I had to deal with the fine, very intelligent people at Dish earlier today, so I don't have the energy for a rant. Without going into details, let me also say that the bloom is off the rose at the 39th and May location and while I was formerly of the impression that's where they sent the good employees, I now consider them about the same level as the ones at sw 5th. The lack of training, care, and consideration for the customer appears to be a company-wide issue, and from what I can tell, pretty deeply ingrained into the culture.

It seems to me a year ago the threat of Costco being imminent scared them. A year later and it seems we're no closer to having one (not saying this is TRUE, just saying it seems this way, especially to the competition), and Sam's no longer feels they have a reason to run with no dog nipping at their heels.

They just need to train their employees and have proper management.

ALL those people have to do is count items and check off receipts. Not too much to ask that they make sure the device is properly charged and that they know how to use it.
I agree with the battery part, but the other issues sound like network connectivity issues. I used to work as a tech for the contractor that use to do IT work for Walmart and we were understaffed by 4 or 5 techs for this region. Most stores were in bad shape with several registers down and various other back end issues. I don't know if they ever found a contractor who could handle the workload better.

I sent them an email through their website.

However another huge frustration: You have to pick a club from their drop-down menu and the one at 39th & May was not even listed. So, had to send it through another club's address explaining the issues were actually for this particular location.

We'll see what comes of all this.

At the very least they need to train their employees not to grab your phone. It was an older lady who completely jacked up my phone in the process and it's just bad customer service, although she was very nice.

This is one of those areas where 'friendly' does not equate to good service. As I often say about places in OKC, those two things are two often viewed as the same thing.

Yah I stopped using Scan and go for that reason. its faster for me to use the self checkout and go on my way.

What I don't get—in the situations where their Scan and Go scanner isn't working—is why they can't just confirm visually that you've paid and let you go. That's all they do with the paper receipts anyway. Last time I was there they were having scanner issues and they made me stand there for ten minutes until it started working again. Is there some negative consequence of walking out of there without a payment confirmation scan?

We live closest to this location and love the fresh made tortillas. They have become my favorite breakfast food with eggs, ham, and cheese in them.

Last time I was as Sam's their handheld scanner wasn't working. After failed 3 attempts the employee let me leave.

What I don't get—in the situations where their Scan and Go scanner isn't working—is why they can't just confirm visually that you've paid and let you go. That's all they do with the paper receipts anyway. Last time I was there they were having scanner issues and they made me stand there for ten minutes until it started working again. Is there some negative consequence of walking out of there without a payment confirmation scan?

When you go to leave the store, all you do is hold up your phone which displays a bar code which they quickly scan through a hand-held device (that too often doesn't work properly or at all, due to the equipment or employee error) and then quickly count and verify your items.

The screen they scan does not list the items (or, I believe, even the # of them) so there is no way to verify anything before letting you pass. (I believe that shows on their hand-held device.)

Also, once they scan the barcode it goes into their database and your screen is cleared.


Lots of ways to get around this (such as showing the # of items) but they first have to admit they have a problem that needs fixing.

I will report back when (if) I hear back from them.

I absolutely love the app when they can manage it properly at the exit.

When you go to leave the store, all you do is hold up your phone which displays a bar code which they quickly scan through a hand-held device (that too often doesn't work properly or at all, due to the equipment or employee error) and then quickly count and verify your items.

The screen they scan does not list the items (or, I believe, even the # of them) so there is no way to verify anything before letting you pass. (I believe that shows on their hand-held device.)

Also, once they scan the barcode it goes into their database and your screen is cleared.


Lots of ways to get around this (such as showing the # of items) but they first have to admit they have a problem that needs fixing.

I will report back when (if) I hear back from them.

I absolutely love the app when they can manage it properly at the exit.

I haven't had much of an issue using the app at memorial or the nw expressway store. At first when it rolled out the person had to always go grab it but they seem to constantly hold it now and are ready to scan when I use it. I only use that app when going to Sam's as I don't have huge number of items and I don't like waiting in their lines.

When you go to leave the store, all you do is hold up your phone which displays a bar code which they quickly scan through a hand-held device (that too often doesn't work properly or at all, due to the equipment or employee error) and then quickly count and verify your items.

The screen they scan does not list the items (or, I believe, even the # of them) so there is no way to verify anything before letting you pass. (I believe that shows on their hand-held device.)

Also, once they scan the barcode it goes into their database and your screen is cleared.


