Walmart Invests in Toronto Through New Global Tech Hub

On March 15, 2022, Walmart announced plans to make Toronto, along with Atlanta, Georgia, one of its two new global tech hubs. Walmart cited Toronto’s growing tech presence, connection to Walmart and broad and diverse talent pool as reasons for choosing the city for a new tech hub. The Toronto tech hub is expected to initially employ 45 full-time workers in the fields of software development, technical program management and product management with plans to further employ hundreds of additional people over time.

In relation to the announcement, Nicolai Salcedo, Chief Technology and Data Officer of Walmart Canada stated that “Canada has a dynamic and world leading tech community powered by talented people and innovation that is recognized on a global scale” and that it is “inspiring to see Walmart recognize the Canadian tech community and invest in further developing local talent with new opportunities that will be brought through this new tech hub.” Mayor of Toronto John Tory also commented, stating that “Walmart’s decision to make Toronto the home of one of its larger tech hubs with hundreds of jobs to come is another vote of confidence in our city’s thriving tech sector.”

The announcement of the new Toronto tech hub is in furtherance to Walmart Canada’s $3.5 billion investment in 2020 to make the online and in-store shopping experience simpler, faster and more convenient for Walmart Canada customers. The Toronto expansion is also part of Walmart Global Tech’s plan to hire more than 5,000 employees globally in the fiscal year.