Walmart launches JetBlack Order-by-Text service to compete Amazon Prime

Walmart has launched a new service for its customers, they can now place the order for same day service using text message, another initiative to streamline its e-commerce processes and offer its customers speedy solutions as well as compete to its arch-rival Amazon Inc.

The new service by Walmart dubbed “Jetblack” will allow shoppers to place their orders on Walmart.com and even on the other websites, a part of Walmart’s internal startup incubator, Store No. 8.

JetBlack service is currently available only in parts of New York City, the company plans to roll it out later across the United States. Jenny Fleiss, co-founder and CEO of Jetblack said, “The goal is to develop game-changer technologies which will revolutionize the way people shop.”

Fleiss also co-founded famous online fashion website Rent The Runway. Fleiss said one of the revolutionizing technologies in a retail environment is the ability to provide customers with personalized shopping experience via text messaging and online chat.”

The US retailer is stashing billions of dollars to construct its e-commerce business beyond the technological limits, the company has recently announced various partnerships with logistics companies in order to deliver the groceries. According to Reuters, two of the partnerships in a similar capacity with Uber and Lyft has been ended.

Jetblack is not free for customers, they will have to pay a monthly membership fee of $50, the membership, however, offers several benefits and money saving. The same-day and next-day deliveries are free of cost for the customer.

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Walmart would face the challenges running this service from already established services such as Amazon Prime and Prime Now.

Fleiss says customers who participated in the pilot were buying 10 items per week on average using Jetblack. Walmart’s service has a differentiation which includes the sourcing of everyday products from Walmart and Jet.com while allowing customers to order products from other rival retailers such as Sephora and local brands, she added.

Jetblack will also send text reminders to the customers if they are running out of the product they ordered. Artificially intelligent service beautifully curates product suggestions, she added.