Walmart CEO will unveil ‘different types of memberships’ after successfully launching two upgraded assistance programs

According to its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), WALMART has further plans for memberships after launching two programs.

In recent months, the major retailer launched Walmart+ Assist and a new travel program.

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The goal of Walmart+ Assist is to help those who receive certain government benefits.

Those eligible can get a membership for just $6.47 per month or $49 for a full year.

For the travel program, the retailer has partnered with Expedia to allow Walmart+ members to benefit from benefits.

Through the program, members receive five percent in Walmart cash when they book hotels, vacation homes, cars, rentals and activities with them.

Customers also receive 2 percent Walmart cash on flights and a flat rate on vacation packages.

Now Walmart CEO Doug McMillion said the company wants to add even more programs

“There will be different types of memberships, not just at Walmart but also at Sam’s Club and other places. So the behavior we’re looking for is organic repetition and greater share,” he said at the 30th annual Goldman Sachs Global Retail Conference.

McMillion didn’t provide further details about what the membership programs might look like – but said Walmart wants to “sell across the entire shopping cart.”

MORE WALMART CHANGES

But memberships aren’t the only thing Walmart has focused on.

According to CNBC, the retailer has expanded its in-store advertising and will offer free samples at demo stations at participating stores on weekends.

Not only can customers test products, but they can also scan a QR code with their phone.

According to CNBC, this gives them access to meal ideas, online shopping and seasonal information.

As part of its advertising efforts, Walmart plans to run more ads on its 170,000 digital screens and 30-second radio spots to reach customers.

However, Walmart is under fire because the ad screens will also expand self-checkout — and let’s just say shoppers aren’t fans of that idea.

For example, a person said on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Another reason to avoid the self-checkout lanes.”

“How to annoy your customers even more,” said another social media user.

This change is part of Walmart Connect, an advertising unit of the retailer.

Walmart says the service is designed to help create a “connection” between brands and consumers.

But there is some positive Walmart news.

Walmart is now offering customers the option to pick up their orders without plastic bags.

A customer who complained that Walmart had offered too many plastic bags in the past said in an X that he was “so happy I could cry.” post.

For more related stories, Dollar General will be making significant changes to its discounts.

And Chick-fil-A made a big change to how they order, but not all customers love it.