Costco is rolling out new changes to reward its Executive Members, including longer store hours and added shopping benefits starting June 30.
In an email sent to members on June 11, the retail giant announced it will open its warehouses an hour earlier each day, just for Executive Members. Starting Monday, Executive Members can begin shopping at 9 am.
Monday through Friday, and from 9 to 9:30 am on Saturdays and Sundays. Regular members will still start shopping an hour later.
In addition, all Costco members will now enjoy extended Saturday shopping. Stores will remain open until 7 pm., adding one more hour of shopping time. This change takes effect on July 5.
These updates follow Costco's decision to increase membership fees last September. According to USA Today, the Executive Membership, now priced at $130 per year, includes access to all standard Gold Star member perks, plus extra savings and rewards.
Executive Members earn 2% back on eligible Costco purchases and also receive discounts on services such as travel, insurance, and business products.
In the same June 11 message, Costco introduced a new benefit for Executive Members: a $10 monthly credit. To qualify, members must place a same-day order of $150 or more through Costco's delivery service or Instacart.
Costco hours change for executive members Monday with new, early opening times https://t.co/ltZskGz0K5
— Axios (@axios) June 29, 2025
New Perks Aim to Boost Costco Executive Upgrades
The goal of these changes appears to be customer retention and encouraging upgrades to Executive status.
The move comes as Costco faces stiff competition from rivals like Sam's Club, which already offers special shopping hours to premium members.
Costco's decision could also be linked to strong financial performance. Despite global price pressures and a lack of a yearly business forecast, Costco recently exceeded quarterly expectations.
While Walmart raised prices, Costco held firm, relying instead on its loyal membership base.
Industry observers say the membership model gives Costco an edge. Even with a recent price hike—$5 for Gold Star and $10 for Executive tiers—many shoppers still find value in the added perks, Stockwits said.
Shoppers and fans of the brand are already buzzing online. According to Google Trends, search interest in Costco's new hours has jumped since the announcement.
New Executive Shopping Hours:
Monday–Friday: 9 am to 10 am
Saturday: 9 am to 9:30 am
Sunday: 9 am to 10 am
Extended Saturday Hours for All Members:
Warehouses close at 7pm starting July 5
Originally published on vcpost.com
