Walmart has raised the pay for thousands of newly created pharmacy team leaders and pharmacy technicians. In a press release, the 5th largest U.S. pharmacy by revenue announced the new positions and the 86% pay raises.

The retailer has increased the pay for 3,000 new pharmacy leaders from an average of $28 an hour to $42, and for pharmacy technicians from $22 to $40.50.

Walmart credits the move as an example of its investments in its Health & Wellness division across 4,200 locations in the United States.

According to a company press release, no college degree is required to become a pharmacy sales associate, technician, or operations team lead. They added "Walmart pays for associates to become certified pharmacy technicians. Since 2016, more than 22,000 associates have completed their certification, opening the door to leadership roles and broader career growth."

Walmart did stipulate the the amount was an average and may vary, depending on location.

Kevin Host, senior vice president of pharmacy at Walmart stated "By increasing pay, elevating thousands of leadership roles and removing barriers to entry and advancement, we are strengthening pharmacy teams while helping associates build meaningful careers and support healthier communities every day."

Walmart brand has nearly 4,600 locations across the country.