Core Viewpoint - Sam's Club has faced backlash from its members due to changes in its app interface and product presentation, indicating a potential disconnect between the company and its customer base [1][4][10] Group 1: Customer Feedback - Members criticized the new app design for using overly polished images of products instead of straightforward representations, leading to disappointment when actual products did not match expectations [3][4] - Complaints included difficulties in navigating the app, with members expressing frustration over the increased number of steps required to access product details [3][4] - The backlash suggests that members are deeply invested in the brand, as they are willing to voice their concerns publicly rather than quietly disengaging [4][10] Group 2: Brand Trust and Identity - The introduction of a new executive from Alibaba has raised concerns among members about the potential shift in Sam's Club's identity towards a more e-commerce-driven model, which could undermine the trust that customers have in the brand [4][10][17] - Members value the simplicity and transparency of the shopping experience at Sam's Club, which contrasts with the complex marketing tactics often employed by e-commerce platforms [9][10] - The recent changes are perceived as a betrayal of the trust that members place in the brand, as they fear a move towards a more algorithm-driven shopping experience [10][15] Group 3: Market Position and Growth - Sam's Club has seen significant growth in China, with membership numbers rising to 9 million and store count increasing from 15 to 53 between 2016 and 2024, despite a challenging economic environment [12][17] - The brand's success is attributed to its ability to cater to middle-class consumers seeking quality products without the hassle of complex purchasing decisions [9][12] - The recent backlash highlights a critical moment for Sam's Club, as it must navigate maintaining its unique value proposition while adapting to market pressures [15][18]
【中童洞见】看来山姆并不明白自己为什么火