S'pore's 1st membership-only supermarket: 10 FAQs answered

SINGAPORE - NTUC FairPrice opened its Warehouse Club yesterday, the first membership-only retail warehouse in Singapore for groceries and household consumables.

Carrying a product range of 4,000 items, the mega retail store follows a similar format of successful membership-based stores in countries such as the US, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Australia. The concept store sees shoppers enjoy very steep discounts by buying in large quantities.

We list out answers to 10 frequently asked questions about the Warehouse Club.

1. What is Warehouse Club (WHC)?

WHC is a membership based warehouse retail club. It is the first and only warehouse club in Singapore for groceries and household consumables.

WHC is a different retail format from regular FairPrice supermarkets - it is a warehouse retail store that offers savings through bulk buys, value packs and exclusive brands not available at FairPrice supermarkets.

The business model of WHC is a retail concept that is rampant overseas. By operating in a lower cost suburb area outside the city, WHC passes on savings to customers.

2. What are the benefits if I sign up for Warehouse Club Card?

You will see savings by paying low prices for great quality. You will also gain access to popular overseas brands you cannot find in normal supermarkets.

Members will receive exclusive savings and offers each month on merchandise throughout the club, including fresh produce, meats and groceries, as well as NTUC Fairprice's own brands.

Enjoy first two hours free parking at the mall with a minimum spend of $100 nett in one receipt.

3. How can I apply for WHC membership?

Download the form here and make payment at any FairPrice store (for PLUS members) apply on line through https://plus.com.sg/top-favorites/fairprice-warehouse-club-membership.

4. How much is the membership fee?

Public: $50 per year
Union Member: $35 per year.

You may pay via cheque made payable to "NTUC Fairprice Co-operative Limited" (Please write on cheque reverse side "Attention: Warehouse Club") or pay at any FairPrice store. Each person is only allowed to sign up for and own one Warehouse Club membership card.

5. Can I share my WHC membership card with others?

This card is non-transferable and its annual fee is non-refundable. Members may bring along accompanying guests but the member must be present at point of purchase to present the card to the cashier.

6. If I forget to bring my WHC membership card but I provide other forms of identification, can I still make purchases at WHC?

WHC Management requires members to present the membership card to the cashier at the point of purchase.This will ensure that WHC serves and dedicates its exclusive products and savings to members only. For clarifications, members may approach customer service managers at the store for assistance.

7. When will I receive my WHC membership card after payment?

The card will be mailed to you within three weeks from date of payment. Membership is valid for one year from date of issuance.

8. What are the payment options available at WHC?

Visa, MasterCard, Diners, Amex, JCB, NETS, Cash.

9. Can I use my LinkPoints for redemption?

No, LinkPoints is not available for redemption and issuance. There are no LinkPoints or rebates given as WHC already rewards its Members through bulk savings and offering low cost and exclusive products at bargain prices. The Just Wine Club (JWC) Card is also not accepted.

10. Does WHC provide delivery?

Delivery is available for electronic items at a nominal fee and within Singapore. WHC does not deliver to outlying islands and restricted areas.