Walmart recently hosted its 12th annual Open Call event at its newly established headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas. The event brought together hundreds of entrepreneurs and small business owners from across the United States, including participants from 47 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. These business owners had the opportunity to pitch a wide array of products to Walmart buyers, hoping to secure shelf space in Walmart’s stores, Sam’s Club locations, or on Walmart.com.
The Open Call event has grown significantly over the years, serving as a key platform for U.S.-based small businesses to showcase their products to one of the largest retailers in the world. Entrepreneurs attending the event had the chance to present products ranging from flavored intimate wipes and liquid vitamins to probiotics and many other unique consumer goods. For these small business owners, gaining access to Walmart’s massive customer base represents a significant opportunity for growth and national exposure.
This year’s event featured an impressive 750 scheduled meetings between the entrepreneurs and Walmart buyers, creating countless opportunities for direct connections and potential partnerships. The Open Call has become an essential part of Walmart’s long-standing commitment to supporting U.S.-made products and fostering economic growth within local communities. Walmart’s dedication to sourcing and selling more American-made products has been a cornerstone of the company’s strategy, and the Open Call is a critical component of that mission.
Walmart buyers were not only interested in innovative consumer goods but also in products that align with current trends and customer demands, such as health and wellness products. Entrepreneurs had the chance to present items that cater to the growing interest in natural health solutions, such as vitamins, probiotics, and wellness-focused personal care items. These types of products are particularly well-suited for Walmart’s diverse and health-conscious customer base.
By offering a direct line of communication between small business owners and decision-makers at Walmart, the Open Call is more than just a pitch session. It’s an opportunity for entrepreneurs to receive valuable feedback, make industry connections, and navigate the complexities of bringing a product to retail shelves. For many of these small businesses, participating in the event could mark the beginning of a new chapter, helping them expand from local operations to national retail distribution.
In addition to showcasing U.S.-made products, Walmart’s Open Call also highlights the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The event encourages participation from underrepresented entrepreneurs, including women, people of color, and veteran-owned businesses. This focus on diversity not only supports a broader range of products but also reflects the values of the retailer’s vast customer base.
The event underscores the growing importance of direct engagement between large retailers and small businesses, especially as consumers continue to demand more unique and locally sourced products. As Walmart continues to expand its efforts to promote U.S.-manufactured goods, the Open Call serves as a symbol of the company’s ongoing role in empowering small businesses, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth across the nation.
Through events like the Open Call, Walmart is shaping the future of retail by connecting entrepreneurs with the opportunities they need to succeed. For many small business owners, the Open Call represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get their products in front of millions of consumers, and it demonstrates Walmart’s continued commitment to providing a platform for innovation and U.S.-based manufacturing.
