Walmart has discreetly discontinued a significant advantage for low-income shoppers that was established during the pandemic. Since 2020, those utilizing food stamps have not had to pay the $6.99 fee on grocery pickup and delivery orders under $35. However, this exemption has now been removed, meaning members of the Walmart+ Assist program—Walmart’s discounted subscription service for those enrolled in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF—will once again face this fee for smaller orders.
This $6.99 charge, which applies in addition to delivery fees, is intended to cover the costs associated with selecting and packing orders. Previously, members of the Walmart+ Assist program paid a reduced membership fee of $6.47 per month, or $49 annually, enjoying perks similar to those of full-price subscribers, including waived basket fees.
Walmart’s decision to reinstate the fee for select customers has been attributed to broader cost-cutting measures as the company grapples with financial challenges linked to tariffs introduced by the previous administration. In a bid to mitigate rising costs, Walmart has also requested suppliers to absorb some of the increased prices due to tariffs and has initiated staffing adjustments to further reduce expenses.
Despite these challenges, Walmart remains optimistic about its financial outlook. The company reported substantial revenue of $180.6 billion for the most recent quarter and an impressive $681 billion in total sales for the fiscal year 2024. However, due to uncertainties regarding tariffs and the potential for a recession, Walmart has refrained from providing its usual sales and profit forecasts to Wall Street.
Walmart’s leadership emphasizes confidence in navigating these complexities, with CFO John David Rainey stating that they see opportunities to gain market share while remaining flexible enough to invest in pricing as tariffs affect incoming products. CEO Doug McMillon affirmed their proactive approach, insisting on closely monitoring costs amid fluctuating market conditions.
This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by retail giants like Walmart, especially when trying to balance cost management and the provision of affordable services for low-income customers. While the reinstatement of the fee may be disappointing for some, Walmart’s commitment to efficiency and adaptability could lead to stronger purchasing power in the long run.