Walmart Delivers Last-Minute Savings and Convenience with Holiday Grand Finale

Rhea-AI Summary

Walmart announces extended shipping deadlines and last-minute holiday deals running through December 24. Customers can order by December 23 (12:30 PM local) for Christmas delivery, with Express Delivery available until December 24 (4 PM local). Same-day pickup and delivery orders can be placed until December 24 (12 PM local).

The retailer highlights its enhanced fulfillment capabilities, with over 50% of fulfillment center volume now automated, double from last year. The 'Last Minute Gifts' event features significant discounts across various categories, including tech, toys, fashion, and home goods. New features include digital ambient rooms for shopping inspiration and convenient return options, including Walmart+ Returns from Home service.

Positive

• 50% increase in automated fulfillment center volume compared to last year
• Extended shipping deadlines providing competitive advantage
• Expanded next/two-day shipping coverage to 95% of U.S.
• Implementation of four next-gen fulfillment centers
• Automation implementation in 3,000 stores for faster inventory management

Negative

• None.

Insights

Market Research Analyst

This article about Walmart's holiday season initiatives, while extensive, primarily focuses on routine operational updates and marketing promotions. The announcement of extended shipping deadlines, holiday deals and improved supply chain automation represents standard seasonal business activities rather than material developments that would significantly impact the company's financial performance or stock value.

While the improvements in automation and fulfillment capabilities (with automated distribution centers reaching 3,000 stores and 95% of U.S. coverage for next/two-day shipping) show operational progress, these are incremental developments that were likely already priced into the stock. The holiday promotions and convenience features, while positive for customer experience, are expected competitive measures rather than market-moving developments.

With a reliable last-mile and amazing last-minute deals across its assortment, the retailer wraps up the holiday season with more convenience, savings, speed and ease for customers

BENTONVILLE, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Walmart is tying a bow on another incredible holiday season. With the countdown in its final stretch, the retailer is leveraging its integrated supply chain and expansive store footprint to deliver unparalleled convenience and customer experience. Walmart customers still checking off their lists can save time and money with new deals on top gifts and newly extended shipping cutoff dates that offer an extra 48 hours to shop gifts for delivery.

Shopping and Shipping Cutoffs

As a leading omnichannel retailer powered by its seamless end-to-end delivery network, Walmart meets its customers where, when and how they want to shop – in-store, online or in-app – with flexible and convenient shipping, delivery and pickup options that fit any bustling holiday schedule:

• Order by 12:30 p.m. local time Dec. 23 for delivery by Dec. 25
  • Walmart knows nothing is more precious than the gift of time, so this year, the retailer is giving its customers two more days to shop gifts for delivery with newly extended cutoffs for next day or two-day shipping.
• Order by 4 p.m. local time Dec. 24 for Express Delivery
  • For ultimate speed and convenience this season, Walmart’s Express Delivery brings orders from stores to doorsteps in as soon as 30 minutes – because holiday magic shouldn’t have to wait. And as a special holiday gift just for paid Walmart+ members, they’re eligible for one free Express Delivery through Dec. 31.
• Order by 12 p.m. local time Dec. 24 for in-store same-day pick-up and delivery
  • With our Online Pickup and Delivery services, customers can choose the option that works best for them. Customers can pick up their items curbside from one of our more than 4,000 stores. Same-day delivery is also available – customers place an order by 12 p.m. local time for same-day pickup and delivery through 4 p.m. Whatever the choice, we’ve got it covered with expanded timeslots and more gifts than ever available for pickup and delivery.

Walmart's fulfillment strategy is front and center, thanks to ongoing investments in data, intelligent software and automation. In fact, more than half of Walmart’s fulfillment center volume is now automated, up double from this time last year, offering access to next or two-day shipping on an even broader assortment of items.

“We're proud of the progress we've made this year in our supply chain transformation,” said David Guggina, executive vice president of supply chain operations, Walmart U.S. “We’re ensuring customers can count on Walmart having the items they want, when they want them, no matter when they choose to shop this holiday season.”

More Savings, Less Stressing

Walmart brought customers holiday savings in October so its early shoppers didn’t have to wait to save. And in its commitment to saving customers money no matter when, where or how they shop, Walmart is giving customers one last chance to save big with its grand finale deals event, “Last Minute Gifts” running Dec. 9 through Dec. 24.

