If you’ve been to a Sam’s Club lately, you might’ve noticed something big: traditional checkouts are slowly disappearing. 

It’s true; the Sam’s Club checkout changes are happening, and they’re transforming how you shop. Thanks to AI retail technology and an enhanced Scan & Go system, your next trip might not involve a cashier at all. 

So, what does this mean for your wallet, your time, and the way you shop? Let’s break it all down.

Sam's Club Phases Out Checkout Lanes: What It Means for Shoppers

Sam’s Club has been offering Scan & Go shopping through its app since 2016, allowing members to scan items as they go and pay directly in the app. But, now, they’re going all-in on this approach. Traditional checkout lanes? They're being phased out in all 600+ stores.

Using the Sam’s Club app at checkout means no more waiting in lines, juggling items on the conveyor belt, or playing the guessing game of which lane will move faster. You just scan, pay, and walk out.

The Rise of AI Retail Technology

What’s powering this shift? AI retail technology is taking center stage. One of the biggest changes is how purchases are verified. Instead of showing your receipt to an employee at the exit, an AI-powered scanner will now check your items as you leave.

It’s all part of a bigger Sam’s Club store remodel happening across many locations, like the redesigned club in Grapevine, Texas. These changes are meant to make your shopping trip smoother, faster, and maybe even a little more enjoyable.

But, this isn’t just about tech; it’s about rethinking how a warehouse club works in the age of automation.

The Convenience Factor: A Blessing or a Budget Trap?

There’s no denying that a cashierless shopping experience is more convenient. You can grab your stuff, check out on your phone, and you’re done. No muss, no fuss.

The only potential downside is that it may make it easier to overspend. When shopping is that seamless, you might not notice how quickly your cart (and your total) adds up.

That said, Scan & Go can actually help you stick to a budget – if you use it wisely. Since you’re scanning as you go, you can monitor your total in real-time and make adjustments before heading to the digital checkout.

More Than Just Groceries

The Scan & Go system isn’t limited to groceries. You can use it to grab a pizza or drink from the Sam’s Club Cafe without waiting in line. Just order ahead in the app and pick up while you shop.

You can also use the app at the gas pump. Just scan the QR code and pay through your phone. It’s all part of creating a more flexible, on-the-go shopping experience that fits your schedule.

What About People’s Jobs?

Of course, not all the changes come without concern. As Sam’s Club leans into automation, the need for cashiers will likely decrease. While it’s unclear how many roles will be affected, it’s something people are thinking about.

The good news? Some of those roles are being reimagined. For example, in the Grapevine store, employees now serve as "member specialists," stationed near the entrance to help with the new system. It’s not the same as the traditional cashier job, but it’s not a goodbye, either.

A Peek into the Future of Sam’s Club

The Sam’s Club checkout changes are more than just a tech upgrade. They represent a shift in how we interact with retail spaces. With the power of AI retail technology and the growing role of mobile checkout, the warehouse club experience is evolving fast.

Whether you’re all about the bulk groceries, a quick snack, or cheap gas, the new Sam’s Club app at checkout makes it easier to get what you need and go. Just keep an eye on your total as you tap and scan; it’s way too easy to get carried away. Still, the future of retail is here, and it’s looking pretty frictionless.