山姆需要「阿里味儿」

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent changes at Sam's Club in China, particularly the appointment of Liu Peng, a former Alibaba executive, as the new president, and the subsequent reactions from loyal members who fear a shift in the brand's identity and values [1][2][4]. Group 1: Member Reactions - Members are expressing concerns over changes in product quality and marketing strategies, indicating a strong loyalty to the current Sam's Club experience [1][2][4]. - The loyalty of members is highlighted as a double-edged sword; while it shows commitment, it also restricts the company's ability to innovate or change its business model without facing backlash [4][5][6]. Group 2: Business Model Comparison - The article contrasts the operational strategies of Sam's Club in the U.S. and China, noting that the U.S. model focuses on suburban expansion and a strong in-store experience, while the Chinese model has adapted to urban environments and e-commerce [11][12][13]. - In the U.S., Sam's Club has a mature network with plans for both new store openings and renovations, while in China, the focus has shifted to online sales, which now account for over 50% of gross merchandise volume (GMV) [11][13]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The competitive landscape for Sam's Club in China is evolving, with new rivals emerging from e-commerce giants like Alibaba and Meituan, shifting the focus from traditional competitors like Costco [15][17]. - The article suggests that Sam's Club must adapt to this new competition by incorporating elements of "Alibaba culture," which emphasizes efficiency and aggressive sales strategies [19][20]. Group 4: Strategic Dilemmas - The introduction of "Alibaba flavor" into Sam's Club's operations raises concerns about the potential erosion of the brand's core values and member trust [22][23]. - The article posits that the company is at a crossroads, needing to balance innovation with the preservation of its original identity to maintain member loyalty [23][24].