Global: Walmart is rapidly expanding AI and automated technologies across its supply chain from the Americas to Asia, enhancing inventory management, delivery efficiency, and customer experience, while advancing sustainability with drone deliveries and strategic tech partnerships.
Walmart is significantly expanding its deployment of artificial intelligence and automated technologies across its global supply chain, aiming to enhance efficiency and responsiveness from North and South America to Southeast Asia. According to a July 17 company release, the retail giant has integrated predictive AI systems in locations such as Coyol, Costa Rica, where fresh produce is sorted and delivery routes optimised to preserve perishables. In Mexico City, AI-powered “self-healing inventory” systems dynamically reroute products away from warehouses experiencing overstock to those in need, thereby streamlining stock levels and improving availability.
The retailer’s efforts extend beyond logistics optimisation to customer-focused enhancements. Walmart International’s chief technology officer, Vinod Bidarkoppa, articulated the drive towards smarter, real-time decision-making that not only speeds up processes but also frees associates to better serve customers. In Calgary, Alberta, sophisticated AI tools monitor and flag anomalies in orders, ensuring more accurate and timely fulfilment. The company also employs generative AI to analyse social media and sales data, tailoring product assortments to specific regional preferences. Meanwhile, agentic AI empowers store employees to analyze shipment details on the spot and detect if deliveries are short any items, facilitating prompt resolution.
These initiatives complement Walmart’s broader strategy to modernise its supply chain and e-commerce capabilities. In July 2024, Walmart announced plans for five new automated distribution centres focused on fresh food fulfilment to grow its online grocery business in the United States. By June 2025, Walmart expanded its drone delivery service to 100 additional stores across southern U.S. cities including Houston, Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta, and Charlotte, in partnership with Wing, an FAA-authorised drone provider. This electric-powered drone delivery notably reduces emissions by approximately 94%, aligning with Walmart’s sustainability commitments while increasing delivery speed.
In addition to expanding AI capabilities internally, Walmart has also taken significant steps in technology partnerships and acquisitions. Earlier in 2025, the company sold its robotics business to Symbotic for $200 million, a move which is paired with a partnership focusing on deploying AI-enabled robotics in Walmart’s pickup and delivery centres. This strategic decision aims to accelerate Walmart’s automation efforts by leveraging Symbotic’s specialized expertise.
Furthermore, Walmart Commerce Technologies recently launched an AI-powered logistics product called Route Optimization. This software-as-a-service offering helps optimise delivery routes, trailer packing efficiency, and miles travelled. So far, the technology has enabled Walmart and its partners to cut CO₂ emissions by 94 million pounds and avoid 30 million unnecessary miles on the road, demonstrating the environmental as well as operational benefits of its AI investments.
Complementing these backend transformations, Walmart is also ushering in AI-powered “super agents” aimed at bolstering its e-commerce operations. According to Reuters, these advanced AI systems serve customers, employees, suppliers, and developers alike, with the overarching goal of driving Walmart’s ambition for half of its future sales to come from online channels within five years. This reflects Walmart’s recognition of the rapidly evolving retail landscape and its intent to harness AI to maintain its competitive edge.
Taken together, Walmart’s comprehensive approach—spanning predictive analytics, autonomous inventory management, AI-driven customer insights, drone delivery, and strategic partnerships—highlights the retailer’s commitment to scaling AI and automation globally. While these technologies promise to improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance customer satisfaction, the company’s long-term success will depend on effectively integrating these tools with human expertise and continuously adapting to shifting market demands.
Source: Noah Wire Services
