1. Walmart’s Prices Aren’t Always the Lowest
You might think Walmart is the ultimate low-price leader, but it’s not always the best deal. Sometimes local stores or online retailers like Amazon beat Walmart’s prices, especially when you factor in discounts, promotions, or shipping fees. So, don’t assume it’s always the lowest price, and shop around!
2. The ‘Great Value’ Brand Isn’t Always What It Seems
Walmart’s store brand, Great Value, offers affordable alternatives, but not all of these products are made the same. Some are just relabeled products from other brands, while others are produced by third-party manufacturers. In fact, some Great Value items might not be as high-quality as their name-brand counterparts, so you might want to check reviews before buying.
3. Walmart’s Bargain Bin Isn’t Always Bargain-Worthy
Those bargain bins are tempting, but they don’t always offer the best savings. Some of the items in the clearance section may actually be marked up just before they go on sale, so you could be paying more than you think. Always double-check prices to make sure you’re really getting a deal.
4. They Track Your Shopping Habits
Walmart uses your purchase data to create personalized offers, and if you have a Walmart+ account, they also track your buying behavior online. While this can result in helpful discounts, it also means your shopping preferences are being closely monitored. If you’re not comfortable with this, you can adjust your privacy settings, but it’s something worth being aware of.
5. Hidden Fees for Online Orders
Walmart’s website may have hidden fees that aren’t obvious until checkout. If you’re opting for a pickup or delivery service, you might face extra charges depending on the store’s location or if you haven’t spent enough for free delivery. These fees can add up, so always review your cart before completing the transaction.
6. The “Rollback” Discounts Aren’t Always Real
Walmart loves to advertise “Rollback” deals, but sometimes these discounts aren’t as good as they seem. Prices on certain items may be marked higher than usual just before the “Rollback” happens, so the discount looks more significant than it really is. A little research can help you identify if you’re actually saving money.
7. They’re Always Watching Their Competitors
Walmart is notorious for keeping an eye on its competitors’ prices, especially in areas where they face stiff competition. This allows them to adjust their prices and keep their shelves stocked with what’s trending in other stores. They’re not just lowering prices—they’re constantly adapting to what their rivals are doing.
8. Employee Wages Are Low for a Reason
While Walmart’s employees are often the backbone of the company, their wages are notoriously low. This is partly because the company operates on razor-thin profit margins. As a result, many Walmart employees rely on government assistance programs. This low-wage structure is a key reason the company has faced backlash over the years.
9. Limited Selection of Certain Products
Walmart may have tons of products, but when it comes to niche or specialty items, you might be disappointed. If you’re looking for something more unique or upscale, Walmart often carries just a basic version of what you’re after. You may have better luck at a specialty store or an online retailer.
10. They’ve Been Caught Greenwashing
While Walmart has made efforts to improve its sustainability practices, some of its claims about being eco-friendly don’t quite hold up. They’ve been accused of “greenwashing,” which is when a company gives a false impression of being environmentally conscious. Despite some positive steps, don’t assume every product labeled as “sustainable” is truly green.
11. Inconsistent Inventory Management
Walmart’s inventory system sometimes leaves a lot to be desired. While they have an efficient supply chain, their stock levels can be unpredictable. Items can be out of stock for weeks or come and go unexpectedly. This means you might have to make multiple trips or search online to find what you’re looking for.
12. Many Items Aren’t Made in the USA
Although Walmart promotes American-made goods, a lot of its products come from overseas. This includes everything from electronics to clothing, and many of the lower-priced items are sourced from countries with cheaper labor. So, if you’re looking for exclusively American-made products, Walmart may not always be the best place.
13. They Use “Psychological Pricing” to Get You to Spend More
Walmart often uses clever pricing strategies to encourage more spending. For example, prices might end in .88 instead of a round number because research shows consumers perceive these prices as lower than they actually are. It’s a subtle trick to get you to think you’re saving, even if you’re not.
14. The Power of the Walmart Brand Is Immense
Walmart wields a massive influence over suppliers and manufacturers. Because of its size, the company can dictate terms and prices, sometimes at the expense of smaller suppliers. This allows them to offer low prices, but it can also create ethical concerns, as manufacturers are pressured to meet Walmart’s demands.