Lots of ways to get around this (such as showing the # of items) but they first have to admit they have a problem that needs fixing.

I will report back when (if) I hear back from them.

I absolutely love the app when they can manage it properly at the exit.

Ah, thanks. I didn't realize the app wouldn't clear out without the scan. That's what I was trying to figure out.

Very happy to report after I sent them a note with the issues I had been having about the Scan & Go at exit, and since that time I've used the app 4-5 times with no issue at all.

I think it was a matter of having the employees make sure their device is charged and working properly before people come to them for the final scan.

It's a fantastic bit of technology and since I live so close, I use Sam's as my go-to grocery store when I can. Even though the place is huge, I know where everything is, the prices are great, and that app means I'm in and out of there as fast as I can walk to get the things I need.

I haven't used their Pickup service which would be even faster, in theory.

Very happy to report after I sent them a note with the issues I had been having about the Scan & Go at exit, and since that time I've used the app 4-5 times with no issue at all.

I think it was a matter of having the employees make sure their device is charged and working properly before people come to them for the final scan.

It's a fantastic bit of technology and since I live so close, I use Sam's as my go-to grocery store when I can. Even though the place is huge, I know where everything is, the prices are great, and that app means I'm in and out of there as fast as I can walk to get the things I need.

I haven't used their Pickup service which would be even faster, in theory.

When the pickup service worked, it was FANTASTIC. The check-in kiosk was in a very intuitive place near the front, you checked in and had the option to go pick up immediately, or choose some time to browse the store then go pick up. Browse the store, maybe pick up another couple items, go to the pick up area and check right out. Then they moved the kiosk to right by the pick up area, so you go check in and wait for someone to come to the pick up area, and that's assuming there's nothing blocking the kiosk. Dropped in yesterday and unfortunately they haven't moved the kiosk back where it belongs. My next order will be at the SW 5th store, if I'm going to get crap service then at least I'll go to the store closer to home.

Hurry up, Costco.

Just received this email... I believe they are using the photo space for their new optical dept.

*************

Sam’s Club Photo has gone digital!

You’ve surely noticed that the photo counter at your local club has closed. That’s because we’ve made the leap into the future. Now all of your fave photo products are online.

Don’t worry: if you have an order already in progress, you can pick it up at your Member Services Desk.

Sam’s Club Photo online is everything you already love, with the convenience of fast shipping directly to you or your club. Need creative gifts for your selfie-loving friends? They’ll love Canvas Prints, Photo Books and Calendars. Just shopping for yourself? You’ll love personalized stationery and desk art of your puppies.

We’ve got you covered. Shop online at photo.SamsClub.com.

Here are some of the stores set to receive the Optical area.

4731-208 Oklahoma City OK | 9000 NW Psge, Oklahoma City, OK 73132

7189-203 Oklahoma City OK | 4101 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73112

8117-214 Oklahoma City OK | 1900 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73134

6238-206 Owasso OK | 12905 E 96th St N, Owasso, OK 74055

6267-207 Edmond OK | 1117 W I- 35 Frontage Rd, Edmond, OK 73034

Photo Centers are being removed to make way for the Optical Center. Appears the Optical Area will have a separate exterior door to enter through with one side going to the Exam side and the other going to the Sales side. Sales side is open to the store as well.

I was thinking Norman would get one too.

I was thinking Norman would get one too.

It probably will. These were just the ones listed on the plans that I saw and could just be the first batch.

The Sam's at 1117 W I-35 Frontage Road, Edmond is getting what they call Shop-In produce and dairy coolers as well as a fresh juice bar.

This is the optical department at the 39th & May Sam's, very close to opening.

It's located to the left as you enter, in the spot of the old photo department.

http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/samsoptical030320a.jpg

Also at the 39th & May location they are installing a walk-in produce area in the southeast corner of the store:

http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/sams030320a.jpg

Glad to see lower cost prescription glasses options actually happen. That state question a couple years ago got defeated because of a bunch of scare tactics and was just protectionist thinking from optometrists.

Well Well Well, it appears Costco has made Sams decide to up their game, so to speak.

Competition is a wonderful thing, a monopoly is not.

They've changed their hours.

No more early shopping hours; open to everyone at 9AM and close at 8PM.

The produce cave is now open at 39th and May.

http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/sams041720a.jpg

Our Sam's in Norman still has some special hours going for seniors.
https://i.imgur.com/zRE5NRp.jpg

The one in Edmond has produce and dairy cave.

