Walmart looks to transform sourcing

Walmart is partnering with supply chain management provider Bamboo Rose to develop and implement a state-of-the-art enterprise sourcing platform.

The retail giant intends to use the new enterprise sourcing platform (ESP) to bring together disparate systems while improving efficiencies with its suppliers around the world — and  maintaining low prices. 

With its single sourcing platform, Walmart hopes to create greater visibility across different teams in its Walmart and Sam’s Club banners, enabling employees to make more informed purchasing decisions on volume and cost, improving access of goods to other markets and potentially reducing waste in categories such as perishable goods.

"At Walmart, we're constantly looking for ways to improve our business so we can help our customers save money and live better,” said Daniel Berg, VP of product global sourcing at Walmart. “I'm thrilled to be able to work with Bamboo Rose to develop a brand-new ecosystem connecting our global teams with a single platform, empowering us to go beyond simply streamlining information. With this technology, we'll be able to engage with suppliers across multiple growth stages, expand global offerings and make more efficient decisions."

In addition, though the new ESP, Walmart will enable sourcing associates around the globe to more easily collaborate with buyers, product development teams and suppliers, with the goal of improving how it procures and imports goods for resale. 

"We believe retailers succeed when they collaborate internally and across supplier networks to provide openness and opportunities for collective growth,” said Mike Mattei, chief revenue officer at Bamboo Rose. “At Bamboo Rose, we deeply understand the challenges faced by our customers and we craft solutions that drive positive business outcomes for global retailers. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional value." 

Walmart enacts next-generation fulfillment and distribution

Walmart is in the process of deploying leading-edge technology across its supply chain. The retailer has expanded its reach to nearly 90% of the U.S. population with next- or two-day shipping, including marketplace items shipped by Walmart Fulfillment Services. These efforts are enhanced by its three new next-generation fulfillment centers (Joliet, Ill.; McCordsville, Ind.; and Lancaster, Tex.), which are now running.

Additionally, Walmart continues to rapidly expand the use of next-generation technology in its distribution centers. This year, over 15% of Walmart stores will receive merchandise from automated distribution centers, helping to get items off trucks and onto the sales floor faster and more efficiently.

In other developments, Walmart will have seven automated market fulfillment centers up and running by Thanksgiving. The centers, which are located within Walmart stores, stock thousands of the most sought-after items. 

Headquartered in Bentonville, Ark., Walmart Inc. operates more than 10,500 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries.