Amazon Prime Day Sales Plunge 41%

Amazon.com, Inc. is a pioneering American multinational technology company renowned for its dominant role in e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, online advertising, and artificial intelligence[1]. Founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos in Bellevue, Washington, Amazon started as an online bookstore and rapidly expanded into “The Everything Store,” offering a vast range of products from books and electronics to groceries and beyond[1][2]. This evolution was driven by a relentless focus on customer needs—lower prices, greater selection, and convenient services—a philosophy that remains central to Amazon’s mission today[3]. A key driver of Amazon’s success has been its innovative use of technology and logistics. The company revolutionized online shopping with features like customer reviews, 1-Click ordering, and personalized recommendations, setting new industry standards for convenience and efficiency[3]. Amazon Web Services (AWS), launched in 2006, became a global leader in cloud computing, powering businesses and governments worldwide and contributing significantly to Amazon’s profitability and growth[1]. Amazon’s expansion has been marked by strategic acquisitions and diversification. The purchase of Whole Foods Market in 2017 for $13.4 billion marked its entry into brick-and-mortar retail, while the acquisition of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 2022 bolstered its entertainment offerings through Amazon MGM Studios[1]. The company also operates subsidiaries like Ring (smart home security), Twitch (live streaming), IMDb (entertainment database), and Audible (audiobooks)[1]. Amazon’s consumer electronics, including Kindle e-readers, Echo smart speakers, and Fire TV devices, have further cemented its presence in households globally[1]. Financially, Amazon continues to thrive. For the first quarter of 2025, it reported a 9% increase in net sales to $155.7 billion, reflecting sustained growth despite a challenging economic climate[4]. Amazon’s workforce is vast

Walmart, founded in 1962 by Sam Walton, has grown from a single discount store in Arkansas to become the world’s largest retailer, with a commanding presence in both physical and digital retail landscapes[3]. As of fiscal year 2025, Walmart operates over 10,750 stores and serves approximately 270 million customers each week across 19 countries, employing about 2.1 million associates worldwide[1][2][4]. The company reported $681 billion in revenue for 2025, reflecting a 5.1% increase from the previous year and an 8.6% rise in operating income, underscoring its robust financial health and ongoing expansion[1][4][6]. ## What Walmart Does Walmart is a leader in hypermarkets and discount retail, offering a vast range of products—from groceries and apparel to electronics and home goods—through its extensive network of physical stores, e-commerce platforms, and mobile apps[2][3]. Its business is organized into three main segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam’s Club, a members-only warehouse club[3][5]. The company’s mission—“to help people save money and live better”—drives its focus on everyday low prices, convenience, and customer-centric innovation[2][5]. ## History and Key Achievements Walmart’s journey from a single store to a global powerhouse is marked by relentless expansion, operational efficiency, and technological adoption[3]. Key milestones include the launch of Walmart Supercenters in the 1980s, international expansion beginning in the 1990s, and the rapid growth of its e-commerce business in the 2010s and beyond[3]. Today, online sales account for 18% of Walmart’s revenue, fueled by four consecutive quarters of 20% growth[1]. The company’s retail media network, Walmart Connect, has also surged, with ad revenue up 50% in a recent quarter

Target Corporation is a leading American retail giant, renowned for its trendy, affordable merchandise and extensive big-box stores. Founded in 1962 by John Geisse and Douglas Dayton, Target evolved from the Dayton Dry Goods Company, which began in 1902. The company's early success was marked by its innovative approach to discount retailing, and it officially became Target Corporation in 2000. ### History and Evolution Target's journey began with its first store in Roseville, Minnesota. Over the years, it expanded across the U.S., adapting its business model to meet diverse consumer needs. Notable store formats include SuperTarget and CityTarget. Despite setbacks like a failed Canadian expansion and data breaches, Target has consistently innovated, enhancing its product offerings, especially in groceries. ### Key Achievements - **Business Model**: Target is known for offering high-quality, on-trend merchandise at discounted prices, both in-store and online. Its effective supply chain management allows it to keep prices low while maintaining profitability[1][3]. - **Community Engagement**: Target is recognized for its philanthropy, donating 5% of its profits to communities. It also supports various social causes, including LGBTQ rights[4][7]. - **Innovation**: Target has built a $30 billion owned-brands business by leveraging design practices to develop products[9]. ### Current Status As of 2025, Target operates over 2,000 stores across the U.S. and is the seventh-largest retailer in the country. It is a component of the S&P 500 Index and ranks No. 32 on the Fortune 500 list[3][4]. Target's digital presence is robust, with a strong online platform and fulfillment services that enhance customer convenience[2]. ### Notable Aspects - **Organizational Structure**: Target operates under a functional structure, emphasizing core functions like merchandising, marketing, and supply chain management. This structure supports operational efficiency and brand consistency[5]. - **