The retail giant Walmart has quietly emerged as a dominant force in global e-commerce, surpassing even Amazon during this year's Black Friday sales. This remarkable achievement stems from strategic acquisitions, innovative membership programs, and a comprehensive digital transformation.
Three Distinct Account Types for Different Business Needs
Walmart's marketplace currently offers three primary account types, each with unique characteristics:
- MP (Marketplace) Accounts: Featuring lower entry barriers, these accounts are ideal for sellers new to Walmart's platform. However, they operate under stricter management policies and face higher suspension risks.
- DSV (Drop Ship Vendor) Accounts: Functioning similarly to Amazon's VC stores, these supplier accounts offer greater visibility and pricing flexibility compared to MP accounts.
- 1P Accounts: Representing the pinnacle of partnership, these accounts not only facilitate online sales but also provide access to Walmart's physical retail network, offering unparalleled market reach.
Why DSV and 1P Accounts Offer Superior Brand Opportunities
For brands seeking international expansion, DSV and 1P accounts provide several strategic advantages:
- Enhanced consumer trust through Walmart's direct procurement and fulfillment
- Premium product placement in promotional campaigns and homepage features
- Dynamic pricing capabilities to optimize profitability
- Comprehensive customer service support including returns management
A Less Saturated Marketplace with Significant Growth Potential
With approximately 150,000 active sellers compared to Amazon's 6.3 million, Walmart's marketplace presents a relatively untapped opportunity. The platform's lower concentration of Chinese sellers creates favorable conditions for early adopters to establish market presence.
WFS Logistics: Accelerating Delivery Performance
Walmart's fulfillment service (WFS) leverages the company's extensive supply chain network to guarantee two-day delivery. The program's innovative return system, allowing customers to process returns at nearby Walmart stores, significantly enhances buyer experience while increasing seller visibility.
Streamlined Onboarding Process
The platform has simplified its seller registration by replacing the "Request to Sell" option with a more accessible "Join Marketplace" approach. New applicants now only need to complete business verification, provide payment details, and submit shipping information. Typical approval timelines range between two to three weeks following document submission.
Navigating DSV/1P Account Requirements
Unlike standard accounts, DSV and 1P partnerships typically operate through invitation-only access. While awaiting official outreach remains one approach, qualified manufacturers and established cross-border sellers may explore alternative pathways through specialized e-commerce service providers.
As Walmart continues refining its platform infrastructure and expanding support for international suppliers, its e-commerce ecosystem presents compelling opportunities for brands pursuing global expansion strategies.