logo
#

Latest news with #SamsClub

How did a chocolate pie offend middle-class sensibilities of Sam's Club members in China?
How did a chocolate pie offend middle-class sensibilities of Sam's Club members in China?

South China Morning Post

time4 days ago

  • Business
  • South China Morning Post

How did a chocolate pie offend middle-class sensibilities of Sam's Club members in China?

Sam's Club, the US membership-only bulk retailer owned by Walmart, has long been seen as one of the foreign supermarkets most attuned to the needs of China's middle class. Each year, millions of urban Chinese families pay a 260 yuan (US$36.28) annual fee in exchange for what they see as access to a globally curated, quality lifestyle - featuring products like Scotch whisky, Chilean dried prunes, and chilled beef from the United States and Australia. That selection has come to symbolise a middle-class sensibility attuned to globally focused consumption. But that premium image was shaken recently when Sam's Club stores in China began stocking a domestically made chocolate pie - priced at 49.9 yuan for a pack of 48 – touching a nerve among its loyal membership base. Well-known for its low price, the pie in question is often found in neighbourhood convenience stores or corner shops in China. But it falls short of what many health-conscious, quality-driven Chinese middle-class shoppers consider 'decent' or 'premium'. Wendy Liu, a Shenzhen-based operations director at a foreign firm and a Sam's Club premium member who pays 600 yuan a year for the privilege, said her trust in the brand was eroding. 'This chocolate pie is just the trigger,' she said. 'The real concern is that Sam's standards for supplier quality may be slipping.'

What to Expect From Walmart's Next Quarterly Earnings Report
What to Expect From Walmart's Next Quarterly Earnings Report

Yahoo

time6 days ago

  • Business
  • Yahoo

What to Expect From Walmart's Next Quarterly Earnings Report

Bentonville, Arkansas-based Walmart Inc. (WMT) runs supermarkets, warehouse clubs, cash and carry stores, and discount stores. With a market cap of $764.9 billion, Walmart operates through Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam's Club segments. The retail giant is expected to announce its second-quarter results on Thursday, August 21. Ahead of the event, analysts expect Walmart to report a profit of $0.72 per share, up 7.5% from $0.67 per share reported in the year-ago quarter. Moreover, the company has consistently surpassed the Street's bottom-line estimates in each of the past four quarters. More News from Barchart Dear Microsoft Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 30 Dear QuantumScape Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for July 23 NVDA Broken Wing Butterfly Trade Targets A Profit Zone Between 150 and 160 Stop Missing Market Moves: Get the FREE Barchart Brief – your midday dose of stock movers, trending sectors, and actionable trade ideas, delivered right to your inbox. Sign Up Now! For the full fiscal 2026, Walmart's EPS is expected to come in at $2.60, up 3.6% from $2.51 reported in fiscal 2025. In fiscal 2026, its earnings are expected to further surge 11.5% year-over-year to $2.90 per share. Walmart's stock prices have soared 35.4% over the past 52 weeks, significantly outperforming the S&P 500 Index's ($SPX) 14.5% gains and the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLP) 4.9% uptick during the same time frame. Despite reporting better-than-expected results, Walmart's stock price observed a marginal dip in the trading session following the release of its Q1 results on May 15. Driven by solid comparable sales growth, the company's total revenues for the quarter grew 2.5% year-over-year to $165.6 billion, surpassing the Street expectations. Further, its adjusted EPS inched up by a modest 1.7% year-over-year to $0.61, beating the consensus estimates by 7%. Following the initial decline, WMT stock prices gained nearly 2% in the subsequent trading session. Analysts remain optimistic about Walmart's prospects; the stock holds a consensus 'Strong Buy' rating overall. Of the 36 analysts covering the stock, opinions include 29 'Strong Buys,' six 'Moderate Buys,' and one 'Hold.' Its mean price target of $110.86 suggests a 15.9% upside potential from current price levels. On the date of publication, Aditya Sarawgi did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

How Walmart is Positioning for Comp Growth Amid Consumer Shifts?
How Walmart is Positioning for Comp Growth Amid Consumer Shifts?

Globe and Mail

time21-07-2025

  • Business
  • Globe and Mail

How Walmart is Positioning for Comp Growth Amid Consumer Shifts?

