Final answer:
Sam Walton instilled values of frugality, customer service, and a strong work ethic in Wal-Mart, central to its business model focusing on low prices and economies of scale, despite criticisms for labor practices and local economic impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sam Walton's values that he infused into Wal-Mart were centered on frugality, customer service, and a strong work ethic, which were part of the overall business model that emphasized low prices, economies of scale, and cost savings passed down to consumers.
However, this model also contributed to widespread criticism regarding labor practices, local economic impact, and competition practices.
One value is the relentless pursuit of low prices, which involved pressure on vendors to provide products at minimal costs. This element of Walton's value system was believed to be a benefit to consumers but often criticized by observers noting the negative consequences for small local businesses and manufacturing sectors.
Furthermore, Wal-Mart has been scrutinized for its labor practices, as evidenced by the event in 2013 when the National Labor Relations Board ruled against the company for penalizing and firing workers involved in labor protests.
Despite these challenges and criticisms, Walton’s values of providing affordable goods to a broad customer base remain integral to the Wal-Mart corporate ethos, demonstrating a complex balance between consumer interests and broader economic impacts.