Walmart says fast delivery is no longer a bonus; it’s becoming a customer expectation. During its Q3 2026 earnings call last week, the company reported that about 35 percent of its U.S. digital orders fulfilled from stores were delivered in under three hours, and its fastest delivery channel is now hitting under one hour.
Executives said “delivery speed matters, and we’re delivering faster than ever,” pointing to the growing role of store-fulfilled orders and automation in their supply chain. Sam’s Club has now seen four straight quarters of triple-digit delivery growth, which the company views as a sign that shoppers are willing to lean into faster delivery when it’s available.
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Walmart says its store network gives it an edge. Thousands of locations double as mini-fulfillment hubs, keeping inventory close to customers and cutting travel time. The company also said more than half of its e-commerce fulfillment volume is now automated, helping lower shipping costs while improving speed.
Earlier this year, Walmart reported that store-fulfilled delivery is now a key driver of e-commerce growth, especially in the under-three-hour and sub-one-hour windows.
Walmart says its approach is working. Executives noted that when retailers combine value, convenience, and consistent execution, “customers are willing to give their business to those companies.”
