There seems to be a growing misperception regarding the use of the phrase “Merry Christmas” at Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart would like to clarify that it has no policy that prohibits an associate from wishing customers “Merry Christmas.”
According to Sarah Clark, Wal-Mart spokesperson, “We encourage associates to use their best judgment when greeting our customers and to assess which greeting – or greetings – best suit the customers and associates in their local store. We want our stores to reflect the communities they serve. If ‘Merry Christmas’ is the preferred greeting, that is fine and appropriate. Or, some associates may choose to say ’Happy Holidays,’ which may be more inclusive for Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Three Kings’ Day, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
In regards to advertising, Wal-Mart’s theme this season is "Home for the Holidays," reflecting the importance of family to our customers and associates during this special time of year, regardless of individual faiths. Wal-Mart features a large selection of Christmas merchandise in our stores and online, recognizing that a broad segment of our customer base wants to buy Christmas trees, cards, and Nativity items in celebration of the Christmas holiday. Many items used in celebration of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Three Kings’ Day and other observances this time of year are also available.