BTN News: Walmart, the undisputed giant in the world of retail, is shaking things up in a big way. In a strategic shift to enhance its food court offerings and attract a diverse customer base, Walmart has started phasing out long-standing partnerships with fast-food behemoths like McDonald’s. Instead, it is bringing in fresh and innovative food brands, including Knuckies Hoagies and Alumni Cookie Dough. This move marks a significant pivot as Walmart aims to redefine its in-store dining experience. With exciting new partnerships and exclusive membership perks, like a 25% discount on Burger King orders for Walmart+ members, Walmart is making it clear—it’s all about convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Walmart’s Changing Landscape: A New Food Era Begins
For decades, McDonald’s has been a staple inside Walmart stores, but that chapter is coming to a close. Since 2021, McDonald’s has been systematically closing its outlets within Walmart, leaving only about 150 locations of the original 1,000 still operating. This major shift has opened the door for new food vendors to step in and serve Walmart shoppers with a fresh take on fast dining.
Knuckies Hoagies: The Rising Star in Walmart’s Food Courts
Enter Knuckies Hoagies, a relatively young yet fast-growing player in the American fast-food scene. Founded in 2019 in Milton, Georgia, Knuckies Hoagies is already making waves with its specialty sandwiches and freshly prepared hoagies. It has been recognized in the QSR 40/40 list of 2023 as one of the most popular restaurants in the U.S. with fewer than 40 locations. Now, Knuckies is expanding quickly inside Walmart stores, with 14 locations already open across six states, including Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. This new partnership aims to capitalize on Knuckies’ rapid growth and Walmart’s massive customer footfall.
Alumni Cookie Dough: A Sweet Deal for Walmart Shoppers
In addition to Knuckies Hoagies, Walmart is adding Alumni Cookie Dough to its food court lineup. Known for its edible cookie dough and creative dessert offerings, Alumni Cookie Dough is another innovative option aimed at attracting customers looking for a unique treat. The agreement allows Alumni Cookie Dough to set up shop alongside Knuckies in select Walmart locations, offering shoppers a sweet addition to their in-store experience.
Expanding Choices with Mr. Gatti’s Pizza
The innovation doesn’t stop there. Earlier this year, Walmart also entered into a partnership with Texas-based Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, bringing more than 90 of its pizza outlets into Walmart stores. Mr. Gatti’s offers a variety of pizza styles and has become a popular choice for families looking for quick, quality meals while shopping. This addition complements Walmart’s growing array of food choices aimed at satisfying diverse tastes and preferences.
Exclusive Member Benefits: Walmart+ Teams Up with Burger King
Walmart’s expansion into new dining options is further supported by a unique collaboration with Burger King. For members of Walmart+, this means exclusive benefits that provide both value and convenience. Members now receive a 25% discount on all digital orders from Burger King every day. Additionally, starting in September, Walmart+ members can enjoy a free flame-grilled Whopper every three months with any purchase. This move is designed to align with the lifestyles of busy Americans, offering a practical solution for saving time and money while catering to popular fast-food preferences.
Why These Changes Matter: The Strategic Move to Capture New Customers
Walmart’s recent partnerships and food court revamps are part of a broader strategy to meet the evolving needs of its customers. With Americans eating out more frequently, particularly at fast-food outlets, Walmart aims to be the go-to destination that offers not just groceries but also a diverse array of quick dining options. By bringing in popular and emerging brands, Walmart is positioning itself to attract a wider demographic, from young families to on-the-go professionals.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Walmart’s Retail Evolution
Walmart’s recent moves underscore its commitment to providing more than just a place to shop. By revamping its food court offerings with new and dynamic partners like Knuckies Hoagies, Alumni Cookie Dough, and Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, while also offering exclusive deals through Walmart+ and Burger King, Walmart is clearly focused on creating a holistic, customer-centric shopping experience. These changes promise to redefine the role of Walmart stores in American retail, making them a hub for both shopping and dining convenience.