Looks like Sam's has restored their old hours, whereby Plus Members can get in at 8AM.

The problem with the senior and at risk hours, is that people who are not are coming because the store is open. Stores don't ask if the younger person is an at risk, so the stores are packed with people who are shopping because the store is open and defeats the whole reason for us seniors.

Another great tech improvement for Sam's...

At their gas station, instead of having to insert your membership card then your payment card, you can now use the Scan & Go app to scan a QR code on the screen at the pump and that takes care of the payment.

Really slick.

Kum & Go is deploying similar technology, at least near me. I think that will be a pretty common feature at gas stations in the next year. I could see OnCue deploying that as they tend to be pretty aggressive in amenities.

i have yet to try it.

Another great tech improvement for Sam's...

At their gas station, instead of having to insert your membership card then your payment card, you can now use the Scan & Go app to scan a QR code on the screen at the pump and that takes care of the payment.

Really slick.

Hoping Costco implements that, too. I can already use the app as my card at the door and the register, but would really like to at the pump as well, even if it's just to replace using the membership card.

Hoping Costco implements that, too. I can already use the app as my card at the door and the register, but would really like to at the pump as well, even if it's just to replace using the membership card.

i just wish costco would turn on the NFC readers at the gas pumps .. (they are already installed)

Hoping Costco implements that, too. I can already use the app as my card at the door and the register, but would really like to at the pump as well, even if it's just to replace using the membership card.

Right, you can use the Scan & Go app at Sam's as your membership card as you enter.

I don't even need my wallet at Sam's and can completely skip the checkout register.

Right, you can use the Scan & Go app at Sam's as your membership card as you enter.

I don't even need my wallet at Sam's and can completely skip the checkout register.

And there is kind of a loophole too. Anyone you trust with your login can also use the Scan and Go and add their own credit card. I let my family use my login since they only go to Sams one a year or so.

Right, you can use the Scan & Go app at Sam's as your membership card as you enter.

I don't even need my wallet at Sam's and can completely skip the checkout register.

I need re-evaluate starting my Sam's membership back up. Having gone to Costco for the past year, there are things about each that I like, and I don't think it would be a waste of money to have membership at each. I really miss the Scan and Go app.

I keep both memberships. It seem worth it to me to be able to shop both stores.

Another great tech improvement for Sam's...

At their gas station, instead of having to insert your membership card then your payment card, you can now use the Scan & Go app to scan a QR code on the screen at the pump and that takes care of the payment.

Really slick.

its sad how excited i was to see this added when i got gas last week! i always hated that i needed to carry my card just for gas because i never need it any other time.

i just wish costco would turn on the NFC readers at the gas pumps .. (they are already installed)

and costco NFC readers are now turned on at the pump ..

Can you guys explain NFC whatchacallit and what it will do for me?

Thanks in advance.

Can you guys explain NFC whatchacallit and what it will do for me?

Thanks in advance.

You can use your phone with Apple or Google Pay to pay wirelessly instead of sliding your debit card. At least, that's what it means at most places, I haven't used that at either Costco or Sam's yet.

Visited Sam's today for the first time in over a year. Mostly the same place, which is fine, but the meat selection was great. They actually have full ribeyes, as opposed to Costco (which strips the spinalis and makes rib cap steaks), and I picked up a 2-pack of prime strips for, I think, $12/pound. Full packer brisket for 2.67/pound, which is terrific.

I have the next 7 months or so to decide whether I renew Costco, but that Scan 'n Go app is a total game changer from my standpoint. All things being equal between the two, for my household's needs, that could be the deciding factor. For now, I'll be happy to have both in case one has an exclusive on something I need/want.

Can you guys explain NFC whatchacallit and what it will do for me?

Thanks in advance.


You can use your phone with Apple or Google Pay to pay wirelessly instead of sliding your debit card. At least, that's what it means at most places, I haven't used that at either Costco or Sam's yet.

it also lets you have contact less payments even if you just use your credit/debit card.

it also lets you have contact less payments even if you just use your credit/debit card.

Good point, none of my cards have it built in, yet, so I didn't even think about that.

I've been a Sam's member forever. The Scan and Go app is lifechanging. I couldn't imagine not having that available. I used it at the gas pump last week and it worked great.

I've never been in Costco but I'd like to take a look. If they had an app to check out yourself I'd have already joined. I was talking to my stepfather last night and he bought his new hearing aids at Costco for $1,500. The same ones were $4,000 at Sam's and $6,000 at a hearing aid store. That kind of pricing for something so important makes me want to give them my business.

