Walmart and Advance Auto Parts have announced “a comprehensive, strategic partnership that will create an automotive specialty store on Walmart.com.”
Expected to begin rolling out in the first half of 2019, “the new omnichannel shopping experience” will give Walmart.com shoppers access to Advance’s portfolio of aftermarket automotive parts, accessories and maintenance items, according to the companies.
‘“This year, we’ve been incredibly focused on building our offering on Walmart.com to ensure we have the specialty assortment that our customers are looking for,” said Phillip Oaks, vice president and group general manager, retail merchandising, Walmart eCommerce. “In line with this focus, we are thrilled to be partnering with Advance, which will bring us its industry-leading automotive product assortment and know-how. This comprehensive partnership will enhance almost every aspect of the automotive customer shopping experience – from the product offering online to fulfillment capabilities.”
The new specialty store will complement Walmart’s automotive offering of common parts and accessories online and in stores, including an extensive assortment of tire, lube and battery services in more than 2,500 Walmart Auto Care Centers across the country. Launching in phases over the coming year, the specialty store also will feature a variety of Advance’s value-added content and product information.
The companies said they plan “to explore new fulfillment options that will bring customers unparalleled convenience, including home delivery, same-day pickup in a Walmart or Advance store and installation of some parts.”
“This is an exciting partnership for both Advance and Walmart customers,” said Tom Greco, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts. “At Advance, we are absolutely committed to building a best-in-class omnichannel experience and Walmart is an undisputed omnichannel leader. Partnering with Walmart enables us to share our extensive product offering and trusted advice with an increased number of do-it-yourself customers and supports our long-term strategic objectives.”
