Walmart has engaged supply chain AI-enabled robotics technology developer Symbotic to “develop, build and deploy” an automated system for the American retail chain's accelerated pickup and delivery centres (APDs).

Under the deal, Symbotic will acquire Walmart’s Advanced Systems and Robotics business for USD200 million.

If performance criteria are met, Symbotic will receive USD520 for the automated system it develops with Walmart committing to deploying it at 400 APD centres over a multi-year period. Walmart also has an option to add additional APDs in coming years.

Symbotic chairman and CEO Rick Cohen says of the agreement: “This is a highly strategic transaction for Symbotic as we expand upon our long-term relationship with Walmart”.

“Symbotic has played a critical role in enabling Walmart to automate its vast supply chain since 2017 and is currently deploying its software and robotics platform across all 42 of Walmart’s regional distribution centres in the US,” Cohen adds.

Walmart’s store-fulfilled deliveries increased almost 50% year-on-year for Q3, surpassing a USD2.5 billion monthly run rate.

The deal is expected to be finalised in Q1 2025.