Gifts & Entertainment

Recognize and Avoid Conflicts of Interest

Gifts & Entertainment

No. Because the t-shirts are coming from the supplier and are not related to the product team gaining an understanding of the product, the team should not accept the t-shirts. Politely decline the t-shirts and explain our standard on gifts and entertainment to the supplier.  

No. Due to our business relationship with the supplier, Walmart should incur the costs associated with the event to avoid a conflict of interest.

Yes. You may accept customary refreshments such as a coffee, soft drink or small snack.

Yes, you may accept the gift since you do not work with this supplier in your Walmart role.

No. To ensure that you treat all of your suppliers fairly and make objective business decisions, you should not accept free tickets or purchase tickets from your suppliers. Accepting free tickets from your supplier would be considered a gift. If you buy the tickets at face value, you may not be paying the actual fair market value of the tickets. The difference in the face value and the fair market value would also be considered a gift. Even if you paid fair market value for the tickets, you have access to the tickets because of your business relationship with the supplier; therefore, it would not be acceptable to buy the tickets from your supplier.

In some instances, it may be more cost effective and sustainable for associates to ride with a supplier while conducting business. If it’s necessary to travel with the supplier, you should pay your portion of the travel expenses (e.g. half the taxi fee, half the cost of gas, etc.). If these situations arise, talk to your manager.

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