Does Walmart Still Wrap Gifts In-Store in 2024? Here‘s What to Know

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Walmart‘s affordable in-store gift wrapping service was a holiday tradition for many shoppers. However, this convenient option was discontinued after the 2015 holiday season.

Why did Walmart get rid of this time-saving service? Will in-store gift wrapping ever come back? And what are the options for getting gifts wrapped at Walmart now? Here‘s a detailed look into Walmart‘s gift wrapping policies over the years and alternatives for the 2023 holiday season.

The End of An Era: Walmart Stops In-Store Gift Wrapping

Walmart‘s gift wrapping service was immensely popular due to its low $3.88 price point per gift. According to Walmart‘s Chief Financial Officer in 2014, gift wrapping accounted for over 1.5% of Walmart‘s annual revenue [1].

Gifts purchased in-store were wrapped in signature Walmart blue wrapping paper stamped with white snowflakes, topped with a white bow. It was an affordable and convenient way to save time during the busy holidays.

However, the manual process of having store associates wrap gifts was time and labor intensive. According to Walmart executives, the company wanted to improve customer service by focusing those efforts on improving checkout times and other initiatives [2].

So after the 2015 holiday season, Walmart discontinued in-store gift wrapping station services.

How Walmart‘s Decision Compares to Other Retailers

Walmart wasn‘t the only retailer to stop providing an in-store gift wrapping service. Target removed their gift wrap stations the same year as Walmart, in 2016 [3].

Here is a comparison of major retailers‘ gift wrapping services and prices:

RetailerIn-store Gift WrappingPrice Per Gift
WalmartNoN/A
TargetNoN/A
CostcoYes$4
Sam‘s ClubNoN/A
Barnes & NobleYes$4
NordstromYes$6

While some retailers like Costco and Barnes & Noble still offer gift wrapping, the trend of discontinuing this service indicates stores are looking to cut costs and streamline operations. Big box retailers are instead driving consumers to utilize online ordering and fulfillment options.

Getting Gifts Wrapped via Walmart.com

The good news is that Walmart does still offer gift wrapping, but through its online store instead of in retail locations.

When browsing or searching on Walmart.com, look for the "Gift eligible" tag to see which items can be shipped in gift packaging.

Then during checkout on Walmart.com:

  1. Select the option "My Order is a Gift"

  2. Enter the gift recipient‘s delivery address and email address

  3. Choose one of Walmart‘s festive gift box designs, such as the reindeer or snowflake prints

  4. Add a personalized gift message

  5. Select delivery speed and continue through checkout

Walmart‘s online gift wrapping service is completely free – you simply pay the regular shipping price. The gift recipient will receive their Walmart order neatly packaged in your choice of gift box with ribbon and bow, plus any gift message you customized.

Creative Gift Wrapping Alternatives

While it‘s disappointing Walmart no longer offers in-store gift wrapping, you still have options to save time and money:

  • DIY at home – Buy inexpensive wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbon, and other supplies at Walmart to wrap on your own. Get the kids involved to make it fun!

  • Gift bag it – Skip wrapping all together and place gifts in a decorative gift bag, available in many sizes at Walmart. Add tissue paper to fancify it.

  • Reusable wrapping – Wrap gifts in a scarf, bandana, towel, or other fabric. The recipient can reuse it.

  • Experience gifts – Give tickets to events or gift cards for activities instead of physical gifts requiring wrapping.

  • Shop local gift wrap stations – Many local malls or gift shops offer seasonal gift wrap stations where you can get gifts from any store wrapped on the spot.

While the era of Walmart‘s $3.88 in-store gift wrap service is over, with a little creativity you can still spread holiday joy on a budget. Focus on the love and thought behind each gift, rather than picture perfect wrapping.

[1] https://consumerist.com/2014/10/15/walmart-makes-1-5b-annually-from-gift-wrapping-alone/

[2] https://www.fool.com/investing/general/2015/12/22/wal-mart-stores-inc-just-made-a-billion-dollar-cutb.aspx

[3] https://www.sentinelsource.com/target-takes-gift-wrapping-off-site/article_691b1e3c-de4d-5a77-a221-fd448d69a30c.html

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

Similar Posts