Wal-Mart Changes its Name to Reflect Focus on Digital

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is taking the "Stores" out of its name. MarketWatch reports the big-box retailer will shorten its legal name to Walmart Inc. The move highlights Wal-Mart's message that it is more than just large storefronts, while also showing a commitment to its digital business. “While our legal name is used in a limited number of places, we felt it was best to have a name that was consistent with the idea that you can shop with us however you like as a customer,'' Doug McMillon, Wal-Mart's president and CEO, said in a statement. "As time goes on, customers will increasingly just think of and see one Wal-Mart.”

Total Retail's Take: Under Doug McMillion's leadership, Wal-Mart has worked hard to shed its image as being just a brick-and-mortar store. This small but telling name change is yet another step in that process. Highlighted by its acquisition of Jet.com, Wal-Mart has positioned itself has a strong e-commerce player. In fact, McMillon said at a recent investor community meeting that Wal-Mart foresees U.S. revenue from online purchases growing by 40 percent in 2019. This accelerated growth has caught the attention of the leader in the e-commerce space, Amazon.com, and has set the stage for a prolonged battle between the two retail titans.