That they have to keep records doesn’t explain why they need to KEEP those records?
Do you if Sams Club regularly hands over copies of customer records without a reason (meaning without a warrant).
And even if it’s a tax issue, how is the names and addresses of every customer going to help determine the sale.
When the IRS determines there has been a violation, they seek records to audit what really happened.
I suggested that this situation could be related to such an IRS violation, in which case it is very normal for the government to seek details about all transactions.
I don’t like the IRS rules at all, but under the law as it stands we are all subject to IRS investigation.