Now you can traipse down the cheeseball drum and neck massager aisles in relative peace.
Costco is introducing a new perk for its elite clients: beginning June 30, 2025, executive members will gain early access to all of their locations starting at 9 a.m.—a full hour before the wheezing horde floods the aisles and coarsens the ambiance.
The new privilege applies daily, including weekends, and extends to services such as the pharmacy, optical, tire center and food court.
This move revives a benefit Costco had previously phased out in many locations and is being reintroduced in response to member feedback and the 2023 membership price increase.
With over 70% of Costco’s revenue coming from executive members, the company is focusing on catering to its most loyal shoppers.
Costco offers two primary membership tiers: the Gold Star membership, priced at $65/year, and the Executive membership, which costs $130/year.
Executive members receive 2% back on most purchases (up to $1,250/year), along with additional perks like discounted services and special travel deals. A general guideline suggests shoppers should spend around $3,250 per year at Costco to break even on the $65 upgrade.
Beyond early entry, executive members will also receive a $10 monthly Instacart credit and up to $150 in service credits.
Costco is also extending Saturday warehouse hours for all members, keeping stores open until 7 p.m.
St. Johns County’s lone Costco is located at 215 World Commerce Parkway in St. Augustine.
