Photo by Grant Beirute on Unsplash
Costco Trials Membership Verification Before Entry
January 16, 2024
Costco Wholesale is currently exploring new ways to ensure the exclusivity of its membership. The experiment involves scanning membership cards at the entrance of warehouses. This move aims to confirm that the photo on the membership card matches the person holding it.
This strategy was initially sighted in the Issaquah, Washington, warehouse, right next to Costco’s headquarters, according to insider reports. Customers approaching the warehouse had to scan their membership card on a tablet device before being allowed inside.
Quick to react, Costco’s faithful shoppers have shared mixed feelings about this new development online. Some were thrilled about the added exclusivity and members-only environment. They appreciated no longer having to dig out their membership card at the checkout counter but having it verified right at the entrance.
However, this new strategy didn’t sit well with all members. Many expressed concerns about potential long queues at the entrance, leading to a less-than-smooth shopping experience. There were also frequent mentions of outdated membership photos posing a potential challenge to this verification process.
Adding to its exclusivity, Costco has always kept a few perks under its belt, like the Costco pharmacy, accessible even to nonmembers. These customers can pay for prescriptions with cash, debit, Costco Shop Cards, or a Visa card. However, for any other purchases within the warehouse, a valid paid membership is necessary.
Speaking of memberships, Costco offers two tiers: $60 annually for Gold Star and $120 for Executive Gold Star. The brand’s continued success is evident in its ever-growing string of warehouses. Coming in at a staggering 871 locations spread across the globe, Costco’s majority presence is still held in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Costco’s latest financial update boasted net sales of approximately $26.15 billion in December alone, reflecting a healthy 9.9% increase compared to the previous year. While Costco did not provide an official comment on the new scanning system, insiders mention it has been implemented in select locations.
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