Walmart: Your One Stop Shop

It’s that time of year again when end-of-year sales, clearance discounts, and unbeatable price tags seem to cover every corner of the store. For many, Walmart has become the go-to destination for everything from groceries and gifts to tech and home essentials. But while we’re all familiar with their famous “Rollback” deals, let’s take a step back and consider how the money we spend is being used by these companies.

Many people aren’t aware, but in conjunction with other large companies like Microsoft and Cisco Systems, Walmart helped Team8 raise over $500 million USD to fund local startups in Israel. Walmart has also pledged $1 million USD amid the Hamas October 7th attack, and since then hasn’t mentioned anything for the Palestinians undergoing genocide.

• Walmart revenues over $642 billion USD in 2024

• Walmart revenues over $605 billion USD in 2023

UNIQLO: Simplified Clothing Solutions

We can’t cover all of Walmart’s alternatives in one go, so let’s focus on clothing first. Whenever possible, we encourage checking out your local malls and exploring non-franchised stores—you’ll often come across quality clothing at great prices. But if you’re looking for a reliable option, UNIQLO is worth a visit. This Japanese fast-fashion brand offers a wide variety of styles, affordable pricing, and even onsite tailoring services. Plus, UNIQLO currently maintains a neutral stance politically, making it a practical and versatile choice for your wardrobe needs.

UNIQLO has a ethical side as well, on a global front have also announced they are donating 1 million pieces of clothing to refugees and communities around the world. This is included in Canada, where they provide ongoing support to over 4 charities around Canada in Ontario, B.C., Alberta, and Quebec, by donating over 30,000 units of their signature “HEATTECH” clothing.

• UNIQLO total revenue for 2024, reaching 1.71 trillion yen ($11.1 billion USD)

• UNIQLO total revenue for 2023, reaching 1.4 trillion yen ($9 billion USD)

A1 Cash & Carry: Wholesale Priced Groceries & Supplies

While many people might not be familiar with it yet, Cash & Carry is another excellent option for discounted groceries, food items, and kitchen or home essentials. You’ve probably driven by one or heard the name before, but next time, we encourage you to stop in and check it out. While Costco is popular for its bulk deals, A1 Cash and Carry—now a Canadian favorite—offers the best of both worlds: bulk and individual items. They carry nearly everything you need for your kitchen and cleaning needs, including Halal meat, all at incredibly competitive prices. With locations across most major cities in Southern Ontario, it’s a practical and budget-friendly choice—and most importantly, they steer clear of supporting any political agendas.

Most people wonder how Cash & Carry’s work, essentially they buy in bulk directly from the manufacturer and sell the product, they don’t hold stock, what they have is what you get. Now A1 Cash and Carry has expanded, and because they have multiple locations, they do have stocks and an online store. Wholesale prices with no membership fees, we recommend checking them out.

• Founded in 1998 with their first location in Mississauga by Amjad Parvaiz

• A1 Cash & Carry has over 8 locations in Southern Ontario

• Revenue for 2024 estimated to be around $15.5 million CAD

Canada Computers: Your Local Tech Shop

Electronics and tech gifts are at the top of most people’s wish lists, especially with the end of year discounts that always happen this time of year. And, of course, we’re showing you Walmart alternatives, so what better than a Canadian giant in the tech industry, Canada Computers. They stock computer parts, games, consoles, TVs, and many other things you’d look for in an electronic store. Plus, you’ll find employees that specialize in all things computers, and will actually know what they’re talking about.

Not to mention, Canada Computers supports local charities and events, you can reach out for sponsorship opportunities, or browse their list of philanthropy, supporting hospitals, mental health foundations, heart & stroke foundation and more.

We don’t have much financial information, however, here’s some relevant information on them:

• Canada Computers was founded in 1991 by Gordon Chan, in Kingston ON

• Currently has over 40 locations with over 1000 employees, and a headquarters in Richmond Hill, ON

• Estimated 2024 revenue between $200 million CAD to $500 million CAD 

These are the list of our alternatives for Walmart. You might already be going to some of these stores, and you might see a new name. But we want to show you, you have alternatives to these larger stores, and you can make the choice to spend your money elsewhere.

We hope you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, give us your feedback below and we look forward to seeing you again next week!