A weeklong Walmart boycott is underway across the United States, as customer frustration mounts over rising prices, corporate profits, and the retailer’s response to tariffs. Organized by The People’s Union USA, the boycott runs through May 26, targeting not only Walmart stores but also its subsidiaries like Sam’s Club and Walmart+.
Why are people boycotting Walmart?
The protest group accuses Walmart of contributing to economic inequality. In a statement, organizer John Schwarz said the company has profited while working families struggle.
“We’ve watched these companies rake in billions while families can barely afford groceries,” Schwarz wrote. “Walmart, just like the rest of them, has been part of that problem.”
The group’s website calls for “economic resistance” as a form of protest, aiming to pressure major corporations into adopting fairer tax practices and price controls. The campaign is part of a broader movement to boycott companies accused of price gouging and labor exploitation.
Tariffs adding fuel to the fire
At the center of the backlash are tariff-related price hikes. Walmart executives have warned that tariffs imposed under Donald Trump’s trade policy are raising the cost of imported goods.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said during a recent earnings call that although the company would do its best to keep prices low, it could not absorb all tariff-related costs due to thin retail margins.
“We’ll keep prices as low as we can for as long as we can,” McMillon said. “But we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure.”
President Trump, in response, urged Walmart to “eat the cost” of tariffs rather than pass them on to consumers. However, Walmart and other retailers argue that the scale of the tariffs makes that impossible.
Is the boycott working?
Foot traffic at Walmart stores has already seen a 2.4% year-over-year decline in early 2025, according to Placer.ai. Visits dropped nearly 6% in February and 4% in March, although April saw a brief rebound during the Easter holiday.
Walmart reported $5.7 billion in U.S. operating income during Q1 2025—up 7% from a year ago—but general merchandise sales, including home goods and electronics, have weakened.
While it’s unclear how much of the traffic decline can be tied to organized boycotts, the timing suggests consumer sentiment is shifting. The People’s Union USA says it plans to escalate its efforts after July 4, with boycotts targeting Target, McDonald’s, and others.
What happens next?
Walmart continues to face pressure from both consumers and political leaders. As tariffs remain in effect and prices inch upward, further boycotts could disrupt the retailer’s mid-year strategy. The company says it will continue to monitor consumer behavior and adapt as needed.
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