Recently, Costco extended the operating hours of its gas stations to allow more customers to take advantage of their time and fill up their vehicle’s gas tank. Now, many users are wondering if this extended schedule will also apply to the stores. The company has already made a statement—here’s everything we know.
Will Costco extend the hours of its stores?
The extended gas station hours have made it easier for customers to refuel their vehicles before or after work, solving the common issue of not finding an open station. A similar situation applies to those who need to shop for groceries or other items outside typical store hours.
In its most recent earnings report, the company stated that it is constantly reevaluating its strategy and may now consider extending the general operating hours of its warehouse clubs, given the strong results from the extended gas station hours.
So far, nothing has been officially confirmed, but customers can expect an announcement about store hour changes soon. Be sure to stay tuned!
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What are Costco gas station hours?
Currently, most Kirkland Signature gas stations, which are part of the Costco brand, operate on the following schedule:
- Monday to Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
How many Costco locations are there in the United States?
Currently, the company operates 897 stores worldwide, 617 of which are in the United States and Puerto Rico. With the opening of six new locations in the United States, the total number of stores will reach 903.
Additionally, the company has a presence in several countries, with 109 stores in Canada, 41 in Mexico, 36 in Japan, 29 in the UK, 19 in South Korea, 15 in Australia, 14 in Taiwan, 7 in China, 5 in Spain, and 2 in France, with one store each in Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden.
What types of memberships does Costco offer?
Gold Star Membership
This membership is ideal for those who shop occasionally, as it comes with a more affordable annual fee. It also includes the following benefits:
- Access to the warehouse
- Access to Costco gas stations
- Free household card
- Access to Costco services, such as car and home insurance, Costco Auto Program, pet insurance, and bottled water delivery.
Executive Membership
This membership offers a 2% annual reward, along with exclusive discounts and promotions. The benefits include:
- All the benefits of Gold Star
- 2% annual reward on qualifying purchases
- Free household card
- Access to Costco services with discounts on selected services
How much do Costco memberships cost?
- Gold Star Membership: $65 per year
- Executive Membership: $130 per year
Can I shop at Costco without a membership?
To shop at any Costco warehouse, you must be a member. However, those without a membership can purchase prescription medications freely or buy any item in the warehouse using a gift card.
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How many people can enter Costco with a membership card?
According to membership and card use policies, the company allows each member to enter the store accompanied by up to two guests during their shopping visits.
History of Costco
The company dates back to 1976, when Sol Price founded Price Club in San Diego, California. Initially, the company focused exclusively on serving business customers, but over time, it expanded its strategy to include individual consumers through a membership system.
In 1983, Sinegal and Jeff Brotman founded Costco Wholesale in Seattle, Washington. The company grew rapidly, reaching $3 billion in sales in just six years.
In 1993, Price Club and Costco merged, forming PriceCostco, which had 206 stores and annual sales of $16 billion. Eventually, in 1997, the company adopted its current name: Costco Wholesale.
The company’s operational strategy focuses on maintaining low costs and passing those savings onto its members by offering a limited selection of products characterized by quality, price, brand, and distinctive features. Its membership model has been a differentiating factor in the retail industry. Today, Costco has a global presence in key markets and has surpassed $64 billion in annual sales.
