AGRIBUSINESS EXAMINER - Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer, has benefited from more than $1 billion in economic development subsidies from state and local governments across the United States, according to a new study by Good Jobs First. "Wal-Mart presents itself as an entrepreneurial success story, yet it has made extensive use of tax breaks, free land, cash grants and other forms of public assistance," said Philip Mattera, research director of Good Jobs First and principal author of the study.
The study found more than 240 cases in which the construction of new Wal-Mart facilities was assisted by public resources. In addition to 160 retail outlets, the study found subsidies at 84 of Wal-Mart's distribution centers, representing more than 90 percent of the network of huge warehouses the company has built to facilitate its rapid expansion.
Wal-Mart subsidy deals were found in 35 states, with the largest number in California, Illinois, Missouri, Texas and Mississippi. In total dollar terms, Louisiana, Florida and New York also ranked high. Although comparative data are not available, the study says it is likely that Wal-Mart, given the extent of its operations, receives state and local subsidies from more jurisdictions than any other corporation in the United States.
The types of subsidies given to Wal-Mart projects included the following:EDITED BY ADMIN: COPYRIGHT
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