Core Insights - Walmart has opened its first owned and operated case-ready beef facility in Kansas to eliminate middlemen and control costs amid rising beef prices [1][2] - The facility, spanning 300,000 square feet, will package and distribute Angus cuts sourced from Sustainable Beef LLC to 600 stores in the Midwest, enhancing transparency and capacity in the beef supply chain [2][6] - This strategic move is expected to lower costs, allowing Walmart to offer competitive pricing as beef prices continue to rise [7][9] Company Strategy - Walmart's investment in Sustainable Beef LLC in 2022 is part of its initiative to create an end-to-end supply chain for Angus beef, sourcing cattle from a 250-mile radius [5] - The establishment of the case-ready facility is aimed at improving quality, traceability, and supply chain strength in the concentrated U.S. beef industry [6][12] - The company is also focusing on enhancing its fresh food perception, particularly in produce and protein categories, to attract higher-income households [12][14] Market Context - As of May, beef and veal prices increased by 8.6% year-over-year, with projections indicating a further rise of 6.8% due to tight supplies and strong consumer demand [9][10] - Current cattle supplies are at a 74-year low, contributing to the increase in wholesale prices and ultimately affecting consumer prices [10]