Walmart joins Instacart platform and takes aim at Amazon

Walmart is partnering with Instacart to offer same-day delivery in the US as it looks to take on Amazon and its network of Whole Foods stores and Prime offering.

The tie up is currently in a pilot phase in four markets across California and in Oklahoma.

"Today, we welcomed Walmart to the Instacart marketplace for the first time in the US. We now deliver from Walmart locations in three California markets — Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego — as well as Tulsa, Oklahoma," an Instacart spokesperson said.

"The new partnership brings thousands of items — from groceries, alcohol and pantry staples to home decor and improvement, personal care, electronics and more — at everyday low prices from Walmart stores to customers' doors in as fast as an hour."

Instacart already partners with or delivers goods from Aldi, Target, Costco, Albertsons and Kroger, along with smaller grocers and drug stores. The platform also has an existing partnership with Walmart-owned Sam’s Club that will remain intact.