Sam's Club, the membership warehouse owned by Walmart, is undergoing a transformative shift in its grocery payment system. The company aims to eliminate traditional checkouts across all 600 stores, replacing them with an advanced AI-driven solution. This new system, known as "Scan & Go," allows customers to use the Sam’s Club mobile app to scan their items during shopping. Upon leaving, an AI scanner will verify the purchases, creating a seamless experience and removing the need for receipt checks at the exit. Chris Nicholas, Sam’s Club president and CEO, highlighted this transformation at the 2025 Investment Community Meeting, emphasizing the company's commitment to becoming the world's leading club retailer.
The initiative, launched in April 2024, has already been implemented in a newly opened store in Grapevine, Texas, which features the “Just Walk”/”Just Go” system. This location serves as a model for future stores, designed to enhance both customer convenience and employee efficiency through technological advancements such as a vertical tire carousel, automated forklifts, and even a pizza robot in the café. These innovations aim to make shopping faster and more enjoyable while providing employees with a better work environment.
In contrast, Costco, Sam’s Club's primary competitor, continues to rely solely on traditional checkout lanes. Despite this difference in approach, Sam’s Club remains focused on its associates, ensuring they remain integral to the company's success. The integration of AI tools not only improves operational efficiency but also boosts associate engagement. Investments have been made in wages and career development opportunities, reinforcing the importance of human interaction in enhancing the member experience.
According to Nicholas, meaningful interactions between members and associates lead to higher renewal rates and increased loyalty. By fostering a supportive culture for both employees and members, Sam’s Club aims to achieve continued growth and success in the competitive retail landscape. The adoption of cutting-edge technology signifies a bold step forward, setting a new standard for convenience and efficiency in the retail industry.
As Sam’s Club continues to implement these changes, it positions itself at the forefront of retail innovation. By blending technology with human-centered design, the company strives to create a superior shopping experience that benefits both customers and employees alike. This strategic move underscores Sam’s Club's dedication to redefining the retail experience through progressive measures and thoughtful execution.