Walmart and ethics

Traditionally, Walmart has been known for its high ethical standards, not allowing outside companies to buy even a cup of coffee for merchandise buyers, to avoid any influence or conflict of interest.

Asda, like all Walmart companies, has an ethics code governing internal activities and also standards that apply to smaller and local suppliers as well as to international suppliers.

Now reports of a major bribery scandal involving Walmart's Mexican division are raising questions about the company's commitment to ethical actions. The corporate board of directors has authorised an investigation of allegations that its Walmart de Mexico chain paid bribes to expedite permits for new stores throughout Mexico, violating not only the firm's ethical code but also U.S. laws forbidding such illegal payments. U.S. officials are also examining the evidence to determine what happened. Were bribes paid to pave the way for expansion, higher turnover and increased market share in Mexico?