A thoughtful man with his hand on his face in front of a Sam's Club building.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Sam's Club announces a major change that affects all its members: it's official

Sam's Club's strategy marks the beginning of a new stage with direct implications for all its members

Sam's Club stores are preparing to implement a significant transformation that won't go unnoticed among their regular customers in the United States. This measure has caused divided opinions, as many shoppers are concerned about how it will affect their shopping experience. However, the company has already confirmed the details and the options available for those who don't want to adapt to this proposal.

From now on, Sam's Club will stop using their traditional self-checkout lanes to adopt a system called Scan & Go. This method requires customers to scan products as they walk through the store and then go through a smart scanner before leaving. For those who prefer not to use this new technology, there will be employees available to assist them during their shopping.

Facade of a Sam's Club store with a large blue sign at the main entrance.
Sam's Club Eliminates Traditional Checkouts | Walmart

Changes in the Shopping Process and User Reactions

The new Scan & Go system is designed to speed up the checkout process, eliminating long lines at the registers. Users must download the Sam's Club mobile app, activate store mode, and scan each product as they shop. Once the selection is complete, they confirm the purchase through a QR code at a self-service kiosk and can leave the store directly.

Although this proposal aims to modernize and facilitate the shopping experience, many Sam's Club members have expressed their dissatisfaction, reveals The Sun. Some users point out that this method eliminates human interaction and traditional customer service.

On social media, there are criticisms warning that they won't renew their membership if the proposal is kept, due to the sense of loss in personalized attention and discomfort with the mandatory use of the app. One of them wrote: "The new payment system at Sam's Club is ridiculous, totally disconnected from the customer, I don't plan to renew."

Facade of a building with the samsclub.com logo in blue letters.
The Scan & Go system replaces traditional checkout | en.edatv.news

Options for Those Who Don't Want to Use Scan & Go and Walmart's Expansion

Sam's Club has made it clear that they won't force their customers to use the new system exclusively. Therefore, they will have staff with tablets to help those who aren't comfortable with the technology or prefer more direct assistance. This measure aims to minimize the negative impact and offer alternatives within the same store.

Meanwhile, Walmart, the parent company, continues with their ambitious growth plans. In 2025, ten new locations will open, including a Sam's Club warehouse. The expansion will be distributed across several states in the United States, including Alabama, California, and Florida.

In addition, more than 650 Sam's Club stores will be remodeled, incorporating advanced technology and better designs to optimize the shopping experience. These investments aim to strengthen the group's position in a highly competitive market and reach a broader audience.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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