Walmart's chief sustainability officer will kick off the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market trade show at the industry breakfast Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011 from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. The event, which is sponsored by Outdoor Industry Association and The North Face, typcially draws standing room only crowds to the Salt Lake City Marriott Downtown Ballroom.


Walmart Senior Vice President, Sustainability Andrea Thomas will provide insight into the Walmart journey towards a more sustainable future, how the company plans to support its vendors in sustainable practices and the importance that one of the world’s largest brands places on sustainable solutions in retail.

“Walmart is one of the most recognized companies presently examining the challenges of scalable sustainability in retail. Learning more about the challenges they’ve faced and need to overcome is beneficial to every business in the outdoor industry.” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of Outdoor Industry Association. “The fact that Walmart is serious about sustainability is a sign that significant changes are coming and that we all should prepare.”


As Walmart’s sustainability chief, Thomas is responsible for working across the global organization as well as with external stakeholders to embed sustainability into all aspects of the company. Prior to assuming this new role in September 2010, she led the Global Merchandising Center for the Home, Hardlines and Entertainment businesses for Walmart. She has also led the brand management, product development and co-manufacturing activities for the multi-billion dollar portfolio of private brands in the Grocery, Dry Goods, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy and Pet categories. Before joining Walmart, Thomas focused on platform innovation, retail marketing and brand management at The Hershey Company and Pepsico.


“The North Face shares a passion and dedication to building sustainable business practices that will impact many retailers in the global community,” said Steve Rendle, vice president, VF and group president, Outdoor & Action Sports Americas. “Understanding how other leading companies plan to build their sustainable supply chains is critical for the specialty outdoor retail community. We’re privileged to share knowledge on an issue that impacts us all.”


For the full line-up of OIA events, educational workshops and activities at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, visit outdoorindustry.org/or.