Wal-Mart has appointed a new chief executive for its Japanese operations, the company confirmed today (29 January).

According to a spokesperson for the US retail giant, the company appointed Toru Noda to the post after its current head, Edward Kolodzieski took responsibility for global purchasingunder the company’s new consolidated structure.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Noda, formerly EVP and COO of Walmart Japan Holdings, will take over from Kolodzieski as CEO of Wal-Mart Japan.

Noda takes over Wal-Mart’s Japanese operations as the company is attempting to revive its struggling Seiyu chain.

The wholly-owned subsidiary has closed under-performing stores and focused on delivering a value preposition in a bid to woo Japanese consumers in a highly competitive market. 

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Winning five categories in the 2025 Just Food Excellence Awards, Centric Software is setting the pace for digital transformation in food and FMCG. Explore how its integrated PLM and PXM suite delivers faster launches, smarter compliance and data-driven growth for complex, multi-channel product portfolios.

Discover the Impact