Organizing Wal-Mart

At its more than 3,200 stores in the U.S., Wal-Mart does not recognize any unions for collective bargaining. The company's official policy as posted on its website is that "because we believe in maintaining an environment of open communications, we do not believe there is a need for third-party representation." But the retail giant has taken a different approach toward its 42 stores in China. Last week, the company issued a statement saying: "Should [employees] request formation of a union, Wal-Mart China would respect their wishes and honor its obligation under China's Trade Union Law." The company succumbed to pressure...