Walmart is planning to build or convert around 150 stores in the US over the next five years.

The retail giant also has plans to remodel around 650 stores in 47 states over the next 12 months.

The retailer said that the move represents an investment of “millions of dollars” and will lead to the creation of hundreds of jobs.

The new and refurbished stores will be designed around Walmart’s store of the future concept which features new layouts, a wider range of products, and technology to improve the customer experience.

The company said sustainability will be built into the remodelled stores and include features such as energy efficient lighting and lower impact refrigeration. Walmart added that it is working on a coast-to-coast network of fast-charging electric vehicle stations for shoppers.

The first stores under the new initiative will open in the spring and are located in Florida and Georgia.

“These new and remodelled stores will better enable us to meet and exceed customer expectations whether in a store, online at Walmart.com, or through one of our mobile apps,” said John Furner, president and chief executive of Walmart US. “We’re proud that improving our stores also has a tangible impact in the communities we serve. What a win it is to invest in America, grow our business and move toward a more sustainable future – all at the same time.”

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