Members are angry about Costco’s latest policy: Here’s what’s changing

Costco has announced a new perk for Executive members, whose annual membership costs $130, compared to the $65 Gold Star membership.

Starting in September, Executive members will have expanded access to Costco warehouses: from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on weekdays, and 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturdays. These early hours will allow Executive members to shop before the crowds, while access for other members remains unchanged.

The change was announced via Instagram earlier this summer.

This is just the latest benefit added to the Executive membership, and is likely a move to ensure those paying more continue to see the value of their more expensive access pass.

The decision to extend the hours of operation for some members has caused consternation among