Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent controversy surrounding Sam's Club's decision to stock products from the brand Holley, which has faced criticism in the past, leading to dissatisfaction among its core members, particularly the middle-class consumers [3][4][10]. Group 1: Product Controversy - The introduction of Holley’s low-sugar cake, which claims to have reduced sugar by 80% and increased cocoa content by 30%, has sparked backlash from members who feel misled by the product's taste [7][10]. - Many consumers expressed their disappointment in the product's reviews, with over 300 negative comments highlighting that the cake was still too sweet despite its low-sugar label [8][10]. - The controversy is compounded by Holley's previous "dual standard" incident regarding product formulations, which has damaged its brand image among consumers [10][11]. Group 2: Brand Image and Member Expectations - Sam's Club has built its reputation on high-quality products and strict quality control, which has attracted millions of members, particularly from the middle class [18][22]. - The introduction of mainstream brands like Holley, Xu Fu Ji, and Wei Long has diluted the perception of Sam's Club as a premium retailer, leading to concerns among loyal members about the quality of products available [24][26]. - Members have voiced their concerns directly to Sam's Club, with reports indicating nearly a thousand comments on quality issues related to product selection [25][26]. Group 3: Business Expansion and Challenges - Sam's Club is aggressively expanding in China, with plans to open eight new stores by 2025, bringing the total to 55 locations [28][29]. - Despite strong sales growth, with projections of over 100 billion RMB in sales for 2024, the company has faced multiple quality control issues, including reports of spoiled products and contamination [30][32]. - The article suggests that Sam's Club needs to reassess its supply chain management to align with its rapid expansion and maintain product quality [34][36]. Group 4: Strategic Reflections - The company is urged to balance its global supply chain capabilities with local market needs, especially as it introduces more locally produced products [37][39]. - There is a call for Sam's Club to adopt a more customer-centric approach when addressing quality complaints, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its reputation for quality over mere sales growth [40][41]. - The founder's principle of prioritizing quality over sales is highlighted as a critical area for reflection as the company navigates its growth and member expectations [43].
山姆卖好丽友,中产破防了
36氪·2025-07-15 10:14