Walmart delivered a solid first quarter, with US comp sales (ex-fuel) up 7.4%, driven by strong sales in food and health and wellness, but partially offset by a softening in GM sales. Whilst the retailer is recognised globally for its price leadership, in recent quarters it has addressed the increasing importance of becoming widely renowned for offering convenience. Here we explore this further, ...

Walmart has appointed Latriece Watkins as its new chief merchandising officer, following Charles Redfield’s decision to leave the business. Experienced Walmart executive Watkins has risen through the ranks at Walmart following a 24 year career with the retailer. Most recently she held the position of executive vice president or consumables. First joining the company as an intern in real estat...

Building on their strategic partnership, Walmart US and SES-imagotag are set to deploy the tech company’s VUSION platform, with 60m digital shelf edge labels (ESLs) to be installed. We consider the implications on this and how the technology will evolve over the next few years. Roll-out to 500 stores over the next 12-18 months This deal spans several years, with over 500 Walmart stores to b...