What: Walmart will equip 2,300 stores with digital shelf labels, allowing the update of prices in an entire store in just 2 mn.

Why it is important: Real time pricing is around the corner.

Walmart is set to implement digital shelf labels (DSLs) in 2,300 of its stores by 2026, a move that will cover half of its store network. This technology, developed by Vusion Group, allows for rapid price updates on over 120,000 products within two minutes using the Me@Walmart app. In contrast, the manual update of traditional paper labels typically takes two full days each week. The introduction of DSLs at Walmart has been hailed as a transformative step by Daniela Boscan, the food and consumable team lead at Walmart’s Texas location, emphasizing its efficiency, customer satisfaction, and sustainability benefits in reducing operational waste.

The push for digital labeling reflects a broader trend in the U.S. retail sector, which has lagged behind Europe in adopting such technologies. The electronic shelf label market is growing rapidly, projected to increase from $1.6 billion in 2023 to $4.4 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%. This technology not only streamlines operations but also supports dynamic pricing strategies that are crucial in the current inflationary climate. Retailers using DSLs can adjust prices more frequently and economically, gaining a competitive advantage, enhancing customer loyalty, and improving market share.

Experts advocate for the widespread adoption of DSLs among retailers, especially in price-sensitive sectors like groceries. The technology's benefits extend beyond pricing to improved stock management and order fulfillment processes, making it a strategic investment for leading retailers aiming to stay competitive.

Walmart to equip half of its store fleet with digital price tags within 2026