Flipkart announces the launch of Flipkart Wholesale; acquires 100% interest in Walmart India

The Flipkart Group, today announced the launch of Flipkart Wholesale, a new digital marketplace that will help transform the kirana (grocery) retail ecosystem in India by leveraging cutting-edge and locally developed technology. As part of this launch, the Group also announced the acquisition of 100% interest in Wal-Mart India Private Limited, which operates the Best Price cash-and-carry business, to leverage the strong wholesale capabilities of the company and enable growth and prosperity for kiranas and MSMEs.

Kiranas and MSMEs are central to India’s retail ecosystem and Flipkart Wholesale will focus on meeting their needs by providing small businesses a wide selection at significant value, powered by technology to make their lives easier. Whether in grocery, general merchandise or fashion, these businesses will have one-stop access to an extensive selection of products with attractive schemes and incentives, supplemented with data-driven recommendations for stock selection, delivered through a fast and reliable network to drive greater efficiencies and better margins.

In addition, kiranas and MSMEs will benefit from access to easy credit options and opportunities for new income generation through various Flipkart initiatives, creating new ways to catalyse growth. These opportunities are especially relevant at this time as kiranas and MSMEs work towards achieving scale and profitability following the impact on business due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Flipkart Wholesale will leverage Flipkart’s strong homegrown technology capabilities, extensive leadership in the consumer e-commerce segment, and a unique understanding of the industry in India. The business will also utilise the Flipkart Group’s vast supply chain infrastructure to reach kiranas and MSMEs across the country. Flipkart Wholesale will draw on the merchandising experience of the Walmart India team, its strong relationships with brands, deep DNA of servicing kiranas and 12+ years of operating Best Price stores. One of India’s largest cash-and-carry businesses, Best Price currently supports more than 1.5 million members, including kiranas, horecas and other MSMEs, and has long-standing supplier diversity and development programs. Flipkart Wholesale will continue to develop technology tools, and ecosystem partnerships to help Indian commerce unlock its potential.

Top Indian brands, local manufacturers and sellers have partnered with Flipkart Wholesale to ensure the availability of an exhaustive range of products and merchandise for kiranas and MSMEs. At the same time, partners will benefit from broader reach across the country, micro-market insights to enable effective inventory planning and new product development, and cost-effective distribution.