Last updated on February 3rd, 2023
Bentonville, Arkansas-based Sam’s Club, a division of Walmart Inc., has announced plans to open more than 30 new stores over the next several years.
The first location, which is planned in Florida, is slated to open in 2024. In addition, the company has a multiple-year plan to invest and modernize its supply chain through new distribution and fulfillment centers across the country. Sam’s Club will launch five new centers in 2023, with the first location planned in Georgia in the third quarter.
The decision to invest in expanding its physical footprint was motivated by its sales growth and a record rise in membership over the last two years. Sam’s Club has continued to prioritize products and services that drive shopping trips and demonstrate the value of membership.
“We’ve seen remarkable growth over the past few years with a record number of members, and we’re excited to bring the experience of Sam’s Club to even more markets as we expand our footprint,” said Kathryn McLay, CEO at Sam’s Club. “And as we open new clubs in new locations, we’ll continue to innovate so that our members shop and save whether in person or online.”
Club features
Over the past several years, Sam’s Club has invested in its physical footprint, enhancing member experiences with improved member service desks and redesigning the majority of its 600 clubs. The brand has also invested in its in-club technology to improve the shopping experience with Scan & Go Checkout, Scan & Go fuel, Scan & Ship, curbside pickup and other omnichannel offerings.
The new clubs will be approximately 160,000 square feet. Most clubs will feature a seafood/sushi island, floral department and a walk-in dairy and fresh coolers. Additionally, members will benefit from a larger healthcare space inclusive of a patient waiting area, health services suites, private consultation rooms and hearing and optical centers. Many of the new locations will also include fuel stations and liquor offerings.
There will be an expansion in the omni-fulfillment footprint, allowing for space for curbside pickup, delivery to home and ship from club orders. This area will include walk-in coolers and expanded doors for outgoing delivery truck efficiency.
Supply chain enhancement
To support Sam’s Club’s growth over the past few years, the company has undertaken a transformation of its supply chain, evolving network and end-to-end capabilities. Over the next several years, Sam’s Club will add numerous new facilities to its supply chain network, as well as retrofitting a number of existing facilities for more enhanced physical and digital capabilities.
“We have an opportunity to place ourselves on the cutting edge of efficiency and automation, unique to our business model,” said Joseph Godsey, SVP of supply chain. “The most exciting thing, though, will be when the member sees and feels the enhancements…and loves us even more.”
As part of these new footprints, Sam’s Club is launching facilities with automation and robotics. By combining the shorter distances and the efficiencies added through process, automation and digitization, replenishment of clubs and item fulfillment for members will be better.
Focus on sustainability
The company is designing future clubs with zero emission strategies built in through electrification of equipment, including electric ovens, HVAC equipment, water heating systems and low emissions refrigeration systems. In addition, the company is installing energy efficient LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations for delivery vehicles and new “green” refrigerant in its new locations.
To learn more about Sam’s Club, visit SamsClub.com.
