Imagine a world where corporate procurement is as seamless as online shopping for consumers. Walmart is turning this vision into reality with the launch of Walmart Business , a dedicated platform aimed at streamlining bulk purchases for organizations—a direct challenge to Amazon’s dominance in the B2B e-commerce space.
Amazon pioneered this sector eight years ago with Amazon Business , catering to institutional buyers. Walmart’s entry signals intensified competition, with the retail giant positioning its platform as a more intuitive solution. "Walmart Business consolidates products in a way that simplifies replenishment for organizational needs," the company stated in its announcement last Friday.
Enterprise-Focused Features
The new platform introduces several tailored functionalities. Organizations can create multi-user accounts supporting up to five team members, enabling collaborative purchasing with shared payment methods, order histories, and approval workflows. Eligible entities may also enroll in Walmart’s Tax Exemption Program (WTEP) , automating tax deductions during checkout to reduce operational costs.
To build its marketplace, Walmart began onboarding third-party sellers last October while offering a 90-day free trial of its Walmart Business+ membership—a strategy mirroring Amazon’s Prime Business model designed to foster long-term engagement.
Strategic Expansion
With over 100,000 curated items spanning office supplies, facility maintenance products, electronics, and foodservice inventory, Walmart aims to create a comprehensive procurement ecosystem. "We’re committed to helping small businesses and nonprofits navigate operational challenges by saving time, money, and effort," a company representative noted.
While Amazon maintains first-mover advantage, Walmart leverages its established supply chain and brand recognition to disrupt the sector. For corporate buyers, this rivalry promises greater choice, competitive pricing, and enhanced purchasing efficiency.
The move underscores the growing potential of B2B digital procurement as organizations increasingly prioritize streamlined purchasing solutions. Walmart’s foray may accelerate industry-wide innovation, potentially heralding a new era in enterprise commerce.