Wal-Mart Mexico to open 252 new stores

Wal-Mart de Mexico has said it plans to boost spending on new stores and staff in 2009 and open 252 new outlets despite Mexico's slowing economy. Walmex will increase investments by 4% over 2008 to USD805 million, creating 14,500 new direct jobs, said Walmex Chief Executive Officer Eduardo Solorzano. It will also slash prices on 1,700 items to draw more customers, Solorzano said.