Costco is implementing major changes that will affect its members across the United States. Starting June 30, Executive-level members will have exclusive access to the stores one hour earlier than Gold Star and Business members. This modification is part of the chain's efforts to improve the experience of its most loyal customers.
The change comes with an informational sign in Costco warehouses, alerting about the new schedule and a grace period for members. This strategy aims to improve the smoothness of the transition and increase Executive members' satisfaction.
Costco's new schedule
Starting June 30, Executive members will be able to enjoy an extra hour of shopping. This exclusive access will be from Monday to Friday, from 9 to 10 a.m., and on Sundays from 9 to 10 a.m.; on Saturdays, they'll have access from 9 to 9:30 a.m.
During this period, members will be able to take advantage of the best deals before the rest of the shoppers. This measure is already being implemented in Costco stores that open at 9 a.m. (9:00) seven days a week.
Additionally, Costco will extend its hours on Saturdays, closing at 7 p.m. instead of 6 p.m. This extension will allow members of all levels to shop more comfortably. However, the measure has also caused some criticism, both among employees and shoppers themselves.
Reaction of members and employees
Although many Executive members applaud the initiative, others aren't as enthusiastic. Some have expressed on social media that they'd prefer to see other benefits instead of early access to the stores, such as the return of certain products like the combination pizza. Others have requested improvements in the product scanning process in the stores, which would make their shopping experience easier.
Meanwhile, Costco employees have also voiced their discontent. They claim that this new early opening schedule will make their shifts even harder to cover, which are already difficult. Some workers mention that, due to the new hours, they'll be forced to start their shifts much earlier than usual, which will considerably increase their workload.
Additional changes in Costco
This schedule adjustment isn't the only major change Costco has underway. In the coming months, the chain is also expected to modify its food court nationwide. This change affects the popular $1.50 hot dog combo, which could undergo alterations.
Additionally, Costco has implemented a new payment system, which is already being tested among employees. This modification is expected to be extended soon to all customers, which will make transactions inside the stores even easier.