Urgent statement from Walmart to all its members: It won't be the same as before

Walmart, one of the largest retailers in the United States, has made it clear that its policies are changing. This time, the company has caused discontent among many of its customers by announcing an adjustment in its fees. This change has caused expectations and questions about how it will affect consumers of its online services.

From now on, those who benefit from its Walmart+ Assist program face new conditions that could modify their shopping experience. This update, which reintroduces a controversial fee, has begun to generate reactions within the brand's frequent shopper community. The measure mainly affects those who have an EBT card number saved in their Walmart account.

Reimposition of the fee: what will change for members

The most notable change is the reactivation of a $6.99 fee that will apply to orders that do not reach $35. This will affect both delivery and in-store pickup purchases. Walmart+ Assist customers, who receive a 50% discount on their membership for being beneficiaries of government programs, will be the most affected by this new charge.

The company explained that members using their EBT cards will face this fee on orders below the required minimum. However, this adjustment will not apply to purchases made within Walmart's physical stores. Despite the criticism, Walmart has defended this policy by arguing that it is common in the sector and that it is not related to the fees imposed by Donald Trump.

Reactions and concerns among consumers

Consumer reactions have been strong, with many feeling frustrated by the reintroduction of this fee, as it mainly affects those with fewer resources. Some users have expressed their dissatisfaction through social media, pointing out that it is unfair to penalize those who use EBT cards to cover their basic needs. Others fear that the additional charge will put them in an even more difficult economic situation.

Despite the controversy, Walmart continues to face economic challenges due to inflation and changes in trade policies. According to its latest report, Walmart expects its net sales to grow between 3% and 4% in 2025, while its operating income could increase by 3.5% and 5.5%. However, these forecasts fell short of investors' expectations, showing an uncertain economic outlook.

Walmart's Chief Financial Officer, John Rainey, has highlighted that this weak forecast is due to the "uncertainty related to consumer behavior and global economic and geopolitical conditions." Despite these challenges, Walmart remains committed to its "everyday low prices" model. Although it has acknowledged that prices could rise on some products due to tariff and inflation pressures.