Sam’s Club makes big changes to Plus membership

Starting next month, an important change will come into effect for Sam’s Club Plus members.

I’ve been a Sam’s Club Plus member for about a year now. My wife and I love shopping at this mall, where we buy everything from coffee to meat in bulk. We always end our visit with a hot dog and a soda at the Sam’s Club Cafe. In fact, it’s the main reason I go shopping with my wife. (It’s like a treat.) If you also shop at Sam’s Club, there are new changes coming that you should know about.

According to USA Today, new shipping, delivery and pickup policies will soon be in place at Sam’s Club stores across the country. The move comes shortly after the company introduced new artificial intelligence (AI) technology designed to make the shopping experience “faster and more convenient.” USA Today previously reported that blue gateways have been installed at store exits to inventory products in shopping carts and ensure nothing has been stolen. The new technology allows customers to quickly confirm their receipts without having to wait in line to have them manually verified. It also frees up other employees to help customers.

Sam’s Club Plus members currently pay an annual membership fee of $110, which is $60 more than the basic membership. The premium version offers customers several perks, including free shipping on most online items. However, starting August 19, 2024, Plus members will have to spend at least $50 to qualify for free shipping. If the order is less than that amount, a flat shipping fee of $8 will be added to the order. Analysts cited by USA Today believe the change is aimed at reducing shipping costs for the company.

While it’s not hard to spend $50 at Sam’s Club, I can certainly imagine some Plus members not being too thrilled with the new policy, especially after paying the annual premium fee. However, there are a few other changes coming that may be met with a more positive response. For one, there will now be free same-day delivery on qualified orders over $50. Additionally, regular club members will receive free curbside pickup on eligible items with a minimum order of $50. Currently, curbside pickup is only free for Plus members. Club members must pay a flat fee of $4.

As an in-store shopper, the changes won’t have a huge impact on me. That said, I can 100% understand the frustration of regular online and app shoppers. There is certainly some give and take with these new policies. I will keep my membership for now, and of course as long as Sam’s Club keeps its $1.38 hot dog combo.