Starting online and in stores today, Walmart “Last-Minute Gifts” brings customers two weeks of deep discounts on gifts from top brands and Marketplace sellers across its endless aisles of tech, toys, fashion, home and beauty, including:

• Dakota Fleece Women's and Girls’ Smiley Cozy Comfort Slippers – $9 (Special Buy)
• Joyspun Women's and Women’s Plus Super Minky Fleece Long Sleeve Top with Pajama Pants, Giftable 2-Piece Set – $10 (Special Buy)
• Ozark Trail Glide Mountain Bike, 24" Wheels, 8 Speed – $148 (Save $50)
• Dude Perfect Ultimate Sports Bounce House, 4-in-1, 8' X 10' – $299 (Save $100)
• PAW Patrol, Marshall’s Firetruck with Figure – $5 (Save $4.97)
• L.O.L. Surprise Magic Flyers: Sky Starling- Hand Guided Flying Doll – $19 (Save $4.99)
• JBL Tune Beam - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – $39 (Save $40)
• LeapFrog Tad's Fridge Phonics – $15 (Save $13.67)
• Nutribullet Blender Combo – $59 (Special Buy)
• Squishmallows Official Cam Bean Bag Chair – $49.98 (Save $4.90)
• Cate & Chloe Sophia 18K White Gold-Plated Halo Necklace – $14.99
• Project Cloud 100% Genuine Suede Snow Boots - Ankle Boots for Women (Hippy) – $47.90 (Save $17.09)
• Piezano Pizza Oven – $94.99 (Save $40.55)
• Flashforge 3D Printer – $189 (Save $110)
• Perricone MD High Potency Classics Face Finishing & Firming Moisturizer, 0.5 fl. Oz. $17.50 (Save $7.50)
• L'ange Hair Le Duo 360 Airflow Styler, Titanium Flat Iron Hair Straightener – $62.30 (Save $56.70)

This season, set the perfect holiday mood and find gift giving inspiration – with Walmart’s new digital ambient rooms – Background Joys. Walmart is partnering with Google’s Creative Works to create these first-ever shoppable ambient rooms, featuring four seasonal scenes: The Chic Chalet, The Technicolor Holiday Party, The Reindeer Flight and the iconic Luke’s Diner in Star’s Hollow from Gilmore Girls. Each scene is the perfect backdrop for celebrating the holidays with festive music and cozy ASMR. Customers can shop directly from YouTube, YouTube TV and Roku by simply scanning the QR code on the screen. Tune in, vibe out and shop, all from the comfort of your own home.

More Convenience, Less Hustle

Walmart takes the hassle out of the hustle with affordable, flexible shopping conveniences that make it easier to wrap up shopping and finish the season stress-free and with a smile, including:

• Headache-Free Returns: Walmart’s return options are as easy and convenient as its shopping experience. With Walmart’s ‘Holiday Guarantee,’ customers can return or exchange most items sold by Walmart and Marketplace sellers. And customers have more time to return with the retailer’s extended returns window Oct. 1 through Jan. 31 – in-store or conveniently curbside. Walmart+ members can make the most of their time-saving perks with Walmart+ Returns from Home, allowing members to make returns directly from their doorstep without a box or return label.
• Industry-leading Supply Chain: This is the first holiday season with four of Walmart’s next-gen fulfillment centers fully online, moving millions of items to customers’ doorsteps and helping Walmart now reach 95% of the U.S. with next or two-day shipping.
  • Additionally, by the end of the year roughly 3,000 stores will receive merchandise from automated distribution centers, helping to get items off trucks and onto the sales floor faster and more efficiently, accelerating how quickly Walmart delivers products to customers.
• New one-click stocking for under $25: Now there’s no excuse to forget mom or struggle with what to bring for a white elephant gift exchange. Walmart took the guesswork out of what to put in her stocking this year with its stocking bundle – stuffed with the perfect little somethings for her, for only $25. Best yet, with one-click, the stocking is ready for fast pickup or delivery – even if it’s the night before or on the way to the party.
• New holiday ham meal for under $5 / person: When it’s time to gather around the table, Walmart’s new one-click holiday ham meal basket offers a savory ham feast that feeds 12 people with 28 items for less than $5 per person. At Walmart, customers don’t have to compromise to serve loved ones a delicious, affordable holiday dinner.

About Walmart

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better — anytime and anywhere — in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 255 million customers and members visit more than 10,500 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2024 revenue of $648 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X (formerly known as Twitter) at twitter.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241208320173/en/

pressoffice@walmart.com

800-331-0085

Source: Walmart Inc.

FAQ

What is Walmart's (WMT) last shipping date for Christmas delivery 2023?

Walmart's last shipping date for Christmas delivery is December 23, with orders needed by 12:30 PM local time for delivery by December 25.

Does Walmart (WMT) offer Express Delivery for last-minute Christmas shopping?

Yes, Walmart offers Express Delivery until 4 PM local time on December 24, with delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Walmart+ members get one free Express Delivery through December 31.

What are Walmart's (WMT) same-day pickup options for Christmas 2023?

Walmart offers same-day pickup until 12 PM local time on December 24, with pickup available at over 4,000 stores.

What is Walmart's (WMT) holiday return policy for 2023?

Walmart's extended holiday returns window runs from October 1 through January 31, with in-store and curbside return options available.