Walmart and its subsidiary Sam’s Club are implementing tap-to-pay options for customers, a move long anticipated by shoppers. These contactless payment methods, which include services like Apple Pay and Google Pay, will begin rolling out on August 24 at select locations and are expected to be available in all U.S. stores by the end of 2026. Walmart’s fuel stations are slated to receive the new payment option by mid-2027.
“We want customers and members to have choice in how they pay, so they can check out in the way that works best for them,” the company stated in a press release. The addition of tap-to-pay aims to provide a familiar and convenient checkout experience, allowing customers to use eligible contactless cards, phones, or smartwatches for purchases.
Previously, Walmart offered digital payment through Walmart Pay, which utilized QR codes within the Walmart app. Customers can also now add their Walmart and Sam’s Club cards to their digital wallets for contactless transactions. Sam’s Club members will continue to have the option to use Scan & Go, a self-checkout feature that allows shoppers to scan and pay for items as they shop.
The introduction of tap-to-pay was met with positive reactions from customers on social media. Many expressed excitement for the convenience of contactless payments, with some noting it as a reason they had previously avoided shopping at Walmart.
This payment expansion follows a period of slower sales growth for Walmart in the U.S., which reported its slowest growth in over six years for the second quarter. Despite this, the company's operating income saw a 30% increase in the same quarter, partly due to a $2.9 billion tariff refund from the U.S. government. Walmart has indicated plans to use this financial infusion to reduce prices for consumers.