Walmart Debuts 'Auto Care Centers of the Future'
Walmart is piloting a new store experience: “Auto Care Centers (ACCs) of the Future,” the first of which is now open in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The initiative is part of the retailer’s broader push to integrate digital tools with in-store services.
The reimagined in-store center includes dedicated self-checkout kiosks as well as screens throughout the small space, which promote informational messages, Walmart+ members savings and other promotional materials.
QR codes are scattered throughout the space on both digital screens and traditional signage, often directing customers to an expanded online assortment of products that can be installed in as soon as two days. One sign even highlights select brands and features a QR code inviting shoppers to search the make and model of their vehicle for more options online.
The experience also features a contactless service model that allows customers to schedule appointments, check in and track the progress of their vehicle through the Walmart app. Customers can drop keys into an app-assigned locker and receive live updates on service status, then retrieve their vehicle and complete payment once the work is finished.
The ACCs of the Future aim to streamline services such as tire installation and oil changes while expanding the retailer’s digital tire assortment. Walmart is continually evolving its app and noted that online appointment scheduling has already saved customers over 6.6 million hours in the past two years, according to a media release.
Last year, Walmart expanded its installation-eligible digital tire assortment to include Walmart Marketplace tires, allowing customers to shop a wider variety of tires online and ship them for installation at their local ACC.
Walmart has operated ACCs since 1979 and currently maintains locations in more than 2,500 Supercenters nationwide.
The new model represents a shift toward integrating mobile convenience and real-time updates with traditional in-store service.
Why It Matters for Shopper Marketers
For shopper marketers, the new ACCs illustrate how Walmart is blending digital and physical touchpoints to enhance convenience and engagement. The app-driven model can gather data on customer behaviors and preferences, which could inform promotions, messaging and cross-category marketing efforts.
