Wal-Mart Launching Endless Aisle Tests
Several Wal-Mart stores in Texas are testing touchscreens in the toy aisle that allow shoppers to browse inventory that's available to order beyond what the store currently has in stock. In addition, the screens can suggest items for shoppers, guiding them to best-selling products based on a description of who the toy is for. Customers can order out-of-stock items for delivery to their homes. Also, Wal-Mart is testing devices with its Scan and Go technology and eliminated most of its full-service checkouts at these pilot stores.
Total Retail’s Take: The addition of the touchscreen could help Wal-Mart overcome common inventory management issues that retailers face when implementing omnichannel strategies. Despite the benefits omnichannel can deliver, many retailers struggle to match online and in-store inventory, which often results in out-of-stocks. With a convenient endless aisle solution, customers can easily order an out-of-stock toy on the spot and have it delivered to their home. The shopping assistance feature may also generate more sales by providing customers with confidence in purchases they're likely making for someone else. This is just one in a string of recent moves by Wal-Mart to improve its online and in-store experiences.
