Retail Media Networks (RMNs) are no longer an “extra channel”. In 2026, they’re a core part of how brands reach shoppers at the moment of intent. As retailers turn their first-party data, on-site traffic, and in-store screens into full-fledged media businesses, a few platforms clearly stand out.
Below are the best Retail Media Networks shaping the market in 2026, based on scale, data depth, ad innovation, and advertiser demand.
Best Retail Media Networks in 2026
Walmart Connect
Walmart Connect remains the undisputed leader in retail media. With massive online traffic, thousands of physical stores, and one of the richest first-party datasets in retail, Walmart offers brands true full-funnel coverage.
In 2026, its strength lies in closed-loop measurement, on-site sponsored products, off-site programmatic extensions, and growing in-store and CTV integrations. For brands focused on scale and performance, Walmart Connect is often the first stop.
Best for: Large-scale CPG and omnichannel brands looking for measurable ROI.
Target Roundel
Target’s Roundel stands out for its balance between performance and brand storytelling. Built on strong shopper loyalty and high-quality first-party data, Roundel combines on-site placements with premium off-site inventory across digital, social, and video.
By 2026, Roundel has doubled down on creative formats, audience targeting, and brand-safe environments, making it especially attractive for lifestyle, beauty, and fashion advertisers.
Best for: Brands that care about both conversion and brand equity.
Instacart
Instacart has evolved from a grocery delivery app into one of the most powerful retail media platforms in the grocery and FMCG space. Its biggest advantage is real purchase intent — ads appear while users are actively building shopping carts.
In 2026, Instacart’s ad stack includes sponsored listings, shoppable display formats, and increasingly sophisticated measurement tied directly to basket data.
Best for: FMCG, food, beverage, and household brands targeting high-intent shoppers.
eBay
eBay’s retail media strength comes from its diverse marketplace and strong search-driven demand. Unlike traditional retailers, eBay captures shoppers already comparing prices, conditions, and sellers — making ads highly transactional.
By 2026, eBay Ads has expanded its sponsored listings, display formats, and data-driven targeting, giving advertisers access to millions of active buyers across multiple categories.
Best for: Electronics, collectibles, refurbished goods, and price-sensitive categories.
Wayfair
Wayfair has carved out a unique position in retail media by owning the home and furniture category. Its shoppers are typically in high-consideration, high-value purchase journeys, which makes Wayfair’s first-party data especially valuable.
In 2026, Wayfair’s retail media offering focuses on sponsored product placements, rich visual formats, and data insights tied to long purchase cycles.
Best for: Home, furniture, décor, and lifestyle brands.
Get acquainted with the comprehensive Retail Media Outlook for 2026!
Why These Retail Media Networks Matter in 2026
What unites these platforms is not just scale, it’s data ownership, closed-loop measurement, and direct access to shoppers at the point of decision. As third-party cookies continue to fade and budgets shift toward performance-driven channels, Retail Media Networks are becoming essential infrastructure for modern marketing.
For advertisers, the key question in 2026 is no longer whether to invest in retail media, but which networks best align with their category, audience, and growth goals.