BRAZIL (Notifix).- Marcos Samaha, CEO of Walmart Brazil announced a R./ 1.2 billon investment in 2011, most of it to be used in the opening of 80 new stores. With this

investment the world's retail leader expects to create 7.000 new jobs. "Our expansion plan will to continue to support socioeconomic growth for the Brazilian population", Samaha stated. The focus during 2011 will de on store formats geared al the emerging middle class?, he added. Resources will also be allocated to remodeling stores, upgrades in logistics and technology, programs to support regional manufacturers, social responsibility and environment conservation programs. In 2010 the company opened 45 new stores in Brazil and created 6.000 new jobs. The company operates under nine flags: Walmart, Hiper Bompreço, BIG, Bompreço, Nacional, Mercadorama, Maxxi, Sam?s Club and TodoDia. With presence in 18 Brazilian states and the capital district it employs more than 87.000 people.