Costco is a wholesale chain in the United States and one of the most beloved retailers for all things bulk. While you may have spent countless hours perusing their expansive aisles and stocking up on your favorite items, some secrets about Costco remain hidden from the average shopper.
Costco’s Famous $1.50 Hot Dog
You may have noticed that the food court at Costco is always crowded, especially around lunchtime. This is because of their famous hot dog deal – a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog and 20-ounce soda for only $1.50! This has existed since the beginning and has always stayed the same, even with inflation. Costco sells over 100 million hot dogs every year, making it the biggest seller of hot dogs in the world.
The Costco Effect
Have you ever gone into Costco to buy just one or two things but left with a cart full of items? This is called the “Costco Effect”. Customers buy more than they initially intended by offering bulk sizes and discounted prices. So next time you go into Costco for just a pack of toilet paper, don’t be surprised if you leave with a new TV and a lifetime supply of snacks.
Costco Started From Humble Beginnings
Costco was founded in 1976 by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman in an airplane hangar in San Diego, California. They initially operated under the name “Price Club” and focused on selling to small business owners. In 1983, Costco merged with another warehouse club called “The Wholesale Club,” where they adopted the name and business model we know today. And the rest, as they say, is history.
The Treasure Hunt Experience
One of the things that sets Costco apart from other retailers is its unique store layout. Costco has a “treasure hunt” approach to shopping where customers must navigate through aisles and displays filled with constantly changing and unexpected products. This makes shopping more exciting and encourages customers to explore different parts of the store and potentially buy things they didn’t even know they needed.
Employee Benefits
Costco treats its employees well, with hourly wages above industry standards and benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans. However, Costco also offers some unique perks to their employees, such as the annual employee appreciation party and generous discounts on products.
The Kirkland Signature Brand
When you shop at Costco, you’ll notice that many products are branded as “Kirkland Signature .”This is Costco’s exclusive brand, and it accounts for almost 25% of the store’s sales. Kirkland is named after the city where Costco’s headquarters are located in Washington state. The Kirkland Signature products are known for their high quality and affordable prices, making them a staple in many households.
The Rotisserie Chicken
Another one of Costco’s well-known deals is its rotisserie chicken. At just $4.99, it’s almost impossible to find a better deal for a fully cooked 3-pound chicken. Costco sells over 60 million rotisserie chickens each year; it’s a successful strategy to attract more customers with its low prices.
The Return Policy
Did you know that Costco has a generous return policy? They have a “no questions asked” policy where customers can return almost any item for a full refund, even if used. This is just another way Costco prioritizes customer satisfaction and loyalty.
The Kirkland Signature Vodka
One of Costco’s most popular products is its Kirkland Signature vodka. It is made by the same company that produces Grey Goose, one of the most popular premium vodkas in the world. Costco has sold its Kirkland Signature vodka at a significantly lower price because they buy it in bulk and bottle it themselves.
Starbucks Roasts Costco Coffee
Another surprising fact about Costco’s products is that Starbucks roasts its coffee beans. With a partnership for over 20 years, Costco has offered premium quality coffee at lower prices thanks to its high sales volume. .
A Product With an Asterisk Has a Meaning
A product with an asterisk (*) at Costco indicates that it is discontinued and will no longer be restocked. This often leads to customers rushing to buy these products before they are gone for good, adding to Costco’s “treasure hunt” experience. So next time you see an asterisk on a product at Costco, you should grab it before it’s gone!
Costco Has a Unique Pizza Supply Chain
The company has its pizza sauce factory in California and a cheese plant in Washington. This allows Costco to control the quality and cost of their pizza, making it one of the best deals in the food court. Costco’s pizza dough is made fresh daily at each location using high-quality ingredients.
You Don’t Need a Membership Card to Shop at Costco
While having a membership card is necessary to purchase items at Costco, anyone can walk into the store and browse without one. This is another way that Costco promotes its business model and attracts potential customers.
Costco Imports Wines From All Over the World
Costco is known for its wide selection of wines, many of which are imported from France, Italy, and Australia. Costco often sells these wines at a lower price than other retailers, making them a go-to destination for wine enthusiasts looking for a good deal.
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