Walmart announced more than 1,200 small and mid-sized business finalists for its ninth annual Open Call Event, Thursday. They represent every state in the U.S. and almost 60 percent have diverse ownership. The two day event will be held June 28 and 29.
On the second day of Open Call, finalists will pitch their shelf-ready products to Walmart and/or Sam’s Club either virtually or in-person. Each supplier will have a 30-minute one-on-one meeting for a chance to supply products to local stores as well as nationwide distribution.
“The entrepreneurial spirit is contagious, and that energy is a big part of what makes Open Call so much fun,” said Scott Gutche, senior director of U.S. manufacturing at Walmart, in a statement. “Being able to surprise some of the business owners who’ll be taking part is the perfect way to kick off this year’s celebration of the American Dream.”
In addition to the pitch meetings, participants will be able to hear directly from Walmart executives and merchants via breakout sessions focused on important supplier-related topics and resources.
The Walmart Open Call event supports the company’s 10-year commitment to American jobs by investing $350 billion in products made, grown, or assembled domestically.
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