"Costco this week rolled out its highly anticipated exclusive shopping hours for Executive Members, giving the warehouse giant's highest-paying customers a compelling new reason to justify their $130 annual membership fee. The new policy, which soft-launched in June but went into effect more broadly on Sept. 1, lets Executive Members access Costco warehouses one hour earlier than regular shoppers during weekdays and Sundays, and 30 minutes earlier on Saturdays."
"The move represents a calculated gamble by the retail powerhouse to reward its most valuable customers while potentially driving upgrades from its base-tier Gold Star members, who pay $65 annually. Executive Members already receive 2% cash back on purchases up to $1,250 annually, but the early-access perk adds a tangible benefit that addresses one of Costco's most persistent customer complaints: overcrowded aisles and lengthy checkout lines."
"Costco's decision comes at a time when the company is demonstrating robust financial health. The retailer generated $254.45 billion in revenue in 2024, marking a 5.02% increase from the previous year's $242.29 billion. The company's stock has delivered solid returns for investors year-to-date, over 5% as of midday Thursday, with shares trading approaching $960 compared to $910 at the start of 2025, demonstrating resilience in a volatile market environment."
Costco implemented exclusive early shopping hours for Executive Members, offering one hour earlier access on weekdays and Sundays and 30 minutes earlier on Saturdays. The benefit debuted in June and expanded broadly on Sept. 1. Executive membership costs $130 annually and already includes 2% cash back up to $1,250 annually. Executive Members constitute about 47% of the membership base but generate 73% of sales, creating strong incentive for perks that reduce crowding and checkout delays. Costco posted $254.45 billion in revenue in 2024, a 5.02% increase year-over-year. Total paid members near 80 million, and membership fees produced $1.24 billion in quarterly revenue.
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