Walmart Stock Price, News & Analysis

Walmart is enhancing its holiday shopping experience by introducing extended return policies, new return options, and significant price investments for deeper savings. Customers can enjoy a 'Holiday Guarantee' for returns until January 31, 2023, curbside returns, and home pickup for Walmart+ members. The retailer is also expanding its product assortment, including a notable increase in toy inventory and exclusive brands. With over 40,000 seasonal hires, Walmart aims to ensure strong supply chains and in-stock levels during this busy season.

Walmart is welcoming approximately 40,000 new associates for the holiday season to enhance customer experience through various roles, including seasonal store associates and full-time truck drivers. The hiring initiative aims to support busy families while promoting internal growth, with entry-level employees often advancing in just seven months. Walmart emphasizes a commitment to associate welfare, providing benefits such as medical coverage starting at $31.40 per paycheck, 401(k) matching, and a competitive average wage of over $17 per hour.

On September 20, 2022, Firework announced its partnership with Walmart Connect to integrate livestream and shoppable video content into Walmart's digital platforms. This collaboration aims to enhance the customer shopping experience by providing engaging, short-form videos that facilitate product discovery and purchases. The initiative supports Walmart's Mega Beauty Event held from September 13-16, featuring brands like J&J, L'Oreal, P&G, and Unilever. This move comes as e-commerce sales in the U.S. are projected to exceed $1 trillion, indicating a shift towards video-centric commerce.

The Big Homecoming Festival, co-created by Grammy winners Amir Windom and Maurice Slade, is launching Phase II with The 365 Impact Tour, aimed at supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Major partners like Walmart (WMT), Wells Fargo (WFC), and Allstate (ALL) will provide resources to enhance education, leadership, financial literacy, health, and entrepreneurship among students. The tour kicks off on September 13, 2022, at North Carolina A&T University, continuing efforts to celebrate and sustain the legacy of Black excellence through community engagement.

Walmart+ has integrated a Paramount+ Essential Plan into its membership, enhancing the service at no extra cost. Starting today, subscribers can enjoy a variety of popular content, including shows like 'Halo' and 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.' Walmart+ remains priced at $98 annually or $12.95 monthly, now offering an additional $59 value through the streaming service. This move aims to bring further value to Walmart+ members, aligning with the growing demand for integrated streaming services.

Walmart and UnitedHealth Group announced a 10-year collaboration aimed at enhancing health services in the U.S. The partnership will initiate in 2023 across 15 Walmart Health locations in Florida and Georgia, expanding to serve Medicare beneficiaries through various plans. Utilization of Optum's analytics will enable Walmart Health clinicians to provide value-based care. A co-branded Medicare Advantage plan will be available starting January 2023, alongside Walmart Health Virtual Care options. The collaboration is designed to improve health outcomes and patient experience for millions.

Bonobos launched its Fall 2022 campaign, featuring actor Nick Kroll, celebrating the fit of its men's apparel. The campaign showcases various pant styles, including Slim Taper and Athletic Fit, promoting confidence through better fitting clothing. Running from September 6 to mid-November, the campaign includes digital ads, social media, and TV spots, alongside physical promotions in Bonobos Guideshop locations. The creative was developed with Transport New York, highlighting a commitment to style and comfort.

Walmart has announced a strategic partnership with Sustainable Beef LLC, acquiring a minority stake in the rancher-owned company. This investment aims to enhance the beef supply chain by supporting the construction of a new processing facility in North Platte, Nebraska, which is set to create over 800 jobs and is expected to open by late 2024. Walmart intends to improve access to high-quality beef for its customers while fostering growth for ranchers, ensuring responsible animal care practices, and boosting the overall capacity of the beef industry.

Walmart has launched its 2022 Top Toy List, featuring 55 of the season's most sought-after toys, with over half priced under $50 and many under $25. The list includes popular brands like LEGO, Cocomelon, and Barbie, along with exclusive Walmart offerings. Customers can shop early, with many toys available for immediate purchase or pre-order. Walmart aims to enhance shopping convenience with curbside pickup and delivery options, promising to meet the needs of families during the holiday season.