Sam's Club lobs another salvo at Costco

In the latest move in its battle against Costco, Sam's Club is going to start accepting the very form of payment that Costco rebuffed earlier this year.



Starting Oct. 1, all Sam’s Club locations in the U.S. and Puerto Rico will take American Express cards at checkout. Earlier this yearCostco dropped its 16-year relationship with American Expressin favor of Visa after the two companies could not come to an agreement on new terms.



“We strive to give more value to our members – more savings, great experiences and quality merchandise,” said Tracey Brown, chief member officer of Sam’s Club. “The acceptance of the American Express card underscores our commitment to bring greater ease and flexibility to our members’ shopping experience. American Express – known for their exceptional customer service, loyal, higher-spending card members and advocacy of small businesses – will help to extend the value of membership.”



Sam’s Club will also accept American Express Bluebird prepaid debit cards, which are available exclusively in stores of parent company Wal-Mart.

Sam's Club, which operates more than 650 stores, has been making some changes to be less like its parent Walmart and more like Costco, including upgrading its auto buying program and stocking more organics.