Walmart preps Amazon Prime rival launch

Walmart is set to unveil a new subscription service later this month.

Called Walmart+, the Amazon Prime competitor will cost $98 a year and include perks like same-day delivery of groceries and general merchandise, discounts on fuel at Walmart gas stations, and early access to product deals.

Walmart+ was originally scheduled for a March or April debut, but the retailer shelved this after the Covid-19 pandemic hit the US.

Walmart did not respond to our request for comment.

Hooray for Hollywood

Walmart is converting 160 of its US store parking lots into drive-in cinemas. 

As the coronavirus outbreak continues apace, drive-in theatres have been making a comeback as an alternative to the traditional cinemas that remain closed in much of the US. 

Walmart’s service will debut in early August and remain operational through to October. The Walmart Drive-In will feature movies programmed by Tribeca Enterprises, the Robert De Niro-backed company behind the Tribeca Film Festival.

A press release promises “family-friendly nights that will include hit movies, and special appearances from filmmakers and celebrities.

Walmart has not said whether attendees will have to pay a price of admission. But ahead of each screening, it will sell concessions, which can be ordered online for curbside pickup on the way to the movie.  

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