MADISON, Ala. — UPDATE (8/17): Prior to its grand opening slated for the end of this year, BJ's Warehouse has announced the opening of a Membership Center, where customers can sign up for the passes required for entry to the club.
Interested customers can visit 8760 Madison Blvd. Suite H, in Madison to purchase their memberships. The center will be open Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., between August 18 and November 9.
Our original reporting continues below:
In the world of warehouse discounting, North Alabama residents have known two contenders: Costco and Sam's Club. However, in early 2023, a third competitor will enter the arena. BJ's Warehouse, a primarily east-coast chain with more than 230 locations, will open its first Alabama location at Town Madison.
Like the other two chains, Massachusetts-based BJ's runs on a membership model. BJ's website states they currently have 6.5 million members across its locations. Households or businesses pay a yearly fee to access oversized packs of food, sundries, healthcare items, and office supplies. A working deli and service bakery are included in their floorplans. Foodservice supplies like containers, plastic wrap and cleaning solutions are also stocked. Customers can also find a wide array of electronics, clothing, and seasonal merchandise among special bargains.
All three clubs also sell gasoline at many of its locations, with purchases restricted to members only. The price per gallon can often be 10-20 cents cheaper than neighborhood gas stations, if not more. About two-thirds of BJ's locations also have gas canopies.
According to corporate press materials, each club employs about 150 people. Job listings for the Madison location have not been posted as of February 14.
BJ's joins a growing roster of shops and restaurants being prepared to open at the Town Madison mixed-use community, including Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, Lola's Cocina, and a Margaritaville Hotel.
The development sits near the Singing River Trail and Toyota Field.
BJ's is also entering the Tennessee market with an announced club opening in La Vergne later in 2023.