BENTONVILLE, Ark. - Walmart has teamed up with NASCAR to bring race-themed merchandise to its stores, Progressive Grocer reports. The partnership also extends to special discounts on select race events via Walmart.com/NASCAR.

The "Race Time" program is the biggest retailer promo in NASCAR history. The program launched in 1,500 Walmart locations on Feb. 20 at the beginning of the NASCAR season.

Walmart stores participating in the program now offer NASCAR products, such as t-shirts, tailgating food and drinks, and racing flags. Fan events will be held at several units in each race market throughout the NASCAR season.

"We know our customers are NASCAR fans, and we continue to look for ways to provide unforgettable family experiences as well as greater value in every aspect of their lives," said Stephen Quinn, chief marketing officer at Walmart US.

"This program will allow us to get even deeper into product development over the coming years, with Walmart helping us deliver exciting new products at affordable prices to our fans," said Paul Brooks, senior vice president at NASCAR.

Meanwhile, Walmart has started to expand into New York, and has changed its approach significantly, Advertising Age reports. The retailer has taken its fight to New York residents, as well as working with unions on the construction of the stores. In addition, Walmart is testing smaller formats that would fit better into urban locations, such as its 3,500-square-foot Walmart on Campus store.