Walmart to Hold Open Call for Entrepreneurs' Products

Walmart has issued a call for entrepreneurs across the country to sit at a table with a company buyer. 

Despite its decision to slow down new store openings, with plans to build no more than 25 stores this year, Walmart has not stepped back from its investments in new products. In January 2013, the retailer revealed intentions to help boost job creation and U.S. manufacturing through buying an additional $250 billion in products that support American jobs over 10 years.

“Walmart’s investment in U.S.-manufactured products goes beyond the shelf," said Cindi Marsiglio, Walmart’s VP of merchandise services and U.S. manufacturing. "The investment is also in the entrepreneurs’ dream, and that can be an emotional experience for everyone involved. By investing in products that support American jobs, we’re able to bring new products to our shelves and new jobs to our communities.”

In 2017, Walmart welcomed several new brands to its portfolio through its open call, including ZolliPops, which was founded by 12-year-old entrepreneur Alina Morse. 

The open call will take place June 13 in Bentonville, Ark., and the deadline for applications is May 4.