(Reuters] -Walmart Inc stated Wednesday it would hire over 50,000 employees in the United States during the first quarter. The move comes as the U.S. retailer seeks to increase its stores and fulfillment centers.

Walmart (NYSE: ) announced that the positions will be filled at stores, clubs campuses, supply chains and other locations.

This announcement follows a statement by the company that it will hire thousands of people for its tech hubs in Toronto, Atlanta and other cities.

U.S. job postings declined in January. However, they were near records highs due to worker shortages. These factors point to a tight labor marketplace that will continue to produce strong wage gains as well as keep inflation high.

Walmart’s hourly average rate in America is $16.40 per hour, and in certain markets and roles the starting wages can reach $30 per hour. Donna Morris, chief people officer at Walmart stated in a blog post to its corporate website that Walmart’s hourly wage in the United States was $15.40 an hour.

According to the retailer, it has hired nearly 4500 truck drivers and 5,500 pharmacy supervisors last year. In September, the retailer also revealed plans to hire 150,000 U.S. workers. Most of these will be permanent.

The Wall Street Journal first published the news about the hiring.