From Removing DEI to Bigger Business with a Texas Partner
After facing widespread boycotts over corporate greed and pulling back its DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts, Walmart is making an even bigger move—buying a shopping mall. The retailer recently purchased Monroeville Mall near Pittsburgh for $34 million, raising questions about its future plans.
Walmart is working with Texas-based Cypress Equities to redevelop the mall and annex building, but details remain scarce. A company statement simply confirmed Walmart is “very interested” in any future redevelopment of the site.
Industry experts believe the deal is less about owning a mall and more about controlling prime real estate. Buying an existing retail hub means Walmart avoids zoning issues, has built-in infrastructure, and can collect rental income while planning its next move. This strategy could expand if the Pittsburgh project proves successful.
Despite recent consumer backlash, Walmart continues to diversify beyond traditional retail. Some speculate the company may open a new store, a fulfillment hub, or experiment with new revenue models through property ownership—similar to IKEA, which owns shopping malls worldwide.
Whatever Walmart’s endgame, its shift from shutting down DEI efforts to buying entire shopping centers signals that, despite recent criticism, it is doubling down on expansion—whether consumers like it or not.
