Expanding Footprint, Squeezed Profits: The Challenge Facing Walmart Mexico

Walmart de México, the region’s biggest retailer, recently reported a surprising mix of results. In the latest quarter, sales rose to 246.25 billion pesos (about $13.5 billion), up 8.3% from last year, according to official company data.

Yet profits fell sharply, dropping just over 10% to 11.23 billion pesos (about $615 million). This gap reflects a tough balance: Walmart is selling more but making less money on each sale.

Company filings and executive statements point out several reasons. Operations got more expensive, with everyday costs up 12.2% from the previous year.

The value of the Mexican peso fell about 5% against the US dollar, making imports and business loans costlier. Financial outlays rose by 30%, showing how price increases ripple through the business.

Walmart opened 25 new stores in the quarter—20 in Mexico, four in Costa Rica, and one in Guatemala—expanding its presence to 3,191 locations nationwide. Most of its products are made in Mexico, supporting local businesses and jobs.

Walmart Invests Over $2 Billion in Mexico

The company spent more than 41 billion pesos (about $2.25 billion) on new stores, upgrades, automation, and boosting e-commerce, which grew by 20% but still makes up less than 9% of total sales.

Consumers in Mexico visited stores less often, with store traffic falling 1.4%, but spent more each time, with the average purchase up 6%. This trend came as families watched their budgets closely, responding to lingering inflation.

Despite these hurdles, Walmart says it will keep investing in Mexico, targeting steady growth and relying on its vast supplier network. Walmart’s current situation matters for more than just shareholders.

The company employs over 200,000 people in Mexico and impacts countless local suppliers. Its mix of growing sales and falling profits highlights the challenges of doing business today, from currency shifts to rising costs.

Walmart’s results show that even the biggest retailers must adapt fast. For now, they are betting on investment and scale to outlast the squeeze—and hoping local shoppers regain confidence soon.