Early-Bird Gets The Cart
The early bird may get the worm, but the Executive Member gets to Costco first. Beginning Sept. 1, warehouses open at 9 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays, and 9 to 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays.
Here is the scoop.
What Exactly Is Changing at Costco?
The policy was first announced in a June Instagram post where Costco laid out the new opening and closing times. Starting after Labor Day weekend, all warehouses will open at 9 a.m. for executive members only. Regular members can still come in starting at 10 a.m. According to reporting from TheStreet, warehouses were given a grace period to adjust through Aug. 31.
Who Qualifies for 9 a.m. Entry?
This perk is exclusive to Executive Members, Costco’s higher-tier loyalty plan, which costs $130 per year compared to $65 for a standard Gold Star card. It already comes with an annual 2% reward on qualified purchases, discounts on services, and a free household card.
In addition to the extended hours, Executive Members will now get a monthly $10 credit for same-day delivery as an additional perk.
Why Did Costco Add This Perk?
Costco has long noted that Executive Members make up a minority of cardholders but account for the majority of its sales, so giving them first dibs on shopping time is both a reward and a business strategy.
What About Weekend Hours for Everyone Else?
Costco didn’t leave its other members completely in the dust. As of the beginning of July, all warehouses began closing at 7 p.m. on Saturdays, instead of 6 p.m., according to USA Today, giving everyone a little more shopping time. Sundays remain the same.
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