China’s slowing retail data masks a more complex picture: Walmart’s Sam’s Club is thriving by catering to affluent consumers who value exclusive products, efficiency, and experiential shopping.
Key Takeaways
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Membership retail finds traction: Sam’s Club’s growth in China underscores consumers’ willingness to pay for premium access and unique merchandise.
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Experience drives loyalty: The chain’s treasure-hunt style shopping and fast digital delivery appeal to shoppers.
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Local rivals struggle to scale: Chinese challengers like Freshippo and Pangdonglai falter in replicating the membership model.
