Sam’s Club is making progress with its “Made Without” program as some 96 percent of its Member’s Mark products meet the initiative’s goals.
This program focuses on removing more than 40 ingredients, including artificial colors, aspartame and high-fructose corn syrup, based on feedback from members, nutritional guidance and industry trends. The company anticipates reaching full compliance by the end of the year.
This effort highlights Sam’s Club’s commitment to understanding member preferences, adapting its offerings to align with current dietary needs and providing products made with simpler, more recognizable ingredients.
Member insights drive product evolution
The changes to the Member’s Mark line is largely a response to insights gleaned from the Sam’s Club Member’s Mark community. A survey revealed that 72 percent of members surveyed are actively seeking minimally processed foods, and 90 percent either live or aspire to live a healthier lifestyle. These preferences have influenced the brand’s formulation, sourcing and packaging standards, ensuring Member’s Mark products evolve with contemporary consumer values.
“We take pride in the high-quality ingredients that go into our products, but what truly differentiates us are the ingredients we consciously leave out,” said Julie Barber, chief merchant at Sam’s Club.
“Our ‘Made Without’ commitment underscores our aspiration to be members’ go-to destination for quality at a disruptive value. For us, it’s about listening to our members and providing the items that resonate with their lifestyles.”
“Made Without” fuels business growth
What began as a purpose-driven initiative has translated into significant business momentum. The Member’s Mark brand is emerging as a key differentiator, particularly among Millennial and Gen Z shoppers who prioritize fewer ingredients, convenience and enhanced experiences.
In response to this demand, the brand has launched first-to-market products free from artificial colors, such as its seasonal Member’s Mark Star Cutout Cookies and Member’s Mark Organic Fruit Twists.
An example of this success is the fresh sushi offering, now available in 581 clubs and set to launch under the Member’s Mark brand in all clubs by September. Prepared fresh daily, sustainably sourced and free of “Made Without” list ingredients, this offering “is exceeding expectations and outperforming other fresh food categories, especially among younger, health-conscious members.”
Looking ahead, officials at Sam’s Club are exploring opportunities to expand its “Made Without” initiative beyond food and beverages into categories like household essentials, health and baby.
[RELATED: Sam’s Club Shares Vision, Growth Strategy]