I've watched a lot of new cos over the years. Many make the mistake of wanting to be "like" their cashiers/desk associates, especially if the cos was a cashier or desk associate before their promotion. Here's the thing - friends don't get friends coached. If these people really liked you, they wouldn't put your job in jeopardy. And that is what they are doing by not asking for plus or credit.
Seriously it isn't hard to get credit. Especially with 45 off 45. It pays for new memberships and they never have to use the credit card again. And half the time it pays for most of their groceries. It isn't even a hard sell.