DALLAS (KRLD) - Don't mess with our beloved greeters.
That's the main message sent by Walmart customers, after the company last week let some of the popular front-door employees know that physical responsibilities would be added to their job description. For example, in addition to greeting customers and checking receipts, the workers would also have to lift 25-pound packages and climb ladders. Many of the Walmart greeters are disabled, and the public quickly rushed to their defense on social media.
SMU Professor Steve Lee, a marketing expert, said, "It's a heartbreaking story. It really does tug at our heartstrings, because it maybe affects thousands of disabled workers."
Walmart quickly felt the backlash after the word got out, but Lee said it's important to remember the retailer is part of an extremely competitive industry. He said, "Is this Walmart being this horrible, nasty, greedy, heartless organization? And unfortunately in today's world, I think we jump to that. Or, are they just merely trying to stay competitive in this volatile retail world we live in?"
Walmart initially told affected employees they would have a 60-day transition period to adapt to new roles in the company. Now the retailer says that window will be extended indefinitely as it considers the issue. Lee said, "I really do hope they'll allow these stores to actually keep some of their people who have become cherished employees at every place you go."
The Walmart policy change has resulted in several complaints to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In addition, a federal lawsuit filed in Utah alleges discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Late Walmart founder Sam Walton started the greeter program in the early 1980s. Lee said, "I have to wonder, if Sam Walton was still there and in charge, whether this action would have been taken or not."
