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Walmart CEO Doug McMillon is stepping down after a decade of leading major changes. John Furner will take over in 2026. Here’s what this leadership shift means for Walmart’s future.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon Is Stepping Down Next Year
The retail world is preparing for a major change, as Walmart CEO Doug McMillon is stepping down after more than ten years of leading the company. This leadership shift is one of the most important moments for Walmart, especially as the retail industry continues to face constant challenges. The focus keyword “Walmart CEO Doug McMillon” plays a central role in this transition story.
McMillon will retire on February 1, 2026, and will be succeeded by John Furner, the current CEO and president of Walmart US. The move marks a natural transition between two leaders who both started as hourly associates and rose through decades of experience inside the company.
A Leadership Change During a Tough Retail Climate
This change comes at a time when many retailers are struggling with tariffs, shifting customer habits, and low consumer confidence. But Walmart, under McMillon’s leadership, has managed to stay strong. His focus on a powerful supply chain and affordable grocery pricing helped the company attract shoppers from many income levels, including high-income households earning over $100,000 per year.
More importantly, McMillon helped Walmart become a true competitor to Amazon. He pushed the company deeper into e-commerce and expanded Walmart+, which has become a strong subscription alternative to Amazon Prime.
McMillon’s Big Decisions and Long-Term Impact
During his time as the Walmart CEO, McMillon was known not only for growth but also for taking bold stands. In 2019, he restricted ammunition sales and urged customers not to openly carry guns in stores after a tragic mass shooting. He spoke against political violence and often criticized tariffs that hurt American businesses.
But not all risks paid off. The $3 billion purchase of Jet.com did not succeed as expected, and Walmart later shut down the platform. The push for upscale clothing brands like Bonobos also struggled to find long-term momentum.
Still, McMillon’s journey from store associate to CEO remains one of the strongest leadership stories in the company’s history. Under his guidance, Walmart’s stock price grew nearly 300% since 2014.
How John Furner Compares to Doug McMillon
Here is a simple comparison of both leaders:
| Category | Doug McMillon | John Furner |
|---|---|---|
| Years at Walmart | 30+ years | 30+ years |
| Background | Store associate → CEO | Hourly associate → CEO of Walmart US |
| Big Achievements | E-commerce expansion, Walmart+ growth, supply chain modernization | Strong store operations, digital innovation, associate development |
| Known For | Bold decisions, cultural influence, global strategy | Operational excellence, technology adoption |
What This Transition Means for Walmart’s Future
Furner will take on one of the most important roles in retail, leading more than 4,600 stores across the United States. Walmart has credited him for developing associates, improving digital tools, and keeping operations running smoothly.
McMillon will stay on Walmart’s board until next June and will advise Furner until the end of fiscal year 2027. This ensures continuity and gives Furner solid support as he steps into the role.
The leadership change signals the start of a new chapter. While McMillon reshaped Walmart for the digital era, Furner now faces the challenge of shaping the company for the next decade.
