Walmart’s AI Ambitions for 2026
Mega-retailer Walmart (NASDAQ: WMT) aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) by 2026, with plans that include smarter product recommendations, automatic household item replenishments, and direct purchases via chatbots. During the ICR Conference, Daniel Danker, Executive Vice President of AI Acceleration, stated that 2026 will mark a transformation in how Walmart addresses customer needs through AI.
To enhance its shopping experience, Walmart has partnered with OpenAI and Google. Initiatives include allowing instant checkout via ChatGPT and integrating Walmart products into Google’s Gemini search responses. While the impact of these AI integrations on revenue remains to be seen, Walmart is positioning itself as a leader in AI within the retail sector. Analysts project Walmart’s earnings per share to grow by 12% for fiscal 2027, although revenue growth is expected to be under 5%.
