Sam’s Club recently responded to a customer’s request for a change in their membership policy, addressing concerns about the in-store experience. When new members join Sam’s Club, they are provided with a digital membership card. However, not everyone is thrilled about this modern approach.
One shopper took to X to voice their dissatisfaction, urging Sam’s Club to bring back the traditional physical card. The shopper expressed that navigating the store without a physical card is particularly “difficult” and added, “Costco would never,” implying that their competitor still offers physical cards.
Say Goodbye to Physical Cards? Sam’s Club Clarifies Membership Policy
In response, a Sam’s Club representative expressed gratitude to the member for highlighting the issue. The representative clarified that while digital cards are standard, physical cards have not been phased out entirely.
For those who prefer a physical card, it is still possible to obtain one. Here’s how:
- Visit the customer service desk at your local Sam’s Club warehouse.
- Ensure you have a government ID and your membership number ready for verification.
This process allows members who favor a more traditional approach to shopping at Sam’s Club to have a satisfactory experience. The option to request a physical card ensures that all members can shop in a way that suits them best.
In the bustling world of holiday shopping, tensions can sometimes run high, as seen in the viral moment a shopper at Costco aggressively rammed their cart into another’s buggy, turning a routine trip into a spectacle of mayhem. Meanwhile, Sam’s Club is taking steps to modernize and reduce environmental impact by cutting back on the issuance of physical membership cards.
Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Who Offers Better Membership Flexibility?
Sam’s Club is embracing a more sustainable approach, encouraging members to lessen their environmental footprint. As part of this initiative, they are transitioning away from physical cards. Instead, members can access their digital membership cards through the Sam’s Club app, making it easier and greener to shop.
At Costco, members have the flexibility to choose between digital or physical membership cards to enter their warehouses. However, Costco has implemented strict guidelines to ensure proper usage of these memberships. Here’s what you need to know:
Costco Membership Sharing Guidelines
- Primary Member Use: The card can only be used by the primary cardholder, whose photo appears on the card. Sharing it for purchases is strictly prohibited.
- Household Card: Each primary member is eligible to add one free household cardholder living at the same address. This person receives their own card and can shop independently.
- Guest Policy: Members are allowed to bring up to two guests during each visit. However, purchases can only be made by the member, and guests must be accompanied by them.
- Authorized Cardholder: For a fee, members can add an authorized cardholder, such as a friend or family member who doesn’t live at their address. This cardholder gets their own card and shopping privileges.
For further convenience, Costco also offers digital cards available through their in-store app, allowing members to enjoy seamless access to their favorite products.
Costco has recently introduced a new policy that impacts its members, sparking a mix of reactions. As you enter the store, you will notice that scanners have been installed at the entrances.
Enhanced Membership Verification
Members are now required to place their membership cards under a reader for a verification check. As part of this process, a photo of the shopper appears on a screen that is monitored by store employees.
For those whose cards lack a photo, this new system means they must present an additional form of ID to verify their identity. This requirement has prompted some frustration among shoppers.
In comparison, a Sam’s Club membership costs $50 annually, whereas a standard Costco subscription is priced at $65. It’s worth noting that Costco attracted attention last year when it announced an increase in membership fees.
The recent membership cost increase at Costco, though modest, has caught the attention of many. With a rise of just $5, it’s the first such increase in seven years. While most shoppers have accepted the change, a few have found it necessary to reconsider their subscriptions.
Introducing Membership Scanners at Costco
Costco has taken a step forward by unveiling new membership scanners at the entrances of its stores. In August 2024, Costco announced this development on its website, stating:
“Over the coming months, membership scanning devices will be used at the entrance door of your local warehouse,” it wrote. Members need to scan their physical or digital membership card using the barcode or QR code against the scanner. Guests must be accompanied by a valid member to gain entry.
If you have any questions or concerns, there will always be an attendant at the door to assist you. If your membership is inactive, expired, or you would like to sign up for a new membership, the attendant will ask that you stop by the membership counter prior to entering the warehouse to shop.
