hours may vary.
• Food Lion: Selected stores will be open for a limited time.
• Kroger: Most locations will be open, but expect reduced hours.
• Ralphs: Open from 06.00 to 22.00, which gives you plenty of time to fill up.

Plan ahead and check your local store’s opening hours before you head out!

Walmart’s new accessibility and efficiency upgrades

In addition to its Thanksgiving initiatives, Walmart has made permanent changes to improve accessibility and streamline shopping.

This year, it introduced parcel stations in several locations, including some in New York state. These stations act as mini-post offices, allowing customers to send and receive parcels, improving delivery logistics and speed.