Walmart testing concepts in Arkansas incubator store

• February 07, 2022

“In today’s omnichannel world, customers still want to experience – touch, feel and try – items,” said Alvis Washington, VP, marketing – store design, innovation and experience. “We’re using powerful design elements to show off amazing products that wow our customers, and when they see the value, they are proud of their choice and purchase.”

Key elements of the test presentations include:

Brands in focus: Walmart has created modified store-in-store formats for Gap Home, Queer Eye furniture and décor and Reebok athleisure, among others. National housewares brands are signed prominently in the kitchen department. Baby department displays showcase items needed to create a nursery. The beauty area highlights new and trending items, including men’s grooming tools.

Activated corners: Displays in certain departments will allow consumers to “touch, feel and become part of the space, allowing them to discover all that we have to offer,” Washington said. The home department may feature a living room or a bedroom vignette that invites shoppers to handle throw pillows, blankets and other items. They can either purchase on site or order online for delivery.

Digital touchpoints: In addition to elevated displays, the store has strategically placed QR codes and digital screens to communicate is range of products and services. In the pet department, shoppers can scan a QR codes to see a wider range of dog bed options, get information on Walmart’s pet insurance program or order items for delivery.

The new features are a extension of a store redesign program the company announced last year. Elements of 2021’s phase one resets have been rolled out to nearly 1,000 units.

The announcement of the new merchandise tests is posted on Walmart’s site and includes a video spotlighting the test features.