In a surprise announcement that marks the end of an era for the world's largest retailer, Walmart Inc. has revealed that its CEO, Doug McMillon, will retire effective January 31, 2026, after leading the company for over a decade. McMillon, who assumed the role in 2014 at the age of 47, has been instrumental in steering Walmart through a period of significant digital transformation and competitive challenges. The 59-year-old executive will be succeeded by John Furner, the current president and CEO of Walmart U.S., who will take over on February 1, 2026.McMillon expressed his appreciation in a company statement, noting, "Serving as Walmart’s CEO has been a great honor and I’m thankful to our Board and the Walton family for the opportunity. I’m incredibly proud of what our associates accomplished and deeply grateful for their commitment to our customers, to each other and to the communities we serve." To ensure a smooth transition, McMillon will remain on Walmart's Board of Directors until the next annual shareholders' meeting in June 2026 and continue as an advisor to Furner through January 31, 2027.Under McMillon's leadership, Walmart evolved from a traditional brick-and-mortar giant into a robust omnichannel powerhouse, effectively competing with e-commerce behemoths like Amazon. Key achievements include massive investments in technology, such as AI-driven supply chain improvements, expansion of online grocery services, and the growth of Walmart+ membership program. The company also navigated global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and economic pressures, while maintaining its focus on low prices and community support. Walmart's market value more than tripled during his tenure, reflecting strong investor confidence in his strategies.John Furner, 49, brings extensive experience to the role, having joined Walmart in 1993 as an hourly associate and rising through the ranks. He previously led Sam's Club from 2017 to 2019 before taking charge of Walmart U.S. in 2019, where he oversaw operations amid rapid digital shifts and tariff concerns. Walmart's board chair, Greg Penner, praised Furner as "a strong operator with a deep passion for our associates and customers," highlighting his readiness to lead the company into an AI-driven future.The news has sparked reactions across social media and industry circles. On X, users and news outlets quickly shared the update, with one post noting, "Doug McMillon, Walmart's CEO for just over a decade, is retiring next year, the company says." Another highlighted Furner's role at Sam's Club, emphasizing continuity in leadership. Analysts suggest the transition comes at a pivotal time, as Walmart faces potential tariffs under the incoming Trump administration and intensifying competition in retail tech.McMillon's retirement caps a career that began as a teenage truck unloader at Walmart in 1984, embodying the company's ethos of internal promotion. His net worth, bolstered by executive compensation, is estimated in the hundreds of millions, reflecting his successful stewardship. As Furner steps in, the retail giant aims to build on this legacy, focusing on innovation and customer-centric growth.