Walmart's latest in-store technology move is a digital shelf label system that lights up to help shoppers and employees find products. The rollout is part of a wider modernization effort that includes AI-powered shopping assistants, automated supply chains, radio frequency identification tags, and billions of dollars in store upgrades.
On a recent earnings call, Walmart CEO John Furner said the company is seeing significant returns on its technology strategies, adding that "AI will improve nearly every part of our business." But the digital labels have drawn backlash over fears of dynamic pricing and privacy. In an open letter, Furner said Walmart will continue to "price the product, not the person," and that customer income, shopping history, or urgency will not change prices.
Some state legislatures, including New Jersey's, have passed measures restricting digital shelf labels. Walmart, which has the feature in all of its New Jersey stores, called the policy an "overreaction," saying the labels are simply a modern way to display prices. The company has also invested in drone delivery, available in select states like Texas and Florida.
Cathey, who has been in his role for nearly a year, said the goal is to give store associates more time to meet individual customer needs. He also argued that physical retail and e-commerce are no longer separate: "It's not one or the other anymore. It's both."