Chile consolidates its role in Walmart's international geography. At the end of the first quarter of 2026, the local branch had 403 operational stores, a number that places the country among the group's most important markets outside the United States in terms of network extension.
This picture emerges from the quarterly results released by the American multinational and reported by Forbes Chile. Globally, Walmart closed the period with revenues up by 7,3 % and an operating profit growth of 5%International business has contributed with 35,1 billion dollars to overall revenues and recorded an increase in sales of 18 % between January and March 2026.
The Chilean figure stands out above all for its territorial density. With its 403 establishments, the country ranks as the Walmart's third largest international market by number of stores, behind Mexico, which leads the ranking with 3.330 stores, and Canada, which stands at 404. Chile thus surpasses markets of larger demographic and economic size, including China, South Africa, Costa Rica and Guatemala.
The local network is built on multiple formats. The brand Express represents the most widespread presence, with 160 shops, Followed by SuperBodega aCuenta with 128 points of saleand at our 102 hypermarkets and come on 13 Central MayoristaA multi-format structure that allows the company to meet different needs: urban proximity, convenience shopping, large format, and wholesale channels.
The impact of the Chilean operation isn't just measured by the number of stores. In recent years, Walmart Chile has also strengthened its digital component, pursuing a technological integration process closer to the standards of its US parent company. Since 2023, the local platform has been connected to a system that allows Chilean consumers to purchase international brands and imported products through Lider.cl.
E-commerce remains one of the group's most dynamic drivers. In the first quarter of 2026, Walmart's online sales grew by 26 % globally, while the supermarket business has seen an advancement of 7,3 %Digital growth also has a direct impact on the Chilean market, where Lider.cl has taken on a broader role in consumer relations and integrating the physical store and online channels.
The Chilean digital platform also has a strong connection with the local manufacturing sector. According to Forbes Chile, approximately 50% off the offer available on Lider.cl It comes from small and medium-sized businesses. The marketplace thus becomes a tool for expanding the product range, but also a channel for smaller suppliers to access modern distribution.
Chile's centrality in the Walmart network is accompanied by infrastructure investments. Among the announced initiatives is the construction of a new distribution center 200 million dollars, intended to support the group's logistics capacity in the country. Logistics remains a crucial aspect for an operator that must serve a large, diversified network, increasingly integrated with digital technologies.
Walmart Chile's presence fits into a competitive grocery retail market, where consumers are increasingly focusing on price, convenience, and speed of service. The combination of convenience stores, discount-oriented formats, hypermarkets, cash & carry, and online channels allows the company to cover multiple purchasing needs, from everyday groceries to family supplies, and even the needs of small professional operators.
