Walmart taking steps to help foodservice suppliers

March, 27, 2020, Toronto, Ont. – Walmart Canada is supporting small Canadian suppliers, service providers and tenants through the difficult time caused by COVID-19.

“Walmart Canada works with companies from around the world, but we’re especially proud of our relationship with thousands of Canadian small businesses which supply us with vital goods and services,” the company states. “From British Columbia to Newfoundland and everywhere in-between, we are happy to partner with small farms, fixture vendors, waste collection companies, food processors and many others.

“During this uncertain time, Walmart Canada is committed to helping our valued small suppliers and service providers – businesses that create thousands of jobs across the country.”

The company states it has decided to accelerate payments to its small Canadian suppliers and service providers to get money into their hands and back into the Canadian economy.

Starting next week, the company will begin reaching out to its small suppliers and service providers and get payments to them as rapidly as it can – ideally within 14 days.

The company is putting the measure into place for the next two months.

In addition to small suppliers and service providers, Walmart also has a large portfolio of small business tenants in its stores, including foodservice providers, hair salons and nail spas. To help them through the crisis, the company will be forgiving rent payments for tenants for the next two months.

“To our valued small suppliers, service providers and licensees, Walmart Canada wants to help you get through this crisis and we look forward to continuing to work with you once the crisis is over,” the company states.