Chris Grover thought he was coming to the Cicero Walmart on Monday morning, Sept. 14, to pitch his car mats to store managers and hope for an invitation to a national event.
Instead, he got the invitation on the spot.
Walmart surprised Grover, owner of Archer Heights-based 4RAM Polymers, with news that he has been selected to attend Walmart Open Call on Oct. 7 in Bentonville, Arkansas. The annual sourcing event gives U.S.-based manufacturers a chance to pitch their American-made products directly to Walmart merchants, with the potential to land shelf space at Walmart stores, Walmart.com, and Sam’s Club.
Grover’s company makes Durabilt car mats, manufactured in Chicago from 70 to 90 percent certified recycled vinyl. The mats are low-odor, with zero lead or cadmium, according to 4RAM Polymers. Retail prices range from $19.99 for a value two-pack to $34.99 for an ultra-rugged XL set, with a trim-to-fit four-piece option at $25.99.
After checking inventory in Walmart and Sam’s Club stores, 4RAM Polymers found that every car mat currently on the shelves is made in China, Vietnam, or Thailand. Durabilt is the only domestically manufactured option available at either retailer, the company says.
“I had a sneaking suspicion, but I think just having confidence that what we’ve built is innovative and we can change the landscape of this particular segment,” Grover said after learning of his selection.
Durabilt mats have been available at AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts since August.
More than two-thirds of Walmart’s annual product spending goes to American-made, grown, or assembled goods, according to the company. Open Call is one way Walmart sources shelf-ready products from U.S. entrepreneurs.
Carlos Torres, operations manager at 4RAM Polymers, said the team was proud of the quality they presented to Walmart. “We’re very happy with what we are able to present to Walmart and happy that we’re able to continue moving forward,” Torres said.
Cicero Walmart Store Manager Aracelly Jerez said the surprise announcement reflected the company’s commitment to growth. “When you see situations like that, it’s very exciting,” she said. “It kind of gets you the chills—all the hard work, it pays off.”
At Open Call, Grover will pitch his products in person to Walmart decision-makers. The company will then decide which products move forward.
