If you’re an iPhone user and a Sam’s Club member, you’ve likely wondered whether you can use Apple Pay at the wholesale retailer to make your shopping experience more convenient.
In this article, we’ll explore Sam’s Club’s current stance on accepting Apple Pay and discuss alternative payment methods available to customers.
Does Sam’s Club Take Apple Pay?
As of 2024, Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay in-store or online. This may come as a surprise to many Apple users, as the contactless payment method has gained widespread acceptance at numerous retailers across the United States.
Sam’s Club’s decision not to adopt Apple Pay is likely due to their partnership with Walmart, which has its own mobile payment system called Walmart Pay.
Why Doesn’t Sam’s Club Accept Apple Pay?
Sam’s Club’s parent company, Walmart, has been resistant to accepting Apple Pay and other third-party mobile payment options. Instead, they have heavily promoted their own mobile payment app, Walmart Pay.
By encouraging customers to use Walmart Pay, the company can maintain control over customer data and avoid paying transaction fees to Apple.
Additionally, accepting Apple Pay would require Sam’s Club to update their point-of-sale systems, which could be a costly endeavor.
As a membership-based wholesale club, Sam’s Club’s primary focus is on offering low prices to their customers, and they may view the costs associated with accepting Apple Pay as a barrier to maintaining competitive pricing.
Alternative Payment Methods at Sam’s Club
Although Sam’s Club doesn’t accept Apple Pay, they do offer several other payment options for customers:
- Sam’s Club Scan & Go App: This app allows members to scan items as they shop and pay using their smartphone, reducing checkout times and minimizing contact with others.
- Credit and Debit Cards: Sam’s Club accepts major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. They also accept debit cards, including those with PIN-based transactions.
- Sam’s Club Credit: Members can apply for a Sam’s Club Credit Card, which offers cashback rewards on purchases made at Sam’s Club and other retailers.
- Cash and Checks: Traditional payment methods like cash and personal checks are also accepted at Sam’s Club.
- Walmart Pay: As mentioned earlier, Sam’s Club’s parent company, Walmart, has its own mobile payment system. While not directly accepted at Sam’s Club, some customers may find it convenient to use Walmart Pay at both retailers.
The Future of Apple Pay at Sam’s Club
As mobile payment technology continues to evolve, it’s possible that Sam’s Club may reconsider its stance on accepting Apple Pay.
However, given their current commitment to promoting Walmart Pay and maintaining control over customer data, it seems unlikely that Apple Pay will be accepted at Sam’s Club in the near future.
For now, iPhone users who shop at Sam’s Club will need to rely on alternative payment methods or consider using Walmart Pay if they frequently shop at both Sam’s Club and Walmart.
As always, it’s essential to stay informed about accepted payment methods at your preferred retailers to ensure a smooth and convenient shopping experience.
