Are you ready to step into a newly reimagined Walmart store? Walmart has announced a $130 million plan to roll out what is being called the store of tomorrow. Now according to The Sun, 1,000 stores have been updated already or are being updated to this new store plan.
The goal of these layouts is to modernize Walmart stores not just with the look of it but with how they work to offer a better shopping experience.
With the store of tomorrow, Walmart plans to use data analytics and artificial intelligence to improve its shopping experience. Walmart says this new AI will help manage the stores’ inventory and make sure there are enough carts waiting for you when you arrive. Walmart may also be able to offer tailored recommendations, customized offers, and promotions to customers.
Walmart is also upgrading its displays to be more engaging and partnering with brands like GAP to bring their products to Walmart stores.
Walmart is also looking at expanding the use of robotics and automation to assist with filling orders. At some point, Walmart may follow Amazon and look at fully automated warehouses and fulfillment centers.
Lastly, Walmart has been experimenting with augmented reality (AR) to offer interactive displays and AR-enabled shopping lists.
There is still a long ways to go, as Walmart has 4,648 Walmart locations just in the United States. So Walmart is only about one-fourth of the way through updating their stores.
Has your local store already been updated? If not, look for that to happen in the months and years to come.