^

When I lived in California, I was the biggest Costco fan around and they generally do a great job. And I really don't like Walmart.

But I live a mile from a nearly new Sam's and it's awesome. It's never that busy and the Scan & Go app is amazing.

I still have an active Costco card but it's a good drive and it's always super busy. I went several times when they opened but I rarely go these days. I may not renew my card and just renew if/when I feel compelled to buy something unique on-line.

You can buy stuff from Costco online without being a member, but there is a 5% surcharge. So you have to weigh the surcharge value vs the price of a membership.

I loved Costco when I lived in California, but now that I'm in SWOK, Sam's is a savior. I use their no cost shipping on an almost weekly basis for all kinds of household needs. It's better than Amazon. Does Costco offer free shipping to members? I think I've seen a $75 dollar minimum with additional surcharges on the goods. Rarely are prices higher at Sam's for shipped goods and there's no minimum limit.

^

When I lived in California, I was the biggest Costco fan around and they generally do a great job. And I really don't like Walmart.

But I live a mile from a nearly new Sam's and it's awesome. It's never that busy and the Scan & Go app is amazing.

I still have an active Costco card but it's a good drive and it's always super busy. I went several times when they opened but I rarely go these days. I may not renew my card and just renew if/when I feel compelled to buy something unique on-line.

They did away with my only complaint about the app now. I don't know when they changed the policy, but I recently noticed that you can now also purchase alcohol via the scan and go app. Prior to this, you had to go through the checkout lines for it. The app gives you a red barcode so that they know they should check ID (never happens for me, I'm too old!).

They also now use the same hand-held scanner at the door for all receipts, including Scan & Go.

It used to be they had to find and power-on the device just for Scan & Go and more than once I stood there as several people with paper receipts were waved through. No more!

I had mentioned my desire to switch to the new Amazon Pharmacy but when I saw they were going to charge about $40/month for the medication that costs me zero at Sam's, I stuck with Sam's.

And through this process, I learned that Sam's will mail your medications to you for no charge. Not sure if this is new or not but I'm going to try it on my next refill.

We had a Sam's membership for years. Then I let it go because we didn't use it enough. Last spring I joined again because I saw FB posts of Sam's sometimes having things no one else could stock. Never have been in there. I just can't bring myself to add another place I go inside. This COVID #%*+ sucks!

Does anyone know if the Sam's in Edmond has been requiring masks, even though the City of Edmond does not?


I ask because I wonder if the OKC stores will drop the requirement once the city mandate expires at the end of this month.

Does anyone know if the Sam's in Edmond has been requiring masks, even though the City of Edmond does not?


I ask because I wonder if the OKC stores will drop the requirement once the city mandate expires at the end of this month.

Good question with lots of national chains. They all mostly have used the “local ordinance” as reasoning

Does anyone know if the Sam's in Edmond has been requiring masks, even though the City of Edmond does not?


I ask because I wonder if the OKC stores will drop the requirement once the city mandate expires at the end of this month.

I was at the Sam’s in Edmond this morning. Employees were wearing masks. Most customers were masked, but several were not. I imagine that if they have a mask policy, they aren’t enforcing it any more.

I was at the Sam’s in Edmond this morning. Employees were wearing masks. Most customers were masked, but several were not. I imagine that if they have a mask policy, they aren’t enforcing it any more.

edmond walmart and sams no longer have the forced mask signs on their doors ..

I am one who wears and mask and social distances more then the 6 ft. I do around 15 ft from those without masks. These people just dont seem to care about us older folks who do social distance and mask. I did have another incident in the Edmond Sam's club this past week. These people just dont care and will run you over with their shopping carts. I have bad knees and cannot move fast. Why the heck do these people just if you dont move fast enough to get out of their way will literarlly knock you over with their carts. Yes larger middle aged men. No one seems to care about older women these days.

Dont say do the online. I've tried that and had over half my order out of stock when you could see people walking out the door with the items in their carts.

The Sam's in Norman still does 7am to 9am elderly folks shopping only time on Tuesdays.

I go in the morning during plus hours. I will have to remember about the 7 am on Tues. One thing I have noticed in the past when going to senior/at risk hours is that a lot of younger very able bodied people shopping. The stores will not ask if they are at risk and people know this and just go in and shop.

I think this is the reason some stores stopped having those hours is because it was packed with younger people.