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Walmex Says World Cup Failed to Drive Broad Consumption

The retailer cut its 2026 sales outlook after second-quarter results showed weak overall demand and only narrow category gains.

Overview

  • Walmart de México y Centroamérica reported same-store sales rose 1.8% in Q2 while transactions fell 1.1% and operating profit declined 1.4%, producing a 6.8% operating margin.
  • The company disclosed Thursday that it has trimmed its 2026 sales growth guidance to 3.5–4.5% in constant currency because consumer demand has not recovered as expected.
  • Walmex said World Cup merchandising and promotions lifted specific lines such as Onn televisions, seasonal licensed merchandise and Hot Sale items but did not trigger a wider spending surge.
  • Digital and advertising businesses showed strength with eCommerce sales in Mexico up 16.2%, eCommerce volume up 11.5%, and Walmart Connect revenue growing 31%, while Marketplace volume fell 6.6%.
  • Industry groups and analysts backed Walmex’s view, reporting muted World Cup effects for retailers and restaurants, and raising concern that cautious, value-focused shoppers could slow broader economic recovery.