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].