Walmart’s Bakery Decorators Rise to the Top with Impressive Hourly Wages

NEW YORK — As graduation season kicks into high gear, Walmart’s cake decorators are feeling the pressure. These skilled artisans, numbering around 6,200, are trained to customize cakes for customers, significantly contributing to the company’s cake business.

Inside a Walmart store in New Jersey, employees are busy applying the finishing touches to various cakes. One worker uses edible ink to feature SpongeBob, while another forms a buttercream rosette border. The cakes, however, are not baked in-store; they arrive pre-made and frozen from suppliers.

Walmart places a premium on this service. Cake decorators are the highest-paid hourly workers at the retailer, earning an average of $19.25, compared to $18.25 for most non-managerial staff. This reflects the importance of custom cake orders during peak seasons.

Melissa Fernandez, who has worked at Walmart for over a decade, transitioned to a cake decorating position after training for two months. “I love anything artistic,” she shared, revealing her hourly wage has climbed to $24.40.

Despite their popularity, Walmart decorators have faced criticism, especially on social media platforms like TikTok. Some accuse them of undermining professional cake artists with cheaper alternatives. A viral TikTok post showcasing a $25 heart-shaped cake sparked discussions about the value of handmade goods versus mass-produced items.

The financial appeal of Walmart cakes is evident. A customized sheet cake for 96 people costs $59, significantly less than similar products at independent bakeries. Walmart commands a substantial share of the cake market, with claims that one in four cakes sold in the U.S. is from their stores.

During graduation season, the demand intensifies. At Fernandez’s location, the daily cake count nearly doubles, climbing from 30-35 to 50-60. Manager Michael DeMarco attributes this spike to customer loyalty and the influence of TikTok promotions.

Fernandez’s creations, including a $24 bouquet cake made from individually decorated cupcakes, drew substantial digital attention, amassing nearly 500,000 views online. The store’s unique cake designs continue to captivate a growing audience, with heart-shaped and themed cakes becoming increasingly popular.

The creativity of Walmart decorators is met with rising expectations. Tiffany Witzke, another veteran of the trade, noted that customer demands have evolved from simple borders to intricate designs. With over 912,000 followers on TikTok, Witzke showcases her skills and the latest trends.

In contrast, independent baker Liz Berman emphasizes a different model. She charges significantly higher prices for cakes, relying on premium ingredients and custom designs. “It’s a totally different business model,” Berman stated, reinforcing the unique offerings of artisanal bakeries amidst Walmart’s affordability.

Walmart’s cake business not only offers better profit margins compared to groceries but also caters to budget-conscious consumers. According to market analyst Marshal Cohen, today’s shoppers often prioritize value, finding satisfaction in Walmart’s offerings.

Customers at the North Bergen Walmart expressed their satisfaction with the cake selection. George Arango, who purchased two custom cakes for $40, remarked, “The price is fantastic.”

As graduation season unfolds, Walmart appears poised to maintain its dominance in the cake decorating market while navigating both praise and criticism from various segments of the baking community.