Walmart Expands Healthcare Ambitions with Major Pharmacy Pay Increases
In a significant move to deepen its presence in the healthcare sector, US retail giant Walmart has announced substantial pay rises for pharmacy workers and the creation of thousands of new entry-level positions that do not require college degrees. This strategic initiative aims to bolster the company's healthcare services, including prescription delivery and partnerships with pharmaceutical firms.
Substantial Wage Enhancements for Pharmacy Teams
Walmart has elevated 3,000 pharmacy technician roles into new manager positions, leading small teams and resulting in an average hourly pay increase from $22 to $28. These newly created team lead roles can earn up to $42 per hour, with additional bonuses available. For a full-time employee working 40 hours weekly, this translates to an annual salary of approximately $87,360 before taxes.
Even pharmacy technicians who are not promoted will benefit from pay rises, with hourly wages in certain areas now reaching as high as $40.50, depending on location and certification levels. These changes impact nearly 4,600 Walmart locations across the United States that operate pharmacies.
Creating Clear Career Pathways Without College Degrees
A key aspect of Walmart's strategy is the emphasis on long-term career development without the barrier of college education. The company confirmed that no degree is required for positions such as pharmacy sales associate, technician, or operations team lead. Furthermore, Walmart covers the costs for associates to become certified pharmacy technicians, with over 22,000 employees completing certification through this program since 2016.
Kevin Host, senior vice president of pharmacy at Walmart, stated, 'This investment is really about supporting the pharmacy teams who show up for their communities every day. We want care to feel simple and close to home. Our pharmacists and technicians make that possible.' He added, 'These investments are about more than compensation. They're about strengthening the care experience in communities across the country while creating clear, long-term career pathways for associates.'
Real-World Impact and Employee Advancement
The initiative has already transformed careers for Walmart employees like Leisha Gonzalez, a newly promoted pharmacy operations team lead in Callaway, Florida. Gonzalez began her journey a decade ago as a cashier, later transitioning to pharmacy and completing her technician certification with company support. 'My hard work has paid off, and I am grateful for the opportunities,' she said. 'The company has helped me build confidence, develop leadership skills, and better serve our patients.'
Team leads will oversee daily pharmacy operations and support pharmacy managers and pharmacists, enabling them to dedicate more time to patient care. This restructuring is part of Walmart's broader plan to grow pharmacy teams and position its stores as comprehensive destinations for healthcare and wellness services.
Competitive Landscape and Strategic Context
Walmart's push into healthcare comes as competition intensifies in the pharmacy market. Rival Amazon has been expanding same-day prescription delivery to more US cities and recently began offering Novo Nordisk's Wegovy weight-loss drug through insurance plans, with cash prices starting around $149 monthly.
This wage increase and role expansion follow a leadership change at Walmart earlier this month, with John Furner taking over as chief executive after the company's fiscal year ended on February 1. Furner, who began his career at Walmart in 1993 as an hourly store associate, replaced Doug McMillon, stepping into the role with extensive experience in merchandising and operations.
Walmart's healthcare investments are part of a larger strategy to drive customer loyalty and digital growth. The company raised its annual forecasts for the second time in November, buoyed by strong online sales and increased demand for faster delivery services, underscoring its commitment to expanding in the competitive healthcare sector.
