Walmart workers' union in Chile has ended a six-day strike after its current labour agreement with the company was extended for another 18 months, Reuters has reported. 

The National Federation of Walmart Workers described the decision as "painful, but necessary" following the strike.  

The union had been seeking wage adjustments in line with inflation and enhanced benefits. 

The strike was launched in mid-July 2024 following unsuccessful negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. 

Walmart Chile immediately warned that 75 supermarkets could close, with another 82 potentially on limited operations.  

According to local legislation, union members are permitted to settle for a base contract and revisit negotiations in 18 months. 

Meanwhile, in a separate development, Walmart has inaugurated a new 730,000ft²  perishable distribution centre (PDC) in Lancaster, Texas.  

Situated 15 miles south of Dallas, the new facility can handle and process fresh produce, eggs, dairy, flowers and frozen goods for delivery to Walmart stores.

The Lancaster PDC is part of Walmart’s supply chain transformation to keep its 4,600 stores well-stocked with fresh and frozen merchandise.  

It is the second of five planned high-tech perishable distribution centres, equipped with advanced technology to process more than double the volume of a traditional distribution centre. 

This technology not only ensures faster delivery of items to store shelves but also creates new career opportunities and pathways for associates.  

The Lancaster facility, located at 940 East Pleasant Run Road, employs more than 500 full-time Walmart associates and is hiring for tech-focused positions including automation equipment operators. 

The Lancaster facility general manager Ervin Goad said: “We’re proud to create new opportunities for our associates, equipping them with the skills to manage the advanced robotics technology transforming our business.  

"Associates at the Lancaster facility will play a pivotal role in making sure our customers have the items they want, when they want them."

Walmart has a significant presence in Texas, with 590 retail units and an online platform. 

The company employs 176,000 associates in the state.  

In May 2024, Walmart expanded its operation in Pennsylvania with a new fulfilment centre in Greencastle.