If you’re used to using your partner’s Costco membership card for a solo shopping spree, you might encounter a new hurdle. With a recent update in their policy, Costco is tightening its entry rules to ensure that only members enjoy the benefits of their warehouse deals.
Costco is stepping up its efforts to prevent non-members from accessing their stores. The warehouse giant is introducing a new system designed to limit the use of unauthorized membership cards.
New Costco membership requirements
According to an official statement released in August, “Over the coming months, membership scanning devices will be installed at the entrance doors of your local warehouse. Once deployed, before entering, all members must scan their physical or digital membership card by placing the barcode or QR Code against the scanner.”
This new protocol is part of a broader initiative to ensure that membership benefits are reserved exclusively for those who have signed up. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Only the cardholder can use their membership card.
- Members will need to have either their physical or digital card ready for scanning.
- This policy change aims to enhance the membership experience by reducing unauthorized access.
As these changes roll out, shoppers should prepare for a more streamlined yet secure shopping experience at Costco. This move is expected to reinforce the value that Costco offers to its loyal membership base.
With the introduction of stricter measures, shoppers must now ensure they possess their own membership or are accompanied by a paying member to gain entry into the warehouse. This initiative highlights Costco’s commitment to preserving the exclusive benefits for its legitimate cardholders.
Key Points to Remember
- Membership cards, whether physical or digital, are essential for entry.
- Scanning devices will be strategically placed at warehouse entrances.
- Non-members need to be accompanied by a paying member to gain access.
As these updates are implemented, be sure to have your membership ready to continue enjoying the perks of shopping at Costco.
Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Memberships & Product Prices Compared
Being a member of Costco offers more than just the famous $1.50 meal deal. The iconic hotdog and soda combo have become synonymous with value, demonstrating Costco’s commitment to keeping prices low, even in the face of rising inflation.
In recent times, the company has made a strategic move by successfully reducing prices on a substantial number of its private-label products. This initiative is not just a pricing strategy; it’s a commitment to maintaining the loyalty of its valued members. Such loyalty is a cornerstone of Costco’s enduring success.
Membership Retention: A Key to Success
Costco’s capability to keep prices stable is a significant factor in retaining its members. This loyalty is crucial for sustaining the company’s thriving business model. In fiscal 2024, Costco saw its membership fee revenue soar to $4.8 billion, making up approximately 65% of the company’s net income for the year.
Costco is cracking down on membership sharing with new card-scanning rules
In a few months, Costco will require members to scan their membership card barcode at entry. This will pull up the member’s account and associated photo to verify their identity.
- If no photo is on file, the member will need to present a valid photo ID matching the name on the membership card.
- Non-members can enter and shop with a member. The new rules aim to prevent sharing membership cards with friends and family. They also aim to stop multiple households from sharing one membership.
- Costco offers two types of household memberships:
- Gold Star ($60/year)
- Executive ($120/year with 2% rewards on purchases)
- Both allow two people to be registered members
- Costco first started testing this new entry system at select stores in January 2024.
