Walmart Is Trying To Fuel the Nation. Here’s How It Plans To Do It

Walmart is expanding its footprint once again — this time at the pump.

The retail giant recently announced plans to open or remodel more than 45 Fuel and Convenience stations across the United States in 2025, further solidifying its position as a leader in value, accessibility, and convenience.

The move is part of the retail giant’s ongoing investment in its vast network of physical locations. By enhancing its Fuel and Convenience services, Walmart is positioning itself as a destination for groceries and household essentials and as a go-to stop for affordable fuel and quick purchases. Currently, the retail giant operates over 400 Fuel and Convenience stations nationwide. With this year’s expansion, that number will surpass 450 locations across 34 states.

A Strategy Built on Convenience and Value

The expansion of the company’s Fuel and Convenience stations aligns with the company’s broader strategy of offering customers everyday low prices and an enhanced one-stop shopping experience, per a press release shared with RetailWire. According to Dave DeSerio, VP of Fuel and Convenience for Walmart U.S., the investment reflects the company’s commitment to delivering more value to its customers — especially those already loyal to the brand.

“We’re continuing to invest in our nationwide, physical store footprint. By adding dozens of Fuel and Convenience stations this year, we are bringing even more value to our customers,” DeSerio said. “Customers shop Walmart for our everyday low prices and convenience offerings, and fuel stations are another example of us responding to our customer and member needs.”

Unlike traditional gas stations, the Fuel and Convenience locations allow customers to enjoy the same low prices on snacks, beverages, and other quick essentials as they would inside a Walmart store. This consistency reinforces the company’s value proposition while offering shoppers the convenience of in-and-out service.

Walmart+ Members Benefit at the Pump

One of the key incentives driving Walmart’s fuel expansion is its Walmart+ membership program. As part of the subscription’s perks, Walmart+ members can save up to 10 cents per gallon at the Fuel and Convenience stations. This discount adds tangible value to the membership and creates a strong incentive for members to fuel up at Walmart locations rather than competitors.

A discussion on RetailWire from 2022 explored how fuel perks could influence consumer behavior. Industry experts agreed at the time that fuel discounts were a powerful motivator for membership programs, especially when gas prices continue to fluctuate.

Strengthening Walmart’s Physical Footprint

While much of the retail world is focusing on e-commerce and last-mile delivery, Walmart’s fuel station expansion signals the retailer’s continued confidence in the power of its physical locations. With more than 4,600 stores nationwide, Walmart’s real estate presence is unmatched. Adding or enhancing Fuel and Convenience stations within that network allows the company to increase the utility of its stores and strengthen its local market share.

The Road Ahead

The company’s expansion of Fuel and Convenience services reflects a broader trend: Customers want more value and convenience in a single stop. Whether they’re picking up groceries, grabbing snacks, or saving at the pump, Walmart’s growing network of Fuel and Convenience stations meets those needs.

With over 450 locations expected by the end of the year, the retail giant is well on its way to becoming a key player in the nation’s fuel economy. The retailer’s ability to leverage its scale, physical presence, and membership program makes this expansion a logical step in maintaining its leadership in retail — and now, at the pump.

As DeSerio aptly put it, the retail giant listens to its customers. And with this expansion, the company is ensuring that when it comes to convenience, value, and fueling up, Walmart remains the ultimate one-stop shop.