Although the retailer filed in February for a U.S. patent to launch an aerial warehouse, the news was first reported by Bloomberg on Aug. 18. Amazon was granted permission for a similar patent last year.
In the patent application, Walmart describes the floating warehouse as a gas-filled aircraft or blimp, stuffed with merchandise, which could fly as high as 1,000 feet. The aircraft would contain multiple launching bays and be operated automatically or remotely by a human pilot.
Walmart explains in the patent filing: “[I]n a modern retail environment, there is a need to improve the customer service and/or convenience for the customer. One aspect of customer service is the availability of products. The availability of products is dependent in part on the distribution of products.”
According to the report, the floating warehouse would allow Walmart to increase its delivery efficiency and serve a wider distribution area.
More articles on supply chain:
7 must-reads for supply chain leaders this week
Mylan finalizes $465 million settlement with DOJ over EpiPen rebates
CDC: Yellow fever vaccine out of stock
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.