BJ’s Wholesale Club has reported sales growth in the first quarter, driven by the company’s continued focus on providing value to customers.

For the quarter ended May 2, the company’s net sales rose 9.9 per cent year-on-year to $5.2 billion.

Comparable club sales increased 6.3 per cent. Excluding the impact of gasoline sales, comparable club sales rose 1.5 per cent.

Membership fee income grew 11 per cent to $132.4 million, primarily driven by customer acquisition, retention and higher-tier membership penetration across both new and existing clubs.

“We delivered a strong first quarter as our value proposition continued to resonate with members across our clubs and at our gas stations,” said Bob Eddy, chairman and CEO.  

“Momentum in membership, fuel and digital sales reflects the disciplined execution of our teams and our focus on delivering value and convenience for the families who depend on us,” he added.

Merchandise gross margin rate, which excludes gasoline sales and membership fee income, decreased by approximately 10 basis points during the period, driven by the company’s continued investments in pricing, partially offset by tariff refund benefits.  

Net income decreased from $149.8 million a year ago to $142.7 million.

For the full year, the company expects comparable club sales, excluding the impact of gasoline sales, to increase 2-3 per cent. 

For the full fiscal year, BJ’s Wholesale Club lifted its net sales by 4.6 per cent to nearly $21 billion, underscoring the strength of its warehouse club model as consumers remain focused on value and bulk savings. Net income for the year rose 8 per cent to $578 million.