Wal-Mart will sell FIFA World Cup products, host special events at shops within stores

Wal-Mart Stores to add FIFA World Cup shops

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said Thursday it will collaborate with Global Brands Group to operate special shops advancing soccer’s World Cup tournament next year inside Walmart stores worldwide.

The world’s largest retailer will feature shops branded with the name of sport’s international governing body, FIFA, and it plans to host special events leading up to the games.

The FIFA World Cup starts June 11 and ends July 11.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup shops will sell World Cup official licensed products.

“This is a unique opportunity for us to leverage our global scale, bringing the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa experience to Walmart stores for our local customers,” said John Aden, senior vice president of Wal-mart’s international division.

Wal-mart shares fell 8 cents to $54.49 Thursday morning.