Mexico's Walmex sees 2026 capex of some $2.4 billion, proposes buyback

By Natalia Siniawski

MEXICO CITY, March 25 (Reuters) - Walmex, the Mexican and Central American unit of Walmart, said on Wednesday it expects capex of around 43 billion pesos ($2.43 billion) in 2026, a 10% increase over the previous year.

The retailer also proposed a share buyback program of up to 10 billion pesos and an ordinary cash dividend of 1.16 pesos per share, the company said in a statement.

• 42% of the investment will be directed to remodeling and maintenance of existing stores.

• 26% allocated to new store and club construction; new stores expected to contribute 1.5%-1.7% to total sales growth in 2026.

• 24% allocated to supply chain expansion and modernization through automation; 8% earmarked for technology to improve data management, digital shopping platforms, and automation in stores and distribution centers.

DIVIDENDS AND BUYBACKS

• The company proposed up to 10 billion pesos for share repurchases, subject to corresponding internal approvals.

• Walmex also proposed an ordinary cash dividend of 1.16 pesos per share, paid in two installments of 0.58 pesos each in November 18 and December 9, 2026.

NEW BOARD CHAIR

• Walmex said at its next shareholders meeting on April 20 it will ratify the exit of chairman Guilherme Loureiro, who is due to step down March 31. He is slated to be replaced by Kyle Kinnard.

($1 = 17.7255 Mexican pesos)