Sam's Club, the Walmart-owned warehouse club, is embarking on an ambitious expansion strategy that includes remodeling all of its 600 locations and opening approximately 15 new stores annually. This announcement was made during Walmart Inc.'s 2025 Investment Community Meeting held on April 9, 2025, where CEO Chris Nicholas outlined the company's long-term vision for growth and modernization.
The company aims to double its membership and significantly boost sales and profits over the next eight to ten years. In January 2023, Sam's Club had already revealed plans to open 30 new clubs across the country as part of a broader strategy to invest in and modernize its supply chain.
According to Nicholas, "This is one of the fastest, most scalable transformations happening in retail today. We’re investing with intention—in our fleet, our associates and the member experience—to become the world’s best club retailer." This transformation is particularly timely as consumers seek value amid rising inflation and economic uncertainty.
The remodeled stores will follow the design of a recently reopened location in Grapevine, Texas, which had to close due to damage from a tornado in December 2022. After extensive renovations, the Grapevine store introduced a register-free shopping experience that has been well-received by customers. The new system allows shoppers to use Scan & Go technology, which enables them to bypass traditional checkout lines.
In 2025, Sam's Club plans to open its first stores in Tempe, Arizona, and Lebanon, Tennessee, marking a significant expansion into these new markets. These locations will join the ranks of the existing Sam's Club stores, which have seen a year-over-year sales increase of 5.9% and a 24% surge in e-commerce sales.
Sam's Club's new growth plan is not just about adding locations; it also focuses on enhancing the shopping experience for members. The company has introduced features like high-top tables staffed by member specialists to assist customers with the Scan & Go system, making the shopping experience more user-friendly.
As warehouse clubs continue to thrive in the retail landscape, Sam's Club is capitalizing on this trend. While other retailers have struggled, the demand for warehouse shopping remains strong. The club's value proposition, which includes savings on groceries, prescriptions, and gas, makes it an attractive option for consumers looking to stretch their budgets.
In addition to the new store openings, Sam's Club will be remodeling all 600 of its existing locations, ensuring that every store aligns with the modernized vision set forth by the company. This remodel will incorporate advanced technology and a more engaging shopping environment, aimed at attracting a younger demographic.
The Grapevine store serves as a model for these renovations, featuring an omnichannel showroom that reimagines the shopping experience. This includes areas dedicated to home-meal solutions, a sushi island, and full-service pharmacy, optical, and hearing centers, all designed to enhance the overall member experience.
Sam's Club's aggressive expansion and remodeling plans reflect a broader trend in the retail industry, where companies are increasingly focused on integrating digital and physical shopping experiences. As more consumers turn to online shopping, Sam's Club is adapting by offering features that allow customers to explore online exclusives and ship purchases directly to their homes.
In summary, Sam's Club is positioning itself for significant growth in the coming years. With plans to open 15 new locations each year and remodel all existing stores, the company is determined to enhance its appeal and solidify its place in the competitive wholesale retail sector. As CEO Nicholas stated, "We’ve built the foundation. Now, we’re accelerating." This ambitious strategy aims not only to increase membership but also to redefine the warehouse shopping experience for a new generation of consumers.
