Sam's Club Implements Chip-Enabled Technology

By Christine Kern, contributing writer

New chip-enabled MasterCard Brings Technology to the U.S. Market

In a recent press release, Sam’s Club announced a credit card cash back program that gives members the opportunity to earn 5 percent cash back on fuel, 3 percent cash back on dining and travel, and 1 percent cash back on all other purchases, up to $5,000 annually.

The new Sam’s Club 5-3-1 cash back program on the co-branded MasterCard, issued by GE Capital Retail Bank, will be available starting June 23, to qualifying Sam’s Savings, Sam’s Business, and Sam’s Plus members across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. 

With the new cash back program, the new Sam’s Club program is becoming the most competitive credit reward program in the club category. The program also combines a cash-back loyalty program with peace of mind for security-minded shoppers. 

“We’re always looking for ways to find time and money-saving solutions for our members. The 5-3-1 Sam’s Club program and co-branded MasterCard mean industry-leading savings and security innovation for today’s consumer,” said Rosalind Brewer, president and CEO of Sam’s Club.

“Under the 5-3-1 cash back program, Sam’s Club members can earn up to $5,000 cash back annually. That could cover a family of four’s travel to Disney, or five sets of laptops and wireless phones for a small business. We believe this value is the best in the industry.”

 Another benefit of the new Sam’s Club MasterCard is its enhanced credit card safety, helping to allay the fears of today’s concerned consumers.  Sam’s Club is the first mass retailer to actively implement chip-enabled technology in its club cards.  The embedded chip technology is more difficult to duplicate, providing enhanced security and protection against fraudulent activity.

President of North America, MasterCard Chris McWilton called Sam’s Club a trailblazer in the industry, putting the new chip cards in the hands of businesses and consumers, and leading the shift toward a safer and more secure customer experience.   

“MasterCard has taken a strong stance on the need for the U.S. market to make the transition to chip-enabled credit cards for the benefit of cardholders and merchants alike,” he said.  “This will no doubt help drive chip-enabled technology forward here in the U.S. as it gains more traction.”

The new Sam’s Club MasterCard also includes these benefits:

• No annual fee, Sam’s Club membership required
• The new cobranded card can be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted across the globe
• Extended Warranty Coverage for Consumers and Extended Warranty Insurance for Businesses
• Identify Theft Resolution Services for Consumers and MasterRental Coverage for Businesses

“We have worked closely with Sam’s Club to enhance the shopping experience for Sam’s Club members, such as launching this 5-3-1 credit program,” stated Tom Quindlen, CEO of GE Capital Retail Finance’s Retail Cards platform. “This new program provides enhanced rewards for co-branded cardholders, who can manage their account and shop in-club, online and on the go, with easy to use rewards and greater savings.”

Now Sam’s Plus members have two ways to earn money back on their purchases with the new 5-3-1 program and exclusive Plus-only Cash Rewards program. Beginning June 12, all Sam’s Plus members will be automatically enrolled to receive $10 in Cash Rewards for every $500 spent on qualifying pre-tax Sam’s Club purchases, regardless of payment type.

Sam’s Plus members have access to earn up to $500 annually through Cash Rewards on top of earning up to $5,000 annually when they use the co-branded Sam’s Club MasterCard. These funds are redeemable for cash, for purchases in-club or on SamsClub.com, or to cover annual membership fees.

For additional details on the Sam’s Club credit card cash back program, visit SamsClub.com/newsroom.