Sam's Club is changing a key member perk beginning in August
FILE - Shoppers stock up on merchandise at a Sams Club store on Jan. 12, 2018, in Streamwood, Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
BENTONVILLE, Ark. - Sam's Club Plus members will soon notice a change in a coveted perk, and some are letting the wholesale giant know that they aren’t happy about it.
Plus members will now only get free shipping on orders from the Sam's Club's website or app on "qualifying orders of $50 or more," effective on August 19, according to the company.
For those who do not add $50 worth of qualifying items to their digital cart, there will be an $8 flat rate fee, the company said.
However, "some category exclusions apply whereby variable shipping will be charged," it adds.
Sam’s Club change on free shipping for Plus members was noted by some on social media, including one customer who complained that Sam’s Club was "taking away benefits."
"Hey @SamsClub, how are (you) spinning these new changes and now for plus members, we have to order $50 or more for free shipping??" @Victorino1 posted to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. "You are taking away benefits. ENOUGH, respond back to your plus members. This is some BS!!! Don’t ghost us!"
The company quickly replied: "Thank you for reaching out to us. By adding a cart minimum, we are increasing access to different ways of shopping for our members. This will make it easier for you to get the products you want, the way and at the time you want."
Another user threatened to take their business to the company’s rival.
"@SamsClub idiotic move getting rid for free shipping for plus members," @80zkid4Ever posted to X. "I will take my business to Costco."
Sam's Club responded that they understood his "frustration about this new change," and asked that he private message them.
In response, another X user said she has a disability and counts on Sam's shipping to get the products that she needs.
"Many of the items I buy are only sold online so your new free (for $50 or more) from the warehouse makes no sense for me," @monroe8831 posted to X. "Please help."
Sam's Club Plus membership benefits
Plus members will also be able to get free same-day delivery on qualifying orders when the $50 minimum threshold is met when the changes take place next month.
Other perks for Plus membership include free curbside pickup, early shopping, 2% Sam's Cash through the rewards currency program, prescription savings, optical savings and Plus Early Access, which allows shopping two hours early during "big year-round savings events."
Sam's Club, a Walmart-owned company based in Bentonville, Arkansas, is currently offering $50 off a Plus membership, making it $60 – but the offer ends on Sunday, according to FOX Business.
"Our members are at the heart of everything we do," a statement from a Sam's Club spokesperson to FOX Business said. The statement added that the retailer is "continuously working on providing an easier and more convenient shopping experience for our members."
At Costco, some items purchased online include shipping and handling. Others are two business day delivery for orders of $75 or more.
FOX Business contributed to this report. It was reported from Cincinnati.