BENTONVILLE, AR - Walmart is back at it again with the nationwide expansion. This time, the retailer’s Sam’s Club® division has announced plans to open over 30 new clubs across the United States over the next several years. The retailer has also revealed a multiple-year plan to invest in and modernize its supply chain through new distribution and fulfillment center locations across the country.
“We’ve seen remarkable growth over the past few years with a record number of members, and we’re excited to bring the experience of Sam’s Club to even more markets as we expand our footprint,” said Kathryn McLay, Chief Executive Officer at Sam’s Club. “And as we open new clubs in new locations, we’ll continue to innovate so that our members shop and save whether in person or online.”
The first new club location, which is planned in Florida, is slated to open in 2024. In addition, Sam’s Club will launch five new supply chain fulfillment and distribution centers in 2023, with the first location planned in Georgia in Q3. Historic comparable sales growth and a record rise in membership over the last two years were the primary drivers behind these expansions.
The new clubs will be approximately 160,000 square feet, which is larger than most current locations. Most new clubs will feature a full-service floral department, walk-in fresh coolers, and much more. There will also be a significant expansion in the omni-fulfillment footprint, allowing for a dedicated space for curbside pickup, delivery to home, and ship-from-club orders.
Evolving its network and end-to-end capabilities will enable noticeable increases in member experience and service times along with supporting the core club growth. Over the next several years, Sam’s Club will add numerous new facilities to its supply chain network as well as retrofit a number of existing facilities for more enhanced physical and digital capabilities, according to a press release.
"We have an opportunity to place ourselves on the cutting edge of efficiency and automation, unique to our business model," said Joseph Godsey, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain at Sam’s Club. "The most exciting thing, though, will be when the member sees and feels the enhancements… and loves us even more."
For more on these expansions, click here.
Stick with ANUK as we keep our eyes on the biggest retail players in the game.
