Starting Monday, June 30, Costco is rolling out new store hours nationwide, offering earlier access to its warehouses exclusively for executive members, Axios reports.
The update is part of a broader strategy to enhance the value of the company’s premium-tier membership following its first fee increase in nearly seven years.
Under the new policy, Costco warehouses will open daily at 9 a.m. for executive members. Regular store hours for all members will continue to begin at 10 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays, and 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays. The change also extends Saturday closing times by one hour, with clubs now closing at 7 p.m. instead of 6 p.m.
New Early Access Hours for Executive Members:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
To manage access, Costco will scan membership cards at the entrance to verify eligibility. Some departments, including the pharmacy and food court, will also participate in the early hours — though pharmacies will remain closed on Sundays.
The earlier access mirrors benefits long offered by competitors like Sam’s Club and is aimed at rewarding Costco’s executive members, who represent a significant portion of the company’s revenue. According to CFO Gary Millerchip, executive members account for over 47% of paid memberships but contribute 73.1% of global sales.
In addition to earlier shopping hours, executive members now receive:
A $10 monthly credit on same-day delivery or Costco orders via Instacart over $150.
Enhanced benefits on services such as Costco’s auto program.
In September 2024, Costco increased membership fees — Gold Star and Business memberships rose from $60 to $65, while Executive memberships increased from $120 to $130. Executive members continue to earn 2% back on eligible purchases.
Some warehouse locations that previously opened at 9 a.m. for all members have begun limiting that hour to executive members only. However, signs posted at certain clubs suggest a grace period for Gold Star and Business members will remain in place through August 31. Costco has not confirmed how widespread this policy will be.
Costco gas stations, which expanded hours in February, now operate as follows:
Monday–Friday: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday: 6 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Sunday: 6 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
(Hours may vary in California and Hawaii.)
All Costco clubs will be closed on Thursday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day, continuing the company’s policy of closing on major US holidays.
