When we think of member’s only shopping experiences we likely default to Costco, but there are many other services that provide this exclusive access to products and one of the most popular ones is Sam’s Club. This Walmart owned warehouse store chain specializes in wholesale and bulk sales and offers a wide variety of products ranging from groceries to appliances, technology, clothing, furniture, and even services like batteries, insurance, and travel. But they have made a change that may not have pleased their customers, and that is to eliminate exclusive discounts or members.
The new Sam’s club policies that have upset customers and the ones that they have liked
First and foremost it is important to say that even though it may seem like it is just like Costco, they are two different entities each with their own rules related to membership and access, so comparing them in any other capacity than both of them being warehouse stores that have memberships is unproductive.
The main way in which these two chains are different is that Sam’s Club allows people without membership to shop at their locations. The service is set up as a “Guest Membership” and will add 10% to your order to make it fair for those who choose to pay the annual membership, but there are some services like the food court that will serve anyone and without surcharge, making them more accessible.
On top of not having ot pay this extra 10% members used to get benefits that were exclusive for them, as well as exclusive discounts that made membership costs even more affordable (they go form 50$ to 110$ per year depending on the amount of perks you get) and appealing, but to keep up with the times, Sam’s Club is revising their perks and taking way these two options will save them money in the short term.
We say in the short term, because since discounts on electronics and seasonal items have disappeared entirely and exclusive discounts are no longer just for members, many have decided that the price of the membership is not worth it since they can get similar results just with the “Guest Member” pass. Additionally, Sam’s Club has eliminated other perks like early access to exclusive promotions which has turned into popular products having specific dates and times for purchase, which limits access for some customers.
Even though these changes have brought many complaints, there have also been other changes that have pleased customers, although they are not talked about nearly as much since they are not controversial. The most significant change was made to the rewards program and that is that now, members of the club will have the opportunity to earn more money back when purchasing selected products, including fresh food and technology. This only applies to the top tier membership, but it is still a much appreciated nod to those who almost exclusively shop there as it is seen as an extra reward for being loyal customers.
Another great upgrade, although this one is for members and nonmembers alike is that Sam’s Club has improved their e-commerce platform and now members can shop from home in a more convenient fashion and can choose from a wider selection that was available before and that is available now in store. This turns the website into a bit more of a marketplace and gives the option for some products to be shipped directly, expanding their shelf life while not occupying precious store real estate.
This last upgrade comes with an additional twist, which is that now online shoppers have the option to pick up their orders at any location or have them delivered to their home, which can save time and resources, although non members and club members might have to pay for shipping.