Walmart Marketplace just introduced a new option called Recognized Reviewer, inside Review Accelerator that allows sellers to offer free product samples to help generate reviews. This is a meaningful update. Reviews are often the main bottleneck for new or growing listings. Now, instead of waiting passively for feedback, sellers have two structured and compliant programs directly inside Seller Center.
Under Review Accelerator, you now have:
- Post Purchase Reviews
- Recognized Reviewer Program
Here is how they differ and when to use each.
Post Purchase Reviews
This option is designed for products that already generate sales.
You encourage customers to leave a review after they complete a purchase. The goal is to convert more buyers into reviewers.
Eligibility:
- Fewer than 15 reviews
- Prior sales history required
How it works:
- Customer purchases the item
- You enroll the SKU in Review Accelerator
- Walmart manages the incentive process
- If the customer leaves a review, it is labeled and displayed alongside organic reviews
Best for products that are already converting but lack review volume.
Recognized Reviewer Program
This is the newly emphasized option.
Instead of relying on existing buyers, you provide free product samples to a select group of trusted reviewers within Walmart’s ecosystem.
Eligibility:
- Fewer than 10 reviews
How it works:
- Enroll eligible SKUs
- Select the number of units you want to provide
- Walmart distributes samples to recognized reviewers
- Reviewers leave honest, unbiased feedback
- Reviews are labeled on the listing
You are responsible for product cost, shipping, and applicable fees. You are charged only for reviews that are published.
Key difference
- Post Purchase Reviews focus on increasing review rates from real customers.
- Recognized Reviewer helps new or low review SKUs build early traction through product sampling.
All activity must comply with FTC regulations and Walmart Marketplace guidelines. Direct review solicitation outside these programs is not permitted.
For sellers launching new SKUs or trying to strengthen social proof on existing listings, this update provides a clearer and more controlled path to increasing review volume within Walmart Marketplace.
