Walmart’s Retail Link Supply Chain: A Case Study Solution

Abstract

Purpose: The research focuses on the Retail Link System of Walmart and its transformation of supply chain management. This paper shall investigate how the system has given Walmart an edge in inventory management, demand forecasting, and supplier coordination—the very factors that have fitted Walmart in as the world's leading low-cost retailer.

Methodology: This paper presents a case study approach that appraises how far and how much Retail Link has been transformed from a mere EDI-based application to an extranet-based platform and how this has improved the real-time data and advanced analytics of Walmart in its supply chain.

Findings: The application could improve stock management, predict demands, and coordinate suppliers through real-time data sharing between the parties in it. The system further increased the volume of suppliers from which goods were purchased by including smaller suppliers. Besides, integrated analytics solutions such as Quintiq further improved truckload assignment and delivery schedules, contributing to developing the competitive advantage of Walmart further.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: To be efficient and remain competitive, companies should put supply chain technology for real-time information and coordination between suppliers at the top of their investment list. Walmart must keep innovating, keep the Retail Link system flexible and scalable, and look for opportunities to extend supplier integration and data transparency to enhance relationships and operational optimization across its global network.