Bentonville, Arkansas – This week, Walmart disclosed its plans for the majority of its stores to be automated by 2027.
Walmart’s expansion plan and “next-generation supply chain” were described in a statement. On “leveraging a cutting-edge integrated supply chain network to deliver a leading omnichannel experience globally,” specifics were provided.
According to Walmart, by the end of 2026, the goal is for 55% of fulfillment centers to “move through automated facilities” and 65% of stores to be served by automation.
The business argues that this is advantageous for human employment since automated stores will generate more roles with higher compensation that would require less physical labor.
As new roles are developed, Walmart claimed that automating stores would retain or “even [increase] its number of associates.”