Image: Walmart
Walmart’s presence in Washington goes beyond its stores. Along with providing goods and services across the state, the company has made investments that support jobs, keep supply chains moving and build strong connections with local farmers.
A key part of this work is the grocery distribution center, located in Grandview Washington, which has been in operation since the early 2000s. The facility helps ensure families in Washington and nearby states have steady access to fresh and affordable food. Many of the employees who started there when the center opened are still part of the team today, with several moving into leadership and management roles over time.
Walmart invited WR and state legislators to tour the distribution center. The visit offered a clear look at how the operation works day to day and the scale of what it takes to move products to stores and customers across the region.
Walmart also plays a role in supporting local agriculture through partnerships with Washington farmers and growers. A walk through the produce section in many Walmart stores reveals familiar local names on the packaging of fruits and vegetables.
One example is Sterino Farms, a grower based in Puyallup that has been part of Washington agriculture for nearly a century. Sterino produce like berries, cabbage and celery can be found in many Walmart stores, connecting shoppers to food grown close to home.
WR visited Sterino Farms during the celery harvest. From cutting in the field to bagging and boxing for distribution, the tour offered a firsthand look at the work behind the produce customers see on store shelves. Sterino is one of many farms across the state that Walmart works with to bring local products to communities.
Walmart’s contributions to Washington extend well beyond its stores and distribution centers. The company employs over 23,000 associates statewide, providing meaningful jobs and opportunities for advancement. Walmart also contributes significantly to state and local revenues, with $372 million in taxes collected from customers and remitted to the state, and $85.1 million paid directly by Walmart to state and local governments.
Through these investments, as well as continued partnerships with local businesses, farmers, and community organizations, Walmart underscores its commitment to being a long-term partner in Washington’s economic and community life.
To learn more about Walmart’s impact in Washington, click here.
