Walmart is quietly testing a new ad format called "sponsored prompts" inside its Sparky AI shopping engine and both Chris and Anne agree this is exactly the right move. This segment, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, and Quorso, breaks down why retailer-owned AI is the smart play.

According to Wall Street Journal reporting, Walmart's new ad format integrates sponsored content directly into Sparky conversations with click-to-buy options. Anne loves it because it captures consumers at the perfect moment with relevant offers. Chris sees it as proof that retailers should focus on their own AI experiences rather than chasing ChatGPT integration—especially since Walmart's ad business is already growing at nearly 100% per year.

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