Costco is officially launching a new rule that gives Executive Members exclusive shopping hours starting September 1. The perk was first introduced in June, followed by a grace period, but it is now fully in effect.
From today, customers with the Executive Membership can enter Costco stores between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on weekdays. On Saturdays, the exclusive window is shortened to 30 minutes, allowing Executive Members to shop from 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. All other shoppers are permitted entry starting at 10 a.m. on weekdays and 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays.
The policy has drawn mixed reactions from members. Some shoppers have expressed frustration over restricted store access, while Costco maintains the change is a reward for its most loyal customers. The company stated, “Our Executive Members are our most loyal members, and we want to reward them for their commitment to Costco.”
Costco offers several membership tiers. The $65 Gold Star Membership is the basic level, while the $130 Executive Membership provides additional perks, including the early shopping window. A $65 Business Membership is also available but does not include the exclusive shopping hour. Earlier this summer, Executive Members received a $10 monthly credit as part of their benefits.
This update is part of several recent membership changes at Costco. Earlier this year, the retailer finalized a transition from Pepsi to exclusively Coca-Cola products in its food courts nationwide. The switch drew mixed reactions online, especially on Reddit, where customers debated the change. By fall, all Costco food courts will serve only Coca-Cola beverages.
Costco originally served Coca-Cola before switching to Pepsi in 2013. The change at the time was intended to maintain the price of its signature $1.50 hot dog combo. In January of this year, the company announced it would again replace Pepsi, this time selling a soda brand endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
The exclusive shopping hour and beverage transition highlight Costco’s ongoing efforts to provide unique experiences for its Executive Members. While some customers have voiced dissatisfaction with these changes, the retailer emphasizes that the moves reward loyal members and maintain product pricing across stores.
Shoppers who plan to visit Costco should note that entry times now vary depending on membership type. Executive Members enjoy a quiet shopping hour in the morning, while other members must wait until standard opening times. The new policy aims to make shopping more convenient for premium members and improve store experience during peak hours.
Costco’s membership model continues to appeal to different types of shoppers. Those seeking basic access and savings can choose the Gold Star or Business tiers, while shoppers looking for additional perks may find the Executive Membership worthwhile. The added $10 monthly credit and early shopping window are designed to enhance value for paying members.
Industry analysts note that Costco’s approach aligns with trends in retail loyalty programs. Exclusive access, product perks, and member rewards are increasingly common strategies for encouraging customer retention. By providing an early shopping hour and other benefits, Costco hopes to strengthen loyalty among its Executive Members.
With the September 1 rollout, all Costco stores nationwide will implement the new early shopping hours. Members are advised to check local store hours and plan visits accordingly. As the retailer continues to refine its membership offerings, the company aims to balance customer satisfaction with rewards for its most dedicated shoppers.
Costco’s latest initiatives reflect a growing focus on premium membership benefits. For Executive Members, the early shopping hour offers a less crowded, more relaxed experience. Meanwhile, changes in food court offerings and product selections demonstrate the company’s ongoing efforts to manage costs and member preferences.
The exclusive shopping hour, combined with other perks like the $10 monthly credit and beverage changes, underscores Costco’s strategy of rewarding loyalty while streamlining store operations. Customers should expect continued adjustments as the retailer seeks to maintain its position as a leading membership-based wholesaler.
