Walmart supermarket, one of the most popular in the United States, is facing a new boycott that threatens its business. This time, the protest is related to the tariff rates implemented by Donald Trump, which have caused an increase in prices. Consumers, tired of paying more for the same products, have started to organize to express their discontent and put pressure on the company.
The root of the conflict: tariffs and rising prices
The main reason behind this boycott is the unjustified increase in prices at Walmart. According to reports, Doug McMillon, the chain's CEO, acknowledged that the tariffs pushed by Trump make it difficult to keep prices low. Although the government reduced some import rates, Walmart can't fully absorb the additional costs.
This increase mainly affects lower-income sectors, which has caused growing discontent among customers. During this year, visits to Walmart stores have decreased: 5.9% in February and 4% in March, although April showed a 4.5% rebound related to Easter. However, sales of electronics and home goods continue to decline.
Walmart keeps winning, but tension grows
Despite the drop in visits and sales, Walmart reported significant profits. In the first quarter of 2025, its operating income in the United States reached $5.7 billion, a 7% increase compared to the same period the previous year. This paradox between profits and boycott reflects the complexity of the current scenario.
The pressure on Walmart has increased and now extends beyond the main supermarket. The People’s Union USA, the group leading this protest, has called for a boycott targeting not only Walmart but also all its subsidiaries: Sam’s Club, Walmart+, and Walmart Pharmacy.
The boycott and warnings to Walmart
The goal of the boycott is to curb consumption as a form of protest and expose what they consider "corrupt and abusive practices" that affect the economy of all ordinary citizens. The founder of the group, John Schwarz, warned that if the companies don't change their policies, the boycotts will be "stronger and longer" after July 4.
So far, the organization has participated in boycotts against companies such as Amazon and General Mills. In addition, they warned that if changes don't occur, other large companies such as Target and McDonald’s could be next to face similar protests.