Getting US Products on the Shelves
I spent the day at the Walmart headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas. While it was pouring outside, the Reshoring Institute plus 2000 suppliers and state representatives participated in the 2015 US Manufacturing Summit and Supplier Academy. The academy was a series of sessions focused on helping potential suppliers navigate the Walmart buying processes; including a Big Data look at who Walmart’s customers are, US Manufacturing trends, Doing Business with Walmart, Working with Governments and more.
These sessions gave us the tips and tricks it takes to be successful and cleared up several myths. Not ready to distribute to over 4000 stores? Not a problem, you can stay local or try test markets and ramp up. Not sure you are compliant? Not a problem, their team will help! It was obvious today that Walmart wants to demystify the process and help suppliers.
Right off the main lobby is a hallway they call Product Row, it has several meeting rooms where buyers meet with potential suppliers to hear their pitch, see their products and determine the next steps. The hallway was electric with energy and excitement as suppliers waited for their meetings with Walmart buyers. I couldn’t help but get excited for everyone and wish them well.
The Reshoring Institute doesn’t have a product to put on shelves but we do assist other companies Reshore production and get products on the shelves. Between our Reshoring Guidebook, our library and our knowledge of the Walmart process we are in the position to help Walmart suppliers. If you are interested in more information contact us.
