So-called dark stores have been around for decades, and Walmart tested a similar format in its Bentonville online grocery pickup center between 2014 and 2023, before it closed.
Walmart is once again moving forward with testing online fulfillment centers – aka, dark stores that are not open to the public – to help with delivery from online orders. The dark stores are filled with the most commonly purchased online items. Dark stores will likely carry mostly grocery items for home delivery, according to retail insiders.
The retail giant confirmed it is testing the concept in Dallas and will soon do so again in Bentonville…