“You can’t help but expect backlash,” Sam’s Club said after a “stupid maneuver” led to a member revolt against Costco on August 19.

SAM’S Club continues to face fierce opposition following a major change to one of its membership plans, which Costco is likely to benefit from.

The Arkansas-based chain announced earlier this month that member benefits will change on August 19.

With the new Plus membership, shoppers will no longer receive free shipping and free same-day delivery on all orders.

Instead, a $50 spend minimum will be introduced next month for members who wish to take advantage of these benefits.

Plus members who had already paid the $110 annual fee contacted X after receiving the news. Many threatened to switch to Sam’s Club competitor Costco.

‘SETBACK’

One called the move “stupid,” while another advised the retailer to prepare for “backlash.”

“I love Sam’s – especially the app that lets you skip the checkout line when shopping. But as a Plus member, I’m not renewing,” wrote X-user @TheMikeyChill.

“The new minimum order value for free shipping is a rip-off. Costco doesn’t charge me for shipping.

“You can’t raise prices without facing backlash. That’s all, no DMs.”

“@SamsClub already turned off auto-renew – free shipping won’t apply unless I spend $50. Dumb move Sams Club,” said another.

“I’m going to Costco,” vowed a third.

Although some users claim that Costco does not charge shipping, this is false.

Costco offers its members free shipping on orders of $75 or more.

However, with similar membership prices and perks, Costco is still a viable alternative for disgruntled Sam’s Club customers.

MONEY BACK

In addition, Sam’s Club members are demanding their money back or discounts because they missed out on what they consider to be the most important benefit of Plus membership.

“Hi, I upgraded to Plus membership to get free shipping on all orders,” wrote one shopper on X.

“Since you are eliminating this important benefit, will you lower membership fees and send us at least a $50 credit/refund?

“You took advantage of free shipping on all orders to earn additional Plus memberships.”

“I just signed up for your shipping plus membership and you’re changing it…?? I’d like a contact number for a membership refund,” wrote another.

Sam’s Club did not respond to US Sun’s questions about refunds and/or changes to member prices.

However, a company spokesman declined to comment on the recent complaints.

“Our members tell us time and time again that convenience is important to them, no matter how they shop,” a Sam’s Club spokesperson told The US Sun in response to members’ complaints.

“These recent changes are designed to simplify the experience and fees for same-day delivery and shipping, but also provide better access to the items our members buy most.

“The feedback was consistently positive. Members said it was easy to reach the minimum basket value.

“In response to feedback from our members, we’ve also added several new benefits – including grocery delivery, which our members say is a highly valued benefit, and eliminating curbside pickup fees for our entry-level membership level.”