Core Viewpoint - Sam's Club has faced strong dissatisfaction from members due to the removal of popular products and the introduction of new items like the low-sugar cake from Haoliyou, leading to significant discussions on social media [1][3]. Group 1: Product Changes - In recent months, Sam's Club has made intensive adjustments to its product offerings, including the introduction of Haoliyou's low-sugar cake priced at 49.9 yuan for 48 pieces, which is exclusive to Sam's channels [3]. - Other new products from leading brands such as Kang Shifu, Heytea, and Xu Fu Ji have been launched, while previously popular items like 100% fruit juice are no longer available [5][10]. Group 2: Membership and Revenue - The annual fee for a regular membership at Sam's Club in China is 260 yuan, while the premium membership costs 680 yuan [8]. - Walmart's latest fiscal quarter reported net sales of 6.7 billion USD (approximately 48.02 billion yuan) in China, with a year-on-year growth of 22.5%, and comparable sales growth of 16.8% [8]. Group 3: Consumer Sentiment - Consumers have expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, with some stating they would not renew their memberships due to the recent product changes [5][10]. - Experts highlight that differentiation is crucial for membership warehouse stores, as members expect unique products that set them apart from non-members [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent controversy surrounding Sam's Club due to the removal of popular products and the introduction of new items, leading to consumer dissatisfaction and questions about the selection standards of the store [1][2][5]. Group 1: Product Changes and Consumer Reactions - Sam's Club has faced backlash from consumers for discontinuing high-repurchase-rate products like sun cakes and low-sugar egg yolk pastries, while introducing new items such as low-sugar Holley Friend pies and other products that are perceived as less desirable [2][4]. - The removal of the Holley Friend pie, which was marketed as having "80% less sugar" and "30% more cocoa," has particularly drawn criticism, with a price of 49.9 yuan for a box of 48 pieces and a high approval rating of 93.6% from over 9,000 reviews [11][12]. - Consumers have expressed feelings of being treated unfairly, questioning whether their membership fees are justified when they can find similar products elsewhere [4][5]. Group 2: Business Performance and Membership Structure - Sam's Club, a subsidiary of Walmart, has over 800 stores globally and is a significant revenue source for Walmart, with net sales in China reaching $6.7 billion (approximately 48.02 billion yuan), a year-on-year increase of 22.5% [14][15]. - The annual membership fee for regular members is 260 yuan, while premium members pay 680 yuan [15]. - The company has been expanding its store presence, adding seven new locations in the past 12 months, and has maintained strong growth in both membership and e-commerce sales [15]. Group 3: Market Positioning and Consumer Expectations - Experts suggest that differentiation is crucial for membership warehouse stores, as consumers expect unique products that are not available in regular retail channels [13][16]. - Quality has become a key factor for Chinese consumers, overshadowing traditional considerations like brand and price, which has contributed to the success of stores like Sam's Club [16].