Walmart Enhances Immersive Commerce Experiences

Deloitte highlighted the evolving consumer landscape in the GCC at MRF 2024, noting that Middle Eastern consumers are cautious yet confident, with a 10% year-over-year growth in retail purchases despite inflation. Key trends include increased spending on food, fashion, personal care, and hospitality, with a shift towards personalization and cross-border commerce. Retailers, including Walmart, are adapting to younger consumers' preferences by exploring immersive commerce, combining VR with shopping experiences, although initial efforts like 'Walmart Land' faced mixed reactions. Ufit's new price-marked packs aim to attract new shoppers in the wholesale and convenience sectors, reflecting a strategic response to market demands. The overarching theme is a push for experiential engagement and leveraging technology in retail to meet consumer expectations. As the market continues to evolve, retailers must remain agile and responsive to maintain profitability and growth.