Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer with sales of $379 billion, is in the midst of a major turnaround following several consecutive quarters of weak same-store sales as well as competitive pressure from several rivals. Craig Johnson, president of Customer Growth Partners, and Warren Shoulberg, editor-in-chief of HFN, will discuss Wal-Mart's current market position, the success of its recent strategic shift and the retail giant's short-term challenges.

Customer Growth Partners’ recent clients have included as Disney, J.C. Penney, BJ's Wholesale, Simon Property Growth and leading institutional investors. Customer Growth Partners has been recognized in the top business newspapers and magazines such as the Wall Street Journal, Business Week, Forbes, Fortune, The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. Johnson is also a contributor to Chain Store Age and Barron's.

Shoulberg is a veteran journalist and columnist for HFN, which is the premier trade publication covering the home goods industry from the perspective of retailing, marketing, design and supply. HFN provides detailed information on the key home classifications: Home Textiles, Floor Coverings & Rugs, Furniture, Lighting, Home Decor, Mattresses & Bedding, Tabletop & Gifts, Housewares, Major Appliances, and Business & Finance.

The call takes place on April 22, 2008 at 10 am EST and will last approximately 30 minutes with additional time for questions from listeners.

Please note that the limited seating for members of the advisory community is offered first to those that are supporting the event as sponsors. Participation by partnership organizations (advisory firms, vendors, etc) is limited to clients of Argyle Executive Forum. Argyle meetings are by invitation only. If you did not receive an invitation but would like to inquire about attendance, please click here.

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Perspectives By:

Craig Johnson
President
Customer Growth Partners

Warren Shoulberg
Editor-in-Chief
HFN