Sales at Wal-Mart were down during the holidays -- evidence that publicity about the company's record is having an effect, organizers said.

Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer, said the smallest December sales gain in five years may crimp fourth-quarter profit, according to a report by Bloomberg News Service.

"Perhaps there are many reasons for the less than stellar performance, but the fact remains that the retailer is feeling pressure from a number of groups throughout the country, and the message from the growing movement is simple -- change your behavior," said United Food & Commercial Workers Local 789.

Local 789 staffer Jenny Shego, lead organizer for the Wal-Mart campaign in Minnesota, said the 2005 holiday season was different "because of the tremendous outpouring of support for the campaign, and the realization that economic choices are moral choices."

Local 789 was part of the movement that organized several events at Wal-Mart during the last few months, including rallies and candlelight vigils. More actions will be held at Wal-Marts in Minnesota, Shego said.

In addition, Local 789 plans to push for new laws during this year's Minnesota legislative session, including the Fair-Share Healthcare bill, requiring employers to provide health insurance; the Employer Healthcare Disclosure Act, revealing which companies are pushing their employees onto taxpayer-funded health care programs; and a proposal for economic impact studies in communities where "Big Box" stores are sprouting up.

Related article
Unions try to corner companies that freeload on health insurance

For more information
For more on Wal-Mart's record, visit www.WakeUpWalMart.com