More Shoppers Can ‘Like’ Walmart

Responding to Facebook fans who want more an increased level of local involvement from the chain, Walmart has launched more than 3,500 store-specific Facebook pages. The “My Local Walmart” Facebook application aims to provide area-specific information while solidifying the mega-retailer’s connection with shoppers in the communities it serves.

The app enables U.S. shoppers to use social media to track exactly what's in their Walmart stores and when, including new products, price rollbacks and in-store events.

“From the checkout line to our Facebook wall, Walmart continues to engage with and listen to its customers,” said Stephen Quinn, EVP and chief marketing officer at Walmart U.S. in Bentonville, Ark. “Our innovative approach with Facebook allows us to bridge the gap between local and social, giving millions of customers the personalized shopping experience they expect from Walmart.”

“People on Facebook want to connect with the brands that they love,” added Carolyn Everson, VP of global marketing solutions at Palo Alto, Calif.-based Facebook. “Walmart's new app offers enhanced local interaction at an unprecedented scale to their customers. Walmart continues to put people at the center of their marketing, in this case by bringing relationships to life locally.”

To access the “My Local Walmart” page, Facebook users should visit facebook.com/Walmart, and then click on the “My Local Walmart” tab. They will then be prompted to input their ZIP code, “Like” their favorite stores and click “I’m Ready” to begin receiving local store information. Facebook users’ newsfeeds will be updated about twice weekly.

Walmart and Facebook will continue to test, improve and add additional features to the app.