Walmart China has forged a strategic alliance with food delivery service provider Meituan, expediting its omnichannel transformation.
The collaboration will see the two entities form a deep partnership focusing on instant delivery services, expanding product selections, enhancing product operations, bolstering digital customer capabilities and advancing digital marketing strategies.
In a statement distributed through its WeChat account, Walmart China communicated that the partnership is set to propel its e-commerce ventures forward. E-commerce currently represents almost half of Walmart's sales in China.
The integration with Meituan's delivery network is already operational.
Walmart China chief procurement officer Zhu Jun emphasised the development of an all-encompassing retail framework that synergises online and offline modalities to accommodate a variety of shopping experiences and delivery preferences.
"We aim to provide consumers with high-quality, diversified retail options through a seamless integration of platforms and channels," Zhu stated, as reported by China Daily.
Meituan vice-president Xiao Kun also highlighted the company's rapid purchase service commitment to deliver "everything home in 30 minutes, anytime, anywhere."
Meituan has evolved beyond food delivery to meet a wider spectrum of consumer needs, leveraging its vast merchant network and extensive product offerings.
The partnership has emerged as part of Walmart China's strategic reorientation. In September 2024, the company divested its stake in Dada Nexus to JD.com.
Reuters reported that it then divested its stake in Chinese JD.com to raise $3.74bn.
Walmart China's retail presence extends beyond traditional stores with the establishment of 50 Sam's Club locations in the country.