Walmart Expansion on Track, to Launch Branded Stores in South Africa

Walmart Inc. WMT benefits from the inherent strength of its highly diversified business model. The company's robust omnichannel strategy has increased traffic at both physical stores and digital platforms. 

In the latest update, the company intends to introduce its first branded stores in South Africa, later this year. This follows its first Growth Summit held in April, where suppliers from 12 countries across the continent showcased innovative, locally made, grown or assembled products. The new stores will offer affordable groceries alongside a varied selection of family, home and entertainment items, consisting of global brands, in spacious stores with convenience and friendly services.

With sites already under development, such stores are set to open before the year closes, with dates to be confirmed in October. The company will provide more details on store locations, hiring and community initiatives in the upcoming months. In addition, shoppers can enjoy digital capabilities as well.

Apparently, the aforesaid move highlights WMT’s commitment to offer best-quality, affordable merchandise to its customers. This strategic step will also boost the company’s overall sales and profits, going forward.

What’s More for Walmart?

Walmart has been benefiting from its robust omnichannel business. From investing in pioneering data analytics to expanding its digital presence and optimizing in-store operations, the company leaves no stone unturned. Impressive store proximity to customers has allowed Walmart to use its stores to fulfill e-commerce orders. 

The company has undertaken several initiatives to enhance e-commerce operations, including buyouts, alliances and improved delivery and payment systems. In the second quarter of fiscal 2026, Walmart’s Global e-commerce sales surged 25% as the digital mix increased across all segments. This upside can be attributed to store-fulfilled pickup and delivery services. The company witnessed a 15.3% increase in membership income globally. WMT’s global advertising business advanced 46%.

Over the past six months, shares of this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company have gained 16.9% compared with the industry’s 15.9% growth.

Key Stocks in Retail

Levi Strauss & Co. LEVI, designer and marketer of jeans, casual wear and related accessories, currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. 

The consensus estimate for Levi Strauss’ current financial-year EPS indicates growth of 4% from the year-ago figure. LEVI delivered an average earnings surprise of 25.9% in the trailing four quarters.

Genesco Inc. GCO operates as a retailer and wholesaler of footwear, apparel and accessories, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. GCO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 32.4%, on average.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Genesco’s current fiscal-year EPS and sales indicates growth of 66% and 1.7%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s reported figures.

Allbirds, Inc. BIRD, a lifestyle brand, currently has a Zacks Rank of 2. The company delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 20.7%, on average.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BIRD’s current financial-year EPS indicates growth of 18.3% from the year-ago figure. 

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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

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