Amazon and Walmart are the two pillars of global retail. Walmart has a 30-year longer history, but now these biggest retailers are fighting for the same customers.
Walmart started as a grocery store. Amazon - as an online bookseller. Over the years the boundaries between stores have become blurred.
Having doubts which of these stores to start a business or make a purchase in? We compared these giants. The result is very interesting and we cannot wait to share it with you, so let’s go!
1. Innovation and digital growth 💡📱
Both brands continue to grow and have serious plans for the future. Each company improves where it differs from the other.
Amazon’s growing point - investments in the retail and groceries.
Walmart’s - expanding e-commerce.
Walmart invests in the development of a delivery service and expanding its product line in the Internet.
Amazon created mini-markets “Amazon Go” (self-service only). They are planning to expend this type of shop to airports and University campuses by 2021.
Sam’s Club at Walmart — Amazon Go mirror with its own version of technology.
Amazon currently has a lot more cool features for business, such as:
🔹 via Prime Wardrobe you could order and try on goods before paying;
🔹 Wide range of cloud apps - Amazon Web Services for B2B (it is Amazon's fastest growing and most profitable business line right now);
🔹 home consulting
2. Customer-oriented approach 🤝
Both of the companies have a desire to do their best for customers. Amazon's customer service is second to none. Digital technology and convenience have raised the bar for the entire industry. No wonder Amazon is called the leading customer service company.
3. The range 🛒🛍
Amazon offers more options for well-known brands, especially in clothing.
Walmart takes the upper hand in food.
4. Prices 💸🧾
Walmart has the lowest prices in general.
Amazon leads in some categories: kitchen appliances or household items.
The search for the cheapest product depends on the specific product.
5. Availability 👣🚘
Walmart dominates the physical space. If you are close to the store, you can get the product in just a few minutes. 90% of Americans live, at most, 15 km from a Walmart store.
There is even a function for pickup at the curb. You can order items online at Walmart and pick them up on the same day.
Amazon is an online leader. A great choice for those who do not need their products right away. Amazon Prime Now members can get free two-hour delivery. The company increases its retail outlets, but protects itself from competitors.
6. Logistics 🛫🚚
Amazon is a first-class logistics company. It has been building up its car and air fleet for years to offer customers one-day delivery or optimize the supply chain.
Walmart cannot compete with Amazon in this area yet.
7. Ecological aspect 🌿🌎☀️
Walmart eco-activism is more transparent. For example, their Project Gigaton aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by investing in reducing emissions through the whole supply chain.
Amazon recently published information about its carbon footprint. Environmental opacity has drawn criticism. At the same time, Amazon uses environmentally-friendly offices and solar energy.
Anyway, in the competition between Amazon and Walmart, the customer is the main winner. They get the best service and profits in the form of constant innovation; the two companies encourage each other to grow and develop.
So where should you start your business? That’s a big subject to discuss. Seriously speaking, TaxFreeCorp professionals will provide comprehensive advice for starting a business in the United States.