Franchise News

Sam's Club's Customers Question Enforced Membership Add-On Rules

Jul 01, 2024 10:41 AM EDT | By Jep Collins

Woman sitting on a grocery scooter

(Photo : Pexels/JenniferGentner)

At Sam's Club, members can add a free membership for a family member or friend. However, a customer at Sam's Club recently expressed dissatisfaction with how the store is enforcing these membership rules.

Membership Rules at Sam's Club

Sam's Club allows members to add a free membership for a family member or friend. According to the rules, this individual should reside in the same household as the primary member.

According to the retailer's website, Sam's Club offers two main membership tiers with different benefits.

For the Additional Plus Benefit, which is $110 annually, members receive one card for the primary account holder and a free card for another household member. Additional household members can be added at a reduced rate of $45 each.

Members added on receive a club membership card, but only primary and complimentary cardholders qualify for the plus benefits. Add-on members interested in upgrading to Plus must establish a new account.

On the other hand, the Base Club Membership costs $50 per year, with one card for the primary account holder and another free card for a household member. Up to 8 additional members can be added at a reduced rate of $45 each, each receiving a complimentary card. Add-on members have the option to create their separate membership if desired.

Also Read: Costco Confirms One-Day Shutdown Across All Locations This Fourth of July

Enforcement of Membership Rules at Sam's Club

A shopper paying at the counter

(Photo : Pexels/KampusProduction)

At Sam's Club, adherence to membership rules can vary widely across different locations, according to recent discussions.

According to one member on Reddit, some clubs may not consistently enforce this rule, indicating local discretion in enforcement.

Another member added that the rule is not strictly enforced at their club, but other clubs may be more stringent, requiring matching addresses on IDs.

A participant mentioned that anyone can be designated as a complimentary member with a valid ID, with enforcement being described as vague.

A Sam's Club cashier mentioned that the rule hasn't been enforced for years, and recent changes haven't improved enforcement, as revealed in The U.S Sun.

However, contrasting views were also shared. One member asserted that there is strict enforcement at their club, and complimentary members are required to show proof of address.

They emphasized that failure to comply negatively impacts the club's operations.

Impact of New Delivery Policy on Sam's Club Plus Members

In another U.S. Sun news, Sam's Club is implementing changes to its delivery policy, which has stirred dissatisfaction among some members. According to the new policy, Plus members, who pay $110 annually, must meet a $50 minimum order to qualify for free home delivery.

Several members have expressed their discontent with this update. One member commented on Facebook, stating they intend to cancel their Plus membership once it expires this year.

Another member highlighted concerns about the practical impact of the policy change. They explained that previously, separating orders helped prevent damage to items due to inadequate packaging.

They noted that combining items like a case of canned dog food with jars of mayonnaise would be necessary to avoid $8 shipping charges. Affected members have been informed of the $50 minimum requirement, which is set to take effect on August 19th.

Related Article: Walgreens Shopper Outraged Over Price Discrepancy, Company to 'Inform Leadership

© 2024 Franchise Herald. All rights reserved.

Franchise News

Real Time Analytics