Next Big Thing: Walmart and Uber

The nation's largest retailer continues to beef up its defenses against Amazon.

Walmart is expanding its online grocery delivery pilot via Uber to Orlando and Dallas. The pilot is currently ongoing in Phoenix and Tampa, Fla. (The chain also runs its own grocery delivery service in Denver and San Jose, California.) Walmart announced the expansion just days prior to a scheduled vote by Whole Foods Market's shareholders on its pending acquisition by Amazon.

"We’ve been testing delivery in a number of ways for a while now in key markets across the country," said Mike Turner, VP, eCommerce operations, Walmart, in a blog on the company's website. "In some areas, we’re trying general merchandise deliveries led by associates. In others, we’re testing grocery delivery using Walmart trucks and drivers. We’re working hard to find a way to get you fresh, quality groceries all while keeping a little more time on your calendar.

Under the pilot with Uber, after the customer's order is prepared, an Uber driver comes to the appropriate Walmart store, picks up the order and takes it directly to the customer’s location. 

In addition its grocery delivery pilots, Walmart offers customers the ability to pick up online grocery orders at some 900 of its stores.