BABA(US:BABA) 3 6 Ke·2025-11-27 08:15Core Viewpoint - The recent leadership change at Sam's Club, with former Alibaba executive Liu Peng taking over, has sparked controversy over the perceived "Alibaba-ization" of the brand, leading to mixed reactions from members and employees alike [1][4][6]. Group 1: Changes in Sam's Club - The Sam's Club app has undergone significant changes, including the replacement of product images with promotional graphics and the introduction of new payment features, reflecting a shift towards e-commerce strategies [1][4]. - Employees have expressed concerns about the increasing emphasis on KPI-driven culture, which they associate with Alibaba's management style, leading to a more competitive and stressful work environment [4][6]. - The introduction of former Alibaba and Hema employees into key positions at Sam's Club has intensified discussions about the impact of Alibaba's corporate culture on traditional retail operations [4][10]. Group 2: Market Position and Strategy - Sam's Club's sales in China are projected to exceed 100 billion yuan in 2024, accounting for nearly two-thirds of Walmart China's overall performance, highlighting the importance of the Chinese market for the brand [6][11]. - The company has faced challenges related to supply chain management and member experience, with complaints about product freshness and quality, indicating a need for operational improvements [6][11]. - The operational strategies being adopted, influenced by Alibaba's experience, are seen as necessary for Sam's Club to adapt to the rapid growth and competitive landscape in China [6][11]. Group 3: Broader Industry Trends - The trend of international brands shifting towards local management teams is evident, with companies like Starbucks and Burger King also making similar moves to enhance local operations and supply chain management [10]. - The cultural shift within companies, particularly the adoption of performance-driven metrics and efficiency-focused practices, is becoming more common as businesses seek to thrive in the competitive Chinese market [11][30]. - The perception of "Alibaba flavor" in corporate culture is increasingly viewed negatively, with former employees expressing concerns about the pressure and stress associated with such environments [22][25][30].