Will Costco Become The Strictest Members Only Club Ever?
The big retailer has announced plans to screen membership cards as shoppers enter the store in the coming months.
The wholesaler will place scanning devices at store entrances to automatically verify membership at the door instead of at the checkout as previously required.
“Once settled, before entering, all members must scan their physical or digital membership card by placing the barcode or QR Code against the scanner,” the announcement explained.
Members who do not have their photo on their Costco membership card will be required to provide a photo ID and are encouraged to update their card with a photo at the membership desk.
Guests will still be allowed to enter but must be accompanied by a cardholder.
The automated process has been rolled out to several locations across Washington and California and has been used in the UK for several years.
Stores in New York, Florida, Texas and Pennsylvania have confirmed it will launch there soon, but haven’t announced exactly when.
Costco membership benefits include free samples, discounts on food, gas, home insurance, travel and groceries, plus an annual 2% bonus on qualifying purchases at its warehouses.
“We don’t think it’s fair for non-members to receive the same benefits and pricing as our members,” a spokesperson previously told Business Insider.
The new scanners are also said to be speeding up the checkout process and parking space turnover, according to the company.
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The new membership card scanners come as the national chain hits the membership divide, pushing ahead with technology updates amid rising membership fees.
Leaders have shared plans to put more technology in the store and add options like online shopping and in-store pickup.
They also announced an increase in annual membership fees for the first time in seven years for its customers in the US and Canada, effective September 1.
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The new policies are being credited with an increase in profits, rising to $1.68 billion in the third quarter ending in May 2024 — a 29% increase from a year ago, Fox News reported.
But don’t worry, Costco lovers — the $1.50 hot dog is safe.
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