Wal-Mart is to create more than 22,000 jobs at its namesake stores in the US this year, the retail giant has claimed.


The announcement comes as Wal-Mart looks to open 142 to 157 new or expanded Walmart stores during the 2010 fiscal year in the US.


The company will create over 1,000 jobs in several individual states including Arizona, Florida and Michigan.


“During this difficult economic time, we’re proud to be able to create quality jobs for thousands of Americans this year,” said Wal-Mart vice chairman Eduardo Castro-Wright.


“At Walmart, we offer competitive pay and benefits and real opportunities for our associates to advance and build careers.”