Walmart announced on Tuesday the launch of a discounted joint membership program that combines benefits from both Walmart and its warehouse division, Sam's Club. The new offering is priced at $120 per year, which the company states provides a $100 annual discount compared to purchasing the two memberships separately.
The move follows previous efforts by the retailer to adjust pricing in response to consumer economic concerns. In August, Walmart Chief Financial Officer John Rainey reported that the company had implemented price cuts across various product categories, including food, to address customer needs and seek gains in market share.
The joint membership includes access to member-only pricing at Sam's Club, free delivery from both retailers, a subscription to a streaming service (Walmart+ includes Paramount+, while the joint offering adds options), and a 10-cent discount per gallon on fuel at approximately 17,000 participating stations nationwide. Members can also earn rewards on eligible purchases.
Current members have the option to upgrade their existing plans to the dual membership. Walmart+ members may transition to the joint plan for an additional $22 annually. Sam's Club members can upgrade to a Sam's Club Plus membership, which includes Walmart+, for an additional $60 per year.
For the individual consumer, the primary change is the consolidation of delivery benefits and fuel discounts into a single annual fee. Users who rely on both chains for groceries and household goods will notice the reduced overhead in their annual subscription costs, while those using the 17,000 participating gas stations will see the 10-cent-per-gallon reduction at the pump. The inclusion of streaming services adds a digital component to the physical retail benefits.
The initiative serves as a precedent for how large-scale retailers may bundle disparate service arms—warehouse clubs and standard retail—to maintain customer loyalty. Walmart CEO John Furner stated the goal is to provide customers more money in their pockets and more time to call their own. While the program was announced on Tuesday, the company did not specify a deadline for the introductory pricing or report any planned changes to individual membership rates in the immediate future.