Walmart Inc. WMT is refining its strategy to align with rapidly shifting consumer behaviors. In the first quarter fiscal 2026, Walmart U.S. delivered comp growth of 4.5% driven by transaction improvement of 1.6% and an average ticket increase of 2.8%, as well as strong e-commerce growth. Complementing this performance, Sam's Club U.S. posted a robust 6.7% increase in comparable sales, excluding fuel. The growth was primarily volume-driven, with strength in Member's Mark products. A major driver of this traffic momentum is Walmart's expansion of store-fulfilled delivery, now reaching 93% of U.S. households with delivery in under three hours. In the fiscal first quarter, one-third of Walmart's deliveries were expedited, underscoring the increasing role of convenience in driving customer visits. Membership remains another key growth lever. Walmart+ membership income rose at a double-digit rate. The company's health and wellness category surged with high-teens growth, supported by strong prescription volume and over-the-counter product sales. To reinforce its price leadership, Walmart implemented more than 5,000 price reductions during the quarter. Walmart's strategy reflects a retail model that integrates stores, digital convenience and membership-driven engagement. By prioritizing faster fulfillment, competitive pricing and a broader customer reach, Walmart is positioning itself to drive steady same-store sales growth while adapting to evolving consumer demands in a highly competitive retail landscape. Walmart's Comp Growth Compared With Target and Costco Target Corporation TGT reported a 3.8% decline in comparable sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, driven by weaker discretionary demand. However, Target continues to prioritize same-day services, with Drive Up accounting for nearly half of digital sales in the quarter. Target expanded the Target Plus marketplace, growing GMV more than 20%, aiming to enhance assortment and offset comp pressures. In contrast, Costco Wholesale Corporation COST reported 5.7% total company comparable sales growth in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, with U.S. comparable sales up 6.6%. Costco benefited from strong traffic and private label gains via Kirkland Signature. In addition, Costco is using local sourcing and strategic inventory management to maintain volume-driven comparable sales growth despite inflationary and tariff headwinds. WMT's Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates Shares of Walmart have gained around 0.4% in the past three months compared with the industry 's growth of 0.3%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, WMT trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 34.74X, significantly up from the industry's average of 31.99X. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WMT's fiscal 2026 earnings implies year-over-year growth of 3.6%, whereas the same for fiscal 2027 indicates a year-over-year uptick of 11.7%. WMT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. One Big Gain, Every Trading Day To help you take full advantage of this market, you're invited to access every stock recommendation in all our private portfolios - for just $1. Zacks private portfolio services that closed 256 double and triple-digit winners in 2024 alone. That's about one big gain every day the market was open. Of course, not all our picks are winners, but members have seen recent gains as high as +627% +1,340%, and +1,708%. Imagine how much you could profit with a steady stream of real-time picks from all our services that cover a number of strategies to suit a variety of investing and trading styles. See Stocks Now >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Target Corporation (TGT): Free Stock Analysis Report Walmart Inc. (WMT): Free Stock Analysis Report

Walmart Plans to Sell Vizio TVs Exclusively as a Private Brand
Walmart Plans to Sell Vizio TVs Exclusively as a Private Brand

Bloomberg

time17-07-2025

  • Business
  • Bloomberg

Walmart Plans to Sell Vizio TVs Exclusively as a Private Brand

Walmart Inc. plans to make Vizio a private-label brand by the end of the year and will sell its smart TVs exclusively at Walmart and Sam's Club, according to a memo viewed by Bloomberg News. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based company shelled out $2.3 billion to buy Vizio last year to boost its advertising footprint. Vizio TVs are currently sold at Inc., Target Corp. and other retailers, and the company also produces operating software.

Spot Pet Insurance Launches an ExclusivePet Rx Program Exclusively for Sam's Club Members
Spot Pet Insurance Launches an ExclusivePet Rx Program Exclusively for Sam's Club Members

Yahoo

time10-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Spot Pet Insurance Launches an ExclusivePet Rx Program Exclusively for Sam's Club Members

Sam's Club Members Receive Up to 15% Discounted Spot Coverage Plans MIAMI, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Spot Pet Insurance, the fastest-growing pet insurance provider in North America,1 has launched a unique program exclusively for Sam's Club members. Sam's Club members can receive up to a 15% plan discount plus an additional 10% multi-pet discount on all added pets after the first2, access to over 110 pet medications at Sam's Club pharmacies for $80 or under7, and Spot's highly customizable pet insurance plans, designed to meet the needs of today's pet parents. "Pet owners can often face overwhelming financial challenges when it comes to their pets' health, with unexpected emergencies frequently exceeding $1,0008," said Spot Pet Insurance CEO Trey Ferro. "At Spot, we're committed to being a critical lifeline, offering affordable and impactful plan options to help ensure pets can get the care they need with less financial strain." The program for Sam's Club members from Spot Pet Insurance represents a significant evolution in how pet insurance and health benefits are delivered to consumers. Traditionally offered online, through veterinarians, or at adoption centers, pet insurance is giving Sam's Club members exclusive access to discounted premiums and, for the first time, lower prices on pet prescription medications. "Spot is launching the first of its kind pet prescription benefit program fully integrated with participating Sam's Club's retail pharmacies — eliminating pharmacy claim paperwork and reimbursement delays" said Sherri Keeth Sam's Club VP/DMM, Healthcare & OTC. "More than 110 commonly prescribed pet medications will be available directly at Sam's Club pharmacies for $80 or under, including treatments for allergies, anxiety, and more. Members can also have access to essentials like a select flea, tick, and heartworm preventative medication for cats and a select heartworm preventative medication for dogs for no out of pocket cost. " By incorporating these benefits into its member perks, Spot is introducing a new model that delivers meaningful savings to pet owners right at the point of purchase. In addition to the prescription benefit, Spot's customizable plans offer a level of flexibility and comprehensive coverage that is unmatched in the market.3 This program reflects Spot's overarching mission to help pets lead longer, healthier lives by helping to make pet insurance more accessible to all pet owners. Founded to address the significant gap in pet insurance adoption in the United States, Spot Pet Insurance has helped revolutionize the industry with a digital-first, direct-to-consumer approach—a bold strategy when the company first launched. At the time, about 2.8% of U.S. pet owners had insurance coverage for their pets, a stark contrast to the 30% penetration rate in the UK.4,5 Spot's innovative model, leveraging social media, celebrity partnerships, and an exceptionally user friendly experience, has helped increase the number of insured pets in the U.S. to 3.7%,6 making Spot one of the industry leaders in growth. About Spot Pet InsuranceSpot Pet Insurance is a passionate team of pet-health-obsessed pet parents driven by a shared vision to educate, empower, and engage pet lovers about the benefits of pet insurance. They aim to help pet owners pay for covered veterinary bills, ensuring that their dogs and cats can lead healthier, happier lives. To learn more about Spot Pet Insurance, please visit Sources: According to Similarweb's official 100 fastest-growing companies online report. 15% strategic partner discount available on every pet. 10% strategic partner discount in CA, MT, ND, NJ, NY. 5% in WA. Not available in HI, TN, or Puerto Rico. An additional 10% multi-pet discount available on all added pets after the first. Discounts vary and are subject to change. Based on MarketWatch's ratings of Best Pet Insurance Companies of June 2024, comparing 33 pet insurance providers North American Pet Insurance Industry Surpasses $3.5 Billion." NAPHIA, NAPHIA, 4 May. 2023, "Pet Industry M&A Update - Q2 2023." R. L. Hullet, "Pet Health Insurance Industry Continued Exceptional Growth Rate in 2023." NAPHIA, NAPHIA, 10 Apr. 2024, Exclusively available to Sam's Club members who are current Spot Pet Insurance policyholders. Prices listed in the program are based on specific quantities and manufacturers. Prices are subject to change without notice. The program prices apply only when the quantity filled matches the quantity specified on the program; higher doses may cost more. Program prices are available through participating Sam's Club pharmacies within the Spot Pet Rx Program and cannot be combined with other offers or insurance. Not available in VA or Puerto Rico or on Covered drugs may vary and subject to change without notice. The program price is not available if a drug is part of a compounded prescription. Program prices are not available to the general public and do not constitute Sam's Club usual and customary prices. Taxes or other fees may apply. Other restrictions apply. Terms subject to change without notice. Please consult with your veterinarian before administering any medications to your pets. Special pricing only available with Spot Pet Rx Program. See for more details. "Pet Insurance Statistics 2025" Forbes Advisor, Jan. 2, 2025, Independent and paid ad from Spot Pet periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits and exclusions may apply. For all terms visit Products, schedules, discounts, and rates may vary and are subject to change. More information available at checkout. Insurance plans are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company (NAIC #26581. A Delaware insurance company located at 11333 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85254) or United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113. Morristown, NJ), and are produced by Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. (NPN # 19246385. 990 Biscayne Blvd Suite 603, Miami, FL 33132. CA License #6000188). View original content: SOURCE Spot Pet Insurance

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store