Can the Golden Age of Costco Last?
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The article 'Can the Golden Age of Costco Last?' examines the sustainability of Costco's successful business model, sparking discussion on the factors contributing to its success and potential challenges ahead.
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Nov 3, 2025 at 1:09 PM EST
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Most meats are now more expensive there - in bulk! - than at the local grocery, of similar quality. It used to be you could buy at Costco without price shopping and assume you'd get a premium product at a low price. Now I can get a better deal at the local supermarkets, or Sam's Club, which now beats Costco on price in my market every time.
Speaking of Sam's Club, the combination of their curbside pickup and "scan and go" make every visit a breeze. Costco has the most chaotic parking lot, crossed with the most chaotic checkout lines in the industry. It used to be that you could wave away the inconveniences of shopping at Costco because, as above, they used to have premium products at good prices. Now that those are largely gone, going just doesn't make sense at all.
I drive electric, so I have no use for their gas.
Their tires are no longer competitive with Tirerack.
Their toilet paper used to be great and now is kind of bad. Same with the paper towels.
Costco in my state does not carry liquor.
They've become a premium-priced brand without improving their products or experience, and the value isn't there for a membership any more. My local supermarket is generally known for being a fair employer, so Costco doesn't even have that going for them. I'm surprised given former positive feelings how much I've resented going there the last several times.