Core Viewpoint - The article analyzes the contrasting market performance of Walmart in the U.S. and China, highlighting the loyalty of American consumers amidst inflation while Chinese consumers are canceling their Sam's Club memberships, indicating a significant divergence in consumer behavior between the two countries [1]. Group 1: U.S. Market Performance - Despite inflation, American consumers continue to rely on Walmart as a necessary shopping destination, demonstrating strong loyalty [3][6]. - Walmart's competitive edge stems from its founder Sam Walton's management philosophy, which emphasizes efficient supply chain management and cost-cutting strategies [5]. - During the high inflation of the 1970s, Walmart expanded by leveraging its logistics efficiency and low-price strategy, positioning itself as a "safe haven" for consumers facing rising prices [6]. Group 2: Chinese Market Challenges - In China, Sam's Club is experiencing a membership cancellation trend, contrasting sharply with its previous popularity [8]. - From 2019 to early 2024, Walmart China closed 115 hypermarkets, while Sam's Club expanded from 23 to 47 locations but failed to retain some core members [10]. - The cancellation trend is attributed to members' disappointment with the lack of differentiated products, as popular items were replaced with more common brands, leading to feelings of betrayal among paying members [11]. Group 3: Consumer Preferences and Competition - Quality concerns have further exacerbated the situation, as incidents involving food safety have raised doubts among consumers [12]. - Chinese consumers prioritize freshness and smaller quantities, contrasting with the bulk purchasing habits favored by American consumers, which has made Sam's Club's business model less effective in China [14]. - The rise of competitors like Hema X and Metro, which offer products more aligned with local preferences, has diluted Sam's Club's market advantages [16]. Group 4: Strategic Adjustments - Walmart's strategic shift, including the sale of its entire stake in JD.com, has negatively impacted its online delivery services, contributing to consumer dissatisfaction [18]. - To regain traction in the Chinese market, Sam's Club may need to adapt its approach, focusing on quality and differentiation to rebuild trust with consumers [21].

Core Insights - Walmart emphasizes the importance of sustainable agriculture and green supply chains, highlighting its commitment to working closely with suppliers to provide quality products at reasonable prices [2] - Sam's Club, a high-end membership retail brand under Walmart, has set annual membership fees of 260 yuan for regular members and 680 yuan for premium members in the Chinese market [2] Group 1: Sustainable Practices - Walmart has established strict "zero deforestation" standards for key commodities such as palm oil, beef, soybeans, and timber, promoting sustainable practices in various regions [3] - The company has protected and restored over 33 million acres of land and marine ecosystems through its sustainability initiatives, contributing to the recovery and management of these ecosystems [3] Group 2: Environmental Management - Walmart has implemented smart energy management systems in its stores, optimizing the efficiency of lighting, air conditioning, and refrigeration to enhance environmental performance [3] - The company is accelerating the adoption of rooftop solar systems in its distribution centers to produce clean energy and reduce carbon emissions [3] Group 3: Food Waste Reduction - Walmart China has established a regular food donation network to effectively reduce food waste in the retail sector, contributing to green consumption and social welfare [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent backlash against Sam's Club for offering a large number of non-Sam's branded products, leading to dissatisfaction among members who feel their membership fees are not justified [2][3]. Group 1: Customer Sentiment - Customers are frustrated that many products available at Sam's Club can be found at local convenience stores without the need for a membership fee [2][3]. - The emotional value associated with shopping at Sam's Club is diminishing, prompting members to question the value of their membership [3]. Group 2: Proposed Solutions - The author suggests that Sam's Club should focus on enhancing its branding by prominently displaying its logo on products, even if they are from other brands [5][6]. - The recommendation is to make the Sam's logo extremely visible on products to improve customer perception and satisfaction [7][8]. Group 3: Brand Identity - The article emphasizes that the uniqueness of Sam's Club's offerings should be highlighted, as this is a core competitive advantage [14][21]. - It argues that even if products are sourced from the same manufacturers, the branding and quality standards can differentiate them significantly [17][18]. Group 4: Implementation Strategy - The author believes that the strategy of enhancing product packaging with the Sam's logo is a simple yet effective way to address customer concerns quickly [10][24]. - The focus should be on immediate implementation of this branding strategy to improve customer feedback and overall perception of the brand [9][24].