Walmart says it will buy TV maker Vizio for $2.3 bn

Walmart annnounced it will buy Vizio for $2.3 billion, touting it as an affordable advertising-funded streaming option that lets consumers watch for free – Copyright GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA/AFP/File JUSTIN SULLIVAN

John BIERS

Walmart announced Tuesday it will buy smart television maker Vizio for $2.3 billion, boosting the retail giant’s advertising venture as growth slows in its legacy business from the pandemic boom.

With the all-cash purchase, the US shopping behemoth gains access to Vizio’s more than 18 million accounts as another source of strengthened potential connection to those households.

Based in California, Vizio is known for what Walmart called “immersive entertainment” through a “customer-centric platform” that lets viewers stream content for free by watching ads. 

Analysts said the deal would propel further growth in Walmart’s advertising business, which until now has centered on the co