Ontario Construction News staff writer
Walmart has recently announced plans to build new global tech hubs in Toronto and Atlanta, Georgia. The expansion is part of Walmart Global Tech’s plan to hire more than 5,000 associates globally this fiscal year.
Walmart Canada and Condor Properties broke ground on a new state-of-the-art distribution centre in Vaughan in August 2020 – a 550,000 sq. ft. distribution centre at 11110 Jane Street at Teston Road.
The Toronto hub will be one of the company’s largest facilities, with hundreds of new jobs over time. The initial hiring phase is expected to include 45 full-time roles in software development, technical program management and product management.
“The cutting-edge technology we build for 230 million customers around the world is fueled by our greatest asset-our people,” said Suresh Kumar, Walmart’s EVP, chief technology officer and chief development officer. “We are excited to join the vibrant and diverse tech communities in Toronto and Atlanta. Work from these new hubs will impact millions of lives and transform the future of retail.”
The launch of a technology hub is part of Walmart’s $3.5 billion investment to make the online and in-store experience “simpler, faster and more convenient.”
“Canada has a dynamic and world leading tech community powered by talented people and innovation that is recognized on a global scale,” said Nicolai Salcedo, chief technology and data officer, Walmart Canada. “It’s 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.”
“Walmart’s decision to make Toronto the home of one of its larger tech hubs . . . is another vote of confidence in our city’s thriving tech sector,” said Toronto Mayor John Tory. “I am committed to supporting our technology sector and continuing to encourage companies to locate here and hire here.”
Walmart Global Tech will now have 17 technology hubs around the world including Seattle, WA and Chennai, India that launched last year.