Walmart, the world's largest retailer, is renowned for its expansive network of hypermarkets and department stores. However, its eCommerce growth in recent years demonstrates the company's ability to adapt to digital trends and consumer preferences. Ranked among the top online grocery stores in the United States and boasting a highly rated shopping app, Walmart continues to expand its digital footprint globally.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of Walmart's eCommerce performance from 2019 through 2025, highlighting key growth trends and insights.
Walmart Global eCommerce Revenue (2019–2025)
Year |
Sam’s Club |
Walmart International |
Walmart US |
Total |
---|---|---|---|---|
2019 | $2.7 billion | $6.7 billion | $15.7 billion | $25.1 billion |
2020 | $3.8 billion | $11.8 billion | $24.1 billion | $39.7 billion |
2021 | $5.3 billion | $16.6 billion | $43.0 billion | $64.9 billion |
2022 | $6.9 billion | $18.5 billion | $47.8 billion | $73.2 billion |
2023 | $8.4 billion | $20.3 billion | $53.4 billion | $82.1 billion |
2024 | $10.2 billion | $23.4 billion | $60.2 billion | $93.8 billion |
2025 (est.) | $12.1 billion | $26.0 billion | $67.0 billion | $105.1 billion |
2019–2021: Pandemic-Fueled Growth
The years from 2019 to 2021 marked a period of unprecedented growth for Walmart’s eCommerce business. In 2019, Walmart’s online sales reached $25.1 billion, with most revenue driven by its US division. However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly boosted the company’s digital sales, as consumers pivoted to online shopping due to lockdowns and health concerns.
- 2020 Growth: Walmart's eCommerce revenue surged by 58.2% in 2020, reaching $39.7 billion. This increase was driven by the growing demand for online grocery services and Walmart's efficient curbside pickup system.
- 2021 Record Growth: In 2021, Walmart experienced its highest annual growth rate in recent history, with online sales rising by 63.5% to $64.9 billion. This growth can be attributed to:
- Increased reliance on online retail during prolonged lockdowns.
- Expansion of Walmart’s delivery services and partnerships with third-party platforms.
2022–2023: Stabilization and Sustained Expansion
As the world began to recover from the pandemic, Walmart's eCommerce growth rates decelerated, reflecting a return to in-store shopping and heightened competition in the digital retail space. Despite this slowdown, Walmart's online sales continued to climb:
- 2022: Walmart's eCommerce sales grew by 12.8%, reaching $73.2 billion. This growth was fueled by:
- Continued investments in technology to streamline online shopping.
- An expanded range of online grocery options.
- Growth in international markets, especially in regions like Canada, Mexico, and China.
- 2023: E-commerce sales increased by 12.2%, bringing total revenue to $82.1 billion. Walmart’s US division remained the primary driver, generating nearly two-thirds of the company’s total e-commerce revenue.
2024–2025: Expanding Market Leadership
Walmart’s digital transformation continued into 2024 and 2025, with significant investments in technology, logistics, and customer experience. The company’s strategy focused on integrating physical and digital channels to provide a seamless omnichannel shopping experience.
- 2024: Total eCommerce sales were estimated at $93.8 billion, representing a 14.2% increase from the previous year. Notable highlights include:
- A 22% rise in e-commerce sales from Walmart US and Sam’s Club.
- An 18% increase in Walmart International’s online revenues, driven by robust performance in emerging markets.
- 2025 (Projected): Walmart's eCommerce revenue is expected to surpass $105 billion, marking a milestone achievement. This growth is underpinned by:
- Continued expansion of Walmart’s fulfillment centers to ensure faster delivery.
- Enhanced user experience through AI-driven personalization on its shopping app.
- Greater adoption of Walmart+ subscriptions, which offer perks like free shipping and exclusive discounts.
eCommerce Revenue Breakdown by Division
In 2023, Walmart’s US division contributed the largest share of online sales, generating $53.4 billion—approximately 65% of the company’s total eCommerce revenue. The breakdown for 2024 and 2025 is projected to follow a similar trend:
- Walmart US: $67 billion projected for 2025, maintaining its dominance in online grocery and general merchandise.
- Walmart International: Expected to generate $26 billion in 2025, with strong growth in Asia and Latin America.
- Sam’s Club: Projected to contribute $12.1 billion in 2025, driven by membership renewals and exclusive online offerings.
Key Drivers of Walmart’s eCommerce Success
- Online Grocery Leadership: Walmart's extensive grocery network, combined with curbside pickup and delivery options, has solidified its position as a leader in online grocery sales.
- Technological Advancements: Walmart has invested heavily in AI and machine learning to enhance product recommendations, inventory management, and user experience.
- Omnichannel Strategy: Walmart’s integration of in-store and online shopping, including buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) options, has increased customer satisfaction and convenience.
- Walmart+: The subscription service continues to attract customers with free delivery, fuel discounts, and early access to sales.
- International Expansion: Walmart’s focus on growing its digital footprint in international markets has yielded strong returns, particularly in regions with rapidly increasing e-commerce adoption.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Walmart has experienced significant growth, it also faces challenges in maintaining its market leadership:
- Challenges:
- Increasing competition from Amazon, Target, and regional e-commerce players.
- Rising operational costs due to global supply chain disruptions and inflation.
- Balancing in-store and online investments without cannibalizing sales.
- Opportunities:
- Expanding its private-label offerings to cater to value-conscious consumers.
- Leveraging AI and robotics for faster order fulfillment and reduced costs.
- Capturing more market share in high-growth regions like India and Southeast Asia.
Walmart's eCommerce growth story from 2019 to 2025 reflects its resilience and adaptability in the rapidly evolving retail landscape. By continuously innovating and investing in technology, Walmart has transformed from a traditional brick-and-mortar giant into a formidable digital retailer.
As the company sets its sights on crossing the $100 billion mark in eCommerce revenue, Walmart's ability to integrate physical and digital experiences, capitalize on emerging markets, and respond to consumer demands will ensure its continued success in the years to come.