Walmart confirms it’s going to start testing its own version of Amazon Prime
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Walmart has confirmed it will begin testing its own version of Amazon Prime.
The news, first reported by Vox, was scarce on details, but a name has been selected for the service — Walmart+.
Notably, there was no mention of a potential price or what the service would include, but Vox did report the company may start testing the service at select locations as soon as March 2020.
Amazon Prime, launched in 2005, allowed members to pay a flat yearly or monthly fee to get free expedited shipping on eligible purchases.
The service eventually expanded to include access to the company’s streaming video and music services.
Prime members also now receive free same day delivery on select items plus access to digital books, magazines and newspapers, the premium Twitch video game streaming service, Audible originals, unlimited photo storage, upgraded rewards on a Prime branded credit card and more.
Walmart is reportedly looking to sell its Vudu streaming service (potentially to NBCUniversal) so it’s not clear if Walmart+ would include access to video content.
Meanwhile, Walmart has been heavily promoting its grocery delivery and pickup services.
There is currently a $98 yearly fee (or $12.95 a month) fee for unlimited grocery deliveries. Grocery pickup doesn’t have any fees, but does have a minimum order of $30.
Walmart+ could potentially include unlimited delivery or waive that $30 minimum — as well as additional benefits such as faster delivery times and more.
Another possibility is integration with Walmart Pay, the chain’s in house digital wallet solution, perhaps with added benefits or rewards for Walmart+ subscribers.
Walmart remains one of the major holdouts among national chains to not accept Apple Pay.