Walmart Unveils New AI Platform to Transform Supplier Data Analytics

Walmart Unveils New AI Platform to Transform Supplier Data Analytics

Walmart is rolling out innovative AI-powered tools designed to help suppliers better understand customer data and make smarter business decisions. The retail giant announced these new features for Scintilla, its data platform for suppliers and merchants, at its Inspire conference in Arkansas this week.

The new AI capabilities include three key tools launching over the next year. A conversational AI assistant, available early 2026, will help suppliers understand complex data metrics and how to apply them to business decisions. This tool will explain what specific metrics mean, how they're calculated, and how suppliers can use them effectively.

Key Features Coming to Walmart's Supplier Platform

• AI Research Summaries: Available by end of 2025, these will automatically analyze customer survey data from the Walmart Customer Spark Community, saving suppliers time on data analysis
• Enhanced Marketing Recommendations: AI will continuously monitor customer shopping behaviors and suggest targeted marketing strategies through the Walmart Connect retail media network
• Custom Audience Targeting: Brands can target specific customer segments based on shopping patterns, like reaching health-conscious consumers through their natural food purchases

Mark Hardy, head of Walmart Data Ventures, emphasized the shift from traditional operational metrics to customer-focused analytics. "We need to always start with a customer, not start with our sales and operational metrics," Hardy explained.

Impact on Retail Media Strategy

According to retail media analyst Andrew Lipsman of Media, Ads + Commerce, these AI tools reflect a broader industry trend toward democratizing data access. The timing is particularly strategic as Walmart Connect expands into CTV advertising following the Vizio acquisition.

These developments could significantly impact how suppliers approach customer targeting and campaign optimization, making sophisticated data analysis accessible to businesses of all sizes.