Walmart Plans to Maintain 2.1 Million Employees, Advance AI-Driven Workforce Restructuring

TradingKey - Walmart (WMT.US) CEO Doug McMillon recently stated: “AI will change every single job — that’s very clear. Maybe there are jobs in the world that AI won’t change, but I can’t think of any.”

This is one of the most direct assessments yet by a corporate leader on how artificial intelligence could reshape the future of work.

To navigate this transformation, Walmart plans to maintain its global workforce at approximately 2.1 million employees over the next three years, with no net hiring. Chief People Officer Donna Morris noted that while total headcount will remain stable, the composition of roles will undergo significant changes — some positions will be automated, while new, technology-driven roles will be created.

Currently, Walmart has widely deployed AI across supply chain management, product trend analysis, and customer service, including multiple internally developed “AI agent” chatbots. Warehouse automation has already led to reductions in certain roles, but the company has also introduced new positions such as “agent builders,” focused on developing and maintaining AI tools. Going forward, human labor will be increasingly directed toward high-touch service areas such as in-store bakeries, maintenance, and technical support.

McMillon emphasized that the company is committed to helping employees adapt to the new era, ensuring that “everyone can successfully transition.” He expects the shift to be gradual — for example, AI will first permeate customer service chat functions, while other roles evolve more slowly.

This strategy aligns with broader trends seen at companies like Ford, JPMorgan Chase, and Accenture, where firms are increasingly creating “AI heat maps” to assess job vulnerability and drive workforce reskilling initiatives.

While AI has sparked anxiety, executives generally believe historical precedent shows labor markets can adapt. Technological innovation may displace jobs in the short term, but ultimately creates new opportunities.Joe Baratta, Global Head of Private Equity at Blackstone, said:“I think the history of technological innovation is that people re-skill and find well-paying jobs in other parts of the economy.”