• Doug McMillon announces retirement from Walmart after over a decade
• John Furner, current CEO of Walmart U.S., will succeed him on February 1, 2026
• Walmart faces economic challenges but remains a strong player in retail and e-commerce
• McMillon's tenure saw significant changes, including a focus on employee welfare and technology investments
• Shares dropped following the announcement but are expected to recover as Walmart maintains strong performance

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon will retire from his position early next year after leading the company for over a decade. John Furner, currently the president and CEO of Walmart U.S., has been named as McMillon's successor, effective February 1, 2026. McMillon will stay with the company in an advisory role until 2027, marking a significant leadership transition as the retail landscape faces challenges such as tariffs and shifting consumer sentiments, according to Reuters and BBC.

John Furner, who started his career as an associate in 1993, has been credited for enhancing Walmart’s U.S. operations and will take over during a period when the company has solidified its position as a competitive player in e-commerce. Under McMillon's leadership, Walmart transformed into a retail giant with a major online presence while also focusing on employee well-being, including wage increases and expanded parental leave, which he emphasized throughout his tenure. This strategic shift is highlighted by the substantial rise in Walmart's stock value, from approximately $25 per share to over $102 during McMillon's time as CEO, according to India Times and Los Angeles Times.

McMillon, who first began working for Walmart in 1984 as a summer associate, successfully navigated the company through various challenges, including retail competition and economic fluctuations. His leadership included a notable focus on embracing technology, such as AI and robotics, consolidating Walmart's competitive edge against other giants like Amazon. Although his tenure had notable successes, such as the successful launch of Walmart+, there were also setbacks, notably the acquisition of Jet.com, which did not meet profitability expectations, according to India Times and Los Angeles Times.

During McMillon's decade-long leadership, Walmart reinforced its reputation through significant investments in employee relations and corporate responsibility. This included ceasing the sale of certain types of ammunition following mass shootings and publicly advocating for employee-centric programs. With Furner at the helm, Walmart is expected to continue prioritizing digital integration and operational excellence, fostering a smooth transition as McMillon completes his tenure, according to BBC and Reuters.