Costco is known for its unbeatable prices, bulk savings, and generous member perks, but over the years, the warehouse giant has been making quiet cuts to some of its best benefits. While many customers haven’t noticed, several Costco perks have been reduced or eliminated to control costs and maintain profitability. These changes have left some longtime members frustrated as they see their membership benefits diminishing. From the food court menu to return policies, Costco is slowly shifting its approach to customer perks. Here’s a look at some of the most notable benefits that are quietly disappearing.
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1. The Disappearance of Executive Membership Upgrades
For years, Costco allowed members to upgrade to the Executive Membership level at no additional cost if their 2% annual cashback rewards exceeded the cost of the membership fee. This was a great perk for high-spending members, as it allowed them to upgrade without any real financial impact. However, Costco has quietly phased out this benefit, meaning customers now need to pay the full Executive Membership fee upfront and justify the cost with their spending. This change makes it harder for casual shoppers to justify upgrading, leading many to stick with the basic membership.
2. The Reduction of Free Samples in Stores
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One of Costco’s most beloved perks has always been its free samples, allowing shoppers to try new products before committing to a bulk purchase. However, some locations have scaled back on sample stations, reducing the variety of products available for tasting. Some stores have even limited free samples to weekends or high-traffic hours to cut labor and inventory costs. While samples haven’t disappeared entirely, the reduction has been noticeable for frequent shoppers. This small but significant change takes away one of the fun, interactive parts of the Costco shopping experience.
3. The Shrinking Food Court Menu
Costco’s legendary food court has undergone several changes in recent years, and not all of them have been popular. Menu items like the combo pizza and Polish hot dog were discontinued, disappointing many loyal customers. Other items, like ice cream sundaes and certain smoothies, have also disappeared from select locations. While Costco’s food court still offers budget-friendly options, the shrinking menu means fewer choices for members who rely on these affordable meals during shopping trips.
4. Stricter Guest Policies for Non-Members
Costco has also begun cracking down on non-members taking advantage of membership perks. Previously, members could bring multiple guests to shop with them, allowing non-members to purchase items at checkout under the member’s account. However, some locations have started enforcing a one-guest-per-member policy, making it more difficult for non-members to access Costco’s deals. This change ensures that only paying members benefit from Costco’s pricing, but it also limits the flexibility that some shoppers enjoy.
5. Gas Discounts That Are Less Competitive
For years, Costco’s low gas prices were a major draw for members, often being significantly cheaper than surrounding stations. However, as fuel prices have fluctuated, some members have noticed that Costco gas is no longer as drastically discounted as it once was. In some areas, the price difference between Costco and regular gas stations has shrunk to just a few cents per gallon, making it less of a major perk. With longer wait times at Costco pumps, some shoppers are questioning whether the slight savings are worth the hassle.
While Costco still provides great value, it’s clear that some of its best perks are quietly disappearing. From fewer free samples and a shrinking food court menu to stricter guest policies and weaker gas discounts, these small but noticeable changes impact the overall shopping experience. As Costco continues adjusting its business model, members may need to reevaluate whether the benefits still outweigh the costs. For longtime shoppers who relied on these perks, the changes may be disappointing, but Costco remains one of the most affordable warehouse shopping options available.
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