Overall, Walmart reported sales in existing stores rose 2.6% in the latest quarter, the 14th consecutive quarter of growth. In part Walmart benefited from a strong economy that also boosted holiday sales at other retailers this year, while improvements to fresh produce and stronger sales across a broad category of merchandise, also helped, the company said.
Ecommerce growth grew 24% this quarter, down from over 50% the previous three quarters. The majority of the slowdown was expected as its sales from Jet, the online store it bought in September 2016, contributed less to growth, said company executives on a conference call.