Costco’s New Executive Member Shopping Hours Begin
So here’s what’s happening with Costco, and it’s stirring up quite a bit of conversation. Starting this Labor Day, the company’s new shopping policy is officially in effect, and it’s changing the way members can access the warehouse. For months now, there’s been talk about early shopping privileges for Executive Members, and while it was tested quietly over the summer, Costco is now making it permanent across all locations.
Here’s the setup: if you’re an Executive Member, you’ll now be able to get inside the store from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on weekdays. Everyone else—those with Gold Star or Business memberships—will have to wait until 10 a.m. to start shopping. It’s a one-hour head start that some shoppers have been enjoying since June, though Costco admitted the rule wasn’t strictly enforced during the trial period. But with the grace period officially ending, that early window will be reserved exclusively for Executive Members going forward.
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Not everyone is thrilled with this change. Some longtime shoppers feel that Costco is playing favorites, rewarding those who pay more for the higher-tier membership while making standard members wait. For people who’ve gotten used to showing up early to avoid the crowds, this shift may feel like being pushed to the sidelines. On the other hand, Executive Members are being reminded of the perks they’re paying for.
And to be fair, those perks do add up. Executive Members already enjoy the same benefits as Gold Star members—like warehouse access, gas station use, and a free household card—but they also earn 2% back on qualified purchases each year. In addition, they now get a monthly $10 credit when they place orders of at least $150 through Costco’s Same-Day delivery or Instacart service. And let’s not forget, Costco recently extended Saturday hours for everyone, keeping warehouses open until 7 p.m. since July.
The company seems to be betting that these incentives, especially the early access, will encourage more members to upgrade their plans. But it’s clear the move comes with mixed feelings. Some shoppers welcome the extra space and calmer shopping environment that comes with fewer people in the aisles. Others see it as Costco creating two tiers of loyalty, with one group given priority treatment.
And one quick note to keep in mind—Costco is closed on Labor Day itself, so the new policy actually takes effect the day after the holiday. From Tuesday on, though, Executive Members get their early shopping slot, and standard members will be following an hour behind.
So, whether you love the change or not, it’s here. If you’re paying for that Executive Membership, you’ll probably see the benefit right away. If not, you might have to decide whether waiting until 10 a.m. feels like a deal-breaker—or maybe even a reason to upgrade.
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