Wal-Mart axes senior jobs, stores

Wal-Mart Stores Inc, the world's largest retailer, has dismissed around 20 mid- and senior-level executives and closed stores in China as part of a restructuring aimed at countering growing pressure from local rivals and online retail sales.

The company said the measures will optimize the organization.

"As we have previously stated, we are transforming our business to meet the needs of a rapidly changing market and customers. Reorganization has been a necessary business reality," it said in a statement, adding that the jobs cuts have been agreed by mutual consent, with the company paying compensation in line with the laws and regulations.