Wal-Mart has attracted controversy for decades: Its supporters laud its low prices and market efficiencies, while its opponents charge that the company exploits workers, destroys local economies and pollutes the environment.
Now, despite warnings from the retailer that it would reconsider its plans to open three stores in Washington, the District of Columbia Council has passed a living-wage bill that would require Wal-Mart to pay its workers here at least $12.50 per hour.
Let's examine a few of these impressions about the world's largest retailer.