Walmart reflects on success of 11th annual open call event
Walmart wrapped up its 11th annual Open Call event, awarding deals for entrepreneurs from around the country to sell their products made, grown or assembled in the United States on Walmart or Sam's Club shelves or on Walmart.com.
Finalists from across the nation represented 48 states, with entrepreneurs from more than half of these states receiving “golden tickets” representing deals and entrepreneurs from more than 42 states under consideration for deals. For the very first time, Walmart invited dozens of Walmart merchants from Canada and Mexico to Open Call, creating an opportunity for suppliers to export their products to international markets. Finalists had the opportunity to meet with representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce to learn more about the exporting process.
"Securing a golden ticket at Open Call grants entrepreneurs an invaluable chance to reach new customers, grow their businesses and create jobs in their communities," said John Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S. "Open Call is at the heart of Walmart's 10-year, $350 billion commitment to products made, grown or assembled in the United States. This investment not only ensures that our customers receive the products they need at affordable prices but also supports the creation of over 750,000 jobs."
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All finalists had the opportunity to receive business and pitching advice from entrepreneur, investor and "Shark Tank" star Daymond John. They also gained insights from previous Open Call winners, such as Athletic Brewing and Fire Department Coffee.
In addition, golden ticket winners gained free access to John's Mastermind class, a unique resource offering valuable business insights to help suppliers scale to fulfill their new deals with Walmart. Through resources like John's class and Walmart's Supplier Hub, which assists businesses in their growth journeys as Walmart suppliers, Walmart supports the scale-up of small and medium-sized businesses.
"Already, more than two-thirds of Walmart's annual product spend is on goods made, grown or assembled in the United States," said Jason Fremstad, senior vice president of supplier development, sourcing at Walmart. "By offering Open Call winners guidance and resources to scale, Walmart can take this investment even further and deliver more of the high-quality, affordable, American-made products our customers desire – when our suppliers grow, everyone wins."
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Walmart noted that over 85% of Walmart customers have said it is important for retailers to carry products made or assembled in the United States. Sourcing more of these products from Open Call winners and other suppliers enables Walmart to meet its customers' needs and create value for its communities.
Suppliers often expand their U.S. manufacturing footprints and create jobs after earning deals with Walmart. For instance, Athletic Brewing, a prominent U.S. non-alcoholic craft beer manufacturer, has invested more than $115 million in its facilities and created nearly 200 new jobs since its successful Open Call pitch in 2020.