Amazon and Walmart are intensifying their competition to deliver products to U.S. shoppers at ever-faster speeds, investing heavily in logistics and technology to expand their same-day and even ultra-fast delivery capabilities. While many smaller retailers are opting for slower, cost-effective shipping, these giants are leveraging their vast networks—Amazon through fulfillment centers and Walmart by shipping directly from stores and utilizing advanced geospatial technology.
Walmart now reaches 93% of U.S. households with same-day delivery and aims to increase this to 95% by year’s end, partly by dividing coverage areas into hexagonal grids that use real-time data to optimize reach. The company is also piloting “ultra-fast delivery” services, targeting deliveries in 30 minutes or less, and expanding drone delivery options, having already completed 120,000 drone deliveries.
Key takeaways:
- Walmart and Amazon are rapidly expanding ultra-fast and same-day delivery, using advanced logistics and technology.
- Walmart’s new geospatial tech and store network allow it to reach nearly all U.S. households, with plans for 30-minute deliveries and increased drone use.
- Amazon continues to grow its regional fulfillment network and drone operations, maintaining its leadership in delivery speed and volume.
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