Here's where Walmart is expanding its store base

JANUARY 21, 2016 | BY GINA ACOSTA

On the heels of announcing it would close more than 150 stores in the United States, Walmart says it will open 15 supercenters this month in Canada.

These grand openings bring Walmart Canada's total store count to 400 stores, including 312 supercenters and 88 discount stores. The company says its 15 supercenter projects represent an investment of more than $100 million and have generated approximately 700 new store jobs and 1,450 construction and trade jobs in that nation.

"We're thrilled to open our 400th location in Canada this month, as well as our 300th supercenter," said Preyash Thakrar, senior vice president, strategy and real estate. "These supercenters will provide even more Canadian communities with affordable access to quality fresh groceries and one-stop shopping, while also saving them money."

Earlier this month Walmart announced that it would close 270 stores in the United States and abroad. None of those planned closures included stores in Canada.

Walmart supercenters in Canada offer up to 120,000 products, including a full complement of groceries --fresh produce, bakery goods, deli, meat and dairy products and organic selection as well as apparel, home decor and electronics. They also offer specialty services including pharmacies, garden centers and medical clinics.

"Walmart's supercenters provide unparalleled access to a one-stop shopping experience," added Thakrar. "Our supercenters deliver low prices everyday on the thousands of items Canadians want, especially quality, affordable fresh food for their families."

Walmart supports families in need and has one of the strongest community giving programs in Canada. To celebrate the grand openings, the stores will make donation to local organizations and will build on these donations throughout the year.

Grand opening festivities are planned for each official opening. Each store will host a party the following weekend. Customers can enjoy face-painting, live music, and samples.

Walmart serves more than 1.2 million customers each day in Canada, and its online store, walmart.ca, is visited by over 450,000 Canadians daily.