Walmart deploys real-time AI and automation across global supply chain
Walmart is re-engineering its global supply chain in an effort to enable faster, more accurate operations at scale.
The Walmart global supply chain is being reengineered with real-time AI and automation. Intelligent systems that have been proven in the U.S. are being rolled out globally and are already live across markets including Costa Rica, Mexico and Canada supporting activities such as predicting demand, rerouting inventory and reducing waste.
In early deployments, Walmart reports that projects which once took quarters now happens in weeks since they can be built using proven components, enabling engineers to spend more time layering in custom capabilities like agentic AI for dynamic decision-making,
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"At this scale, the only way to move faster is to move smarter," said Vinod Bidarkoppa, executive VP and CTO, Walmart International. "From self-healing inventory to agentic AI, we’re creating systems that turn real-time signals into real-time action, freeing up associates and delivering for customers."
Examples of Walmart’s global supply chain innovation include:
Coyol, Costa Rica
At Walmart’s perishable distribution center in Coyol, Costa Rica, predictive warehouse and transportation management systems map the best delivery routes for pineapples, greens and root vegetable and align orders to store demand to put the day’s plan in motion by the time the first associate arrives. Results include fresher food, fewer delays and less manual labor.
Calgary, Alberta
In Canada, warehouse and delivery route systems coordinate orders, flag anomalies and optimize outbound flow. Every process is backed by automation that adapts in real time, leading to fewer fulfillment errors, faster shipping and a more seamless last-mile experience.
Mexico City
In Mexico City, self-healing inventory automatically reroute supply to the stores that need it most if overstocks appear, before the excess becomes waste. This technology has already saved Walmart more than $55 million.
"Our global supply chain is one of the most important enablers of the customer experience at Walmart,” said Tim Simmons, senior VP and chief product officer, Walmart International. "We’re building more adaptive, intelligent and AI-enabled platforms, designed not only to scale quickly, but to serve real needs for customers and associates in every market."
Based in Bentonville, Ark., Walmart Inc. operates more than 10,750 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries.
