Walmart’s Text to Shop mobile feature raises the bar on grocery convenience

Walmart’s Text to Shop feature allows customers to add items to their online shopping basket via text message.

The feature is connected to the customer’s Walmart account, allowing them to drop a simple text message with the name of an item they need – for example, ‘bread’ – which is then automatically added to their e-commerce cart.

The specific brand and type added to the cart is based on the customer’s past purchases, with the option to swap it or change the quantity later in the app. Users can also arrange a delivery or pick-up time and check out via text or in the app. Having tested the feature extensively throughout 2021, the US retail giant is rolling out the free service for iOS and Android users, bringing the feature to a mainstream audience.

With mobile commerce set to account for 43% of all online purchases by 2024 and the average American checking their phone 344 times a day, according to a 2022 Shopify report, retailers should look to use mobile to save customers time. The service brings an extra level of convenience for time-stretched customers, while also offering another avenue for them to engage with the retailer via mobile and creating a seamless flow between online and physical shopping.

11/01/2023 North America