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Do Walmart Floor Walkers Exist?

I remember seeing this story and wondering “are we talking zombies” at Walmart? Nope – it’s a security measure at Walmart involving floor walkers following customers. Here’s the deal: Floor…

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EAST SETAUKET, NEW YORK – MARCH 16: An image of the sign for Walmart as photographed on March 16, 2020 in East Setauket, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

I remember seeing this story and wondering "are we talking zombies" at Walmart? Nope - it's a security measure at Walmart involving floor walkers following customers. Here's the deal:

Floor Walkers at Walmart

Here's what I found doing research: In Walmart stores, floor walkers are undercover loss prevention associates tasked with monitoring customers to prevent theft. Unlike uniformed security personnel, they blend in with shoppers, making their presence less noticeable.Their primary role is to observe and identify suspicious behavior, aiming to deter shoplifting and reduce inventory loss. Here's a guy who says he was one:

There have been some interesting cases about this (see here) - including the debate as to whether or not profiling can happen - a court case in 2016 said the floor walker allegedly framed a disabled shopper for theft.

How to spot a floorwalker at Walmart

Someone put up a video to let you know what to look for...does this bother you? To be honest - our very own Screamin' Scott will follow people if he thinks they're wearing a Chit shirt. Anyway - here's the video:

Should you say something if you think you're being followed by a floorwalker? Here's more research:

While floor walkers play a crucial role in retail security, it's important for stores to balance loss prevention efforts with a positive customer experience. If you ever feel uncomfortable or believe you're being unfairly monitored while shopping, consider speaking with a store manager to address your concerns.

I'm going to say that's a yes. What do you think?

Jim O'Brien is the Host of "Big Jim's House" Morning Show at 94.7 WCSX in Detroit. Jim spent eight years in the U.S. Naval Submarine Service, has appeared on Shark Tank (Man Medals Season 5 Ep. 2), raised over two million dollars for local charities and is responsible for Glenn Frey Drive and Bob Seger Blvd in the Motor City. Jim's relationship with Classic Rock includes considering Bob Seger, Phil Collen from Def Leppard, Wally Palmer of the Romantics and many others good friends. Jim writes about ‘80s movies, cars, weird food trends and “as seen on TikTok” content.