Wal-Mart has changed the rules governing the election of directors to the retailer’s board.


Until now, directors had been elected by plurality, in which candidates who received the most votes were elected. Now, the board has adopted a majority voting standard, meaning that each nominee must gain a majority of the votes cast in order to be elected to the board. Plurality voting will still apply in contested elections, where the number of candidates exceeds the number of available seats on the board. 


“The majority vote standard has been proposed by our shareholders in previous years,” said Wal-Mart board chairman Rob Walton. “We believe that due to recent changes in Delaware law, the majority vote standard is now in the best interests of the company and its shareholders.” 


The Delaware General Corporation Law was amended in August of this year. Under the new legislation a director can submit an irrevocable resignation in advance of an election that would take effect upon his or her failure to achieve a specified vote for reelection.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.