Sam’s Club Eliminates Checkouts and Fully Embraces AI for the Shopping Experience
Sam’s Club Embraces AI for a Seamless Shopping Experience
Introduction to Sam’s Club’s New Grocery Payment System
Sam’s Club, the membership warehouse store owned by Walmart, is making significant updates to its grocery payment process. The company is introducing artificial intelligence (AI) to create a smoother and more efficient shopping experience for its customers.
Transitioning to AI-Powered Shopping
The new strategy aims to phase out traditional checkout lanes in all 600 Sam’s Club locations. Instead, the retail giant plans to implement a system where customers can scan their items using the Sam’s Club mobile app while they shop. An AI scanner will then validate the purchases when customers exit, eliminating the need for receipt checks at the door. This advancement is designed to enhance convenience and speed up the shopping experience.
Features of the "Scan & Go" System
- Mobile Scanning: Members can scan products on their mobile devices as they place them in their carts.
- AI Validation: Upon leaving the store, an AI scanner confirms the items purchased.
- Elimination of Traditional Checkouts: With the introduction of AI, traditional checkout lines will gradually be removed.
This innovative “Scan & Go” feature was initially introduced in April 2024 and aims to redefine the shopping experience at Sam’s Club.
Corporate Vision and CEO Insights
Chris Nicholas, the president and CEO of Sam’s Club, unveiled these ambitious plans during the 2025 Investment Community Meeting. He emphasized that the company is focused on creating the best membership shopping experience and that the transition to AI is one of the quickest and most scalable transformations happening in retail today.
Nicholas stated, “We’re investing with intention…to become the world’s best club retailer.” This indicates Sam’s Club’s desire to leverage technology for improved customer service and operational efficiency.
New Store Innovations
A recently opened location in Grapevine, Texas, has already implemented the “Just Walk” or “Just Go” AI system, which is intended to set the standard for future stores. This outlet is not just about shopping convenience; it is also equipped with advanced technology aimed at enhancing the work environment for employees. Features include:
- Automated Forklifts: Designed to improve logistics within the store.
- Vertical Tire Carousels: Used for efficient storage and retrieval of tire inventory.
- Pizza Robots: Enhancing efficiency in the café area.
These upgrades indicate a focus on merging customer convenience with employee welfare, creating a well-rounded retail environment.
Comparing Sam’s Club and Competitors
While Sam’s Club embraces AI technology, its main competitor, Costco, continues to rely on traditional checkout methods. This differing strategy illustrates the varying approaches retailers are taking to adapt to the changing landscape of consumer shopping behavior.
Focus on Associates and Customer Experience
Despite the implementation of new technologies, Sam’s Club maintains that its 100,000 employees are the core of the company’s progress. Investments in AI are not just focused on financial efficiency; they aim to enhance employee engagement and operational efficiencies.
The president noted, “When a member has a meaningful, positive interaction with an associate, they’re more likely to renew—and stay loyal.” This acknowledgment illustrates the company’s commitment to both its staff and its customers, recognizing that an integrated approach can drive customer loyalty and business success.
Conclusion
With its transition to a technology-driven shopping model, Sam’s Club is positioning itself as a leader in the retail industry. By focusing on member convenience through AI and maintaining strong employee relations, the company aims to innovate while ensuring a high-quality shopping experience for all its customers.
