Walmart has joined forces with Facebook. Two giants now walk hand in hand.

As a result of the partnership, Walmart now offers Facebook pages specifically tailored for each of its locations. The company’s aim is to allow customers to interact with its local stores: consumers will get personalized information on new products, events, and discount offers.

The joining of the two giants underscores the importance of BTM in today’s business. Companies are beginning to understand the power of the internet, and realize the need to address the ‘next-generation’ customers who are avid social media users. Among others, Walmart is trying to harness the power of Facebook to increase customer counts and revenue.

Facebook gives Walmart an indispensable opportunity to use IT in measurement, experimentation, sharing, and replication. In April 2010, Facebook permitted brands to use its “like” button on their websites, suddenly allowing companies to easily use IT to get worldwide data on their products. The fact that Facebook is so globally connected gave companies insights and an efficient way to share their conclusions. Carolyn Everson, vice-president of global marketing solutions for Facebook, said that “brands are starting to see measurable sales impact on products that are ‘liked’ on Facebook”.

Works Cited:

D’Innocenzio, Anne. “Walmart Aims to Recreate Feel of Local Store for its 9 Million Facebook Fan..” Canadian Business. N.p., 11 Oct. 2011. Web. 11 Oct. 2011. <www.canadianbusiness.com/article/49905–wal-mart-aims-to-recreate-feel-of-local-store-for-its-9-million-facebook-fans>.