Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer, said it plans to hire more than 100,000 veterans in the United States over the next five years, a move supported by First Lady Michelle Obama.
Most of the veterans will be placed in the company's stores and clubs, and some will be employed in distribution centers.
The retailer will start issuing job offers to veterans during Memorial Day in May. The offers will be given to any honorably discharged veteran within his or her first 12 months off active duty.
Walmart U.S. CEO Bill Simon is reportedly planning to give more details in his speech today (Jan. 15) at the National Retail Federation conference in New York.
According to a Wal-Mart statement, the retailer spoke with the White House about the hiring commitment and First Lady Michelle Obama's team had expressed an interest in working with Wal-Mart on this issue.
Walmart U.S. is largest private employer in the United States, with about 1.3 million employees.
Reuters and the New York Times have reported on this initiative.