Amazon’s annual Prime Day sales kicked off on July 8, prompting major competitors Walmart and Target to launch their own overlapping promotions in a high-stakes battle for summer shoppers.
Running through July 11, Amazonโs event offers exclusive deals for Prime members across millions of products, including electronics, home goods, clothing, health and beauty items, toys, and back-to-school supplies.
In response, Walmart began its โWalmart Dealsโ event on July 8, continuing through July 13. The sale spans electronics, appliances, clothing, school supplies, and toys, both online and at over 4,600 stores nationwide. Notable discounts include 50% off the MacBook Air 13-inch, $100 off a 32-inch Samsung smart monitor, and 47% off Galaxy Watch models.
Target joined the competition with its โTarget Circle Weekโ sale, running through July 12. The promotion is available to members of its free loyalty program, Target Circle, and features discounts of up to 50% on school supplies, home goods, and appliances. New daily deals and โbuy two, get one freeโ offers add to the appeal. Paid members of Target Circle 360 can also use a $50 coupon on their first same-day order. Membership costs $10.99/month or $99/year.
According to research firm eMarketer, Amazonโs earlier start date this year pushed Walmart and Target to act quickly, resulting in a direct showdown over customer loyalty and summer spending.
Amazon remains the top e-commerce retailer in the U.S., accounting for over 40% of online sales. However, Walmart has become a serious challenger, investing heavily in its online infrastructure. The companyโs e-commerce sales have been growing by more than 20% annually.
Bank of America estimates that total gross merchandise volume (GMV) for Amazon during this Prime Day period, including third-party seller transactions, will reach $23 billion.
BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
