"When Dani was there, Costco's setup had just three basic options in their pump dispensers. Worse, it didn't look very sanitary - there was a lot of sauce splatter around the station. What started as a single hot dog cart turned into Costco's iconic food court, and even if that $1.50 hot dog was a steal, the condiment bar didn't make it appetizing. Additionally, the pumps also mean there'd be a line while people are dressing their food, which can be a nightmare scenario of held-up lines on weekends or busy hours."
"Sam's Club's approach to their condiment bar was completely different, but surprisingly simple and efficient. Instead of pumping stations, the condiments come in individual packets arranged in bins right next to the napkins and disposable utensils. Not only is it cleaner and more efficient (people can just grab what they want and go without holding up other diners), but Sam's is able to offer more options, too. While Costco only offers three options (ketchup, mustard, and relish) when Dani was there, Sam's offerings were a whole lot more expansive. In addition to all three of these classics, it also offers mayo, sauerkraut, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes in packets. You've got more wiggle room to customize your hot dogs and sandwiches to your liking while you're at Sam's."
Warehouse food courts attract devoted customers for low-cost meals. Costco's condiment setup relied on pump dispensers offering just ketchup, mustard, and relish, and showed visible sauce splatter. Pump stations created bottlenecks as diners dressed their food, slowing lines during busy periods. Sam's Club uses individual packets arranged in bins next to napkins and utensils, enabling quicker self-service and less mess. Sam's also provides more condiment choices, including mayo, sauerkraut, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes, allowing greater customization of hot dogs and sandwiches compared with Costco's limited options.
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