9 things author Douglas Preston probably doesn’t know about Wal-Mart’s community impact on the state of Maine

1. As of January 2010, Wal-Mart's presence in Maine includes 16 Supercenters, 6 Discount Stores, 3 Sam's Clubs and 1 Distribution Center.

2. As of January 2010, the total number of Wal-Mart associates in Maine is more than 7,000.

3. As of January 2010, the average wage for regular, full-time hourly Wal-Mart associates in Maine is $12.40 per hour. In addition, associates are eligible for performance-based bonuses.

4. In recent years, Wal-Mart has contributed 4% of an associate's eligible pay to their combined Profit Sharing and 401(k) Plan.

5. In FYE 2009, Wal-Mart spent $145 million for merchandise and services with 362 suppliers in the state of Maine. As a result of Wal-Mart's relationship with these suppliers, Wal-Mart supports more than 18,000 supplier jobs in the state of Maine.

6. Wal-Mart collected on behalf of the state of Maine more than $50 million in sales taxes in FYE 2009.

7. Wal-Mart paid more than $18 million in state and local taxes in the state of Maine in FYE 2009.

8. In 2008, Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Club locations and the Walmart Foundation gave more than $1 million in cash and in-kind donations to local organizations in the communities they serve in the state of Maine. Through additional funds donated by customers, and Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club associates throughout the state, the retailer’s contributions in Maine totaled more than $2 million.

9. The hardcover edition of Preston's new Mars-related novel, Impact, can be purchased through Wal-Mart's website for only $15, a savings of 42% off the publisher's suggested retail price. Not only can one save money, one can help subsidize the simple lifestyle of a struggling Maine author!

Source: Wal-Mart