Walmart is trying to lure new people to its subscription membership service by offering a 10-cent discount per gallon of gas, double what the plan previously offered, and including more fuel stations for the savings.
People who are members of Walmart+ can now get 10 cents off per gallon of gas at more than 14,000 fuel stations across the country, including Exxon Mobil. Members also get discounts between 5 and 10 cents per gallon at Walmart and Murphy USA gas station locations.
Related: The Data Point: Do Consumers Spend More If They Belong to Membership Clubs?
According to a recent study by PYMNTS, 75% of respondents made purchases from Walmart — however, only 21% of consumers who shopped at Walmart have a Walmart+ subscription, compared to the 61% who made purchases from Amazon and have Prime.
PYMNTS data also show that Amazon Prime members spent 113% more than nonmembers, whereas Walmart+ members spend only 15% more than nonmembers each month when shopping online.
Related: Consumers Weigh Price, Service, Convenience When Shopping for Subscriptions, Report Shows
Murphy USA has 1,500 gas stations in 26 states, and over 1,100 sites are located at or near Walmart stores. Walmart has operated its own fuel pumps since 2016, with Murphy’s stations continuing to run its branded locations in Walmart parking lots.
A Walmart+ membership is $98 per year or $12.95 per month and includes free shipping at Walmart.com, free grocery delivery on orders of $35 or more, prescription discounts and other perks. Walmart’s major rival Amazon charges $14.99 a month and $139 a year for a Prime membership.
See also: After 18 Months, Walmart+ Still Needs 2 Things: More Members and More Spending
The retail giant launched its membership plan 18 months ago when the country was gripped by the pandemic and living life from home became the norm. Now, with inflation at a 40-year high and gas prices up 43% over last year, 10 cents off per gallon could have a lot of mileage in the family budget.
Read more: US Consumers Spend 10x More on Groceries at Walmart Than Amazon
The national average for a gallon of regular gas is $4.13 on Wednesday (April 27), according to AAA. That’s up more than 43% from last year’s per gallon price of $2.89.
“Ninety-one percent of our customers are aware of the increased prices at the pump, and nearly half of those told us they are changing behaviors because of them,” said Chris Cracchiolo, senior vice president and general manager of Walmart+.
“More access to a bigger discount will make a difference for our customers. We want Walmart+ to help our customers save time and money, not only when they’re shopping with us, but throughout their day. We’re excited to continue to find new ways to deliver for them,” Cracchiolo said.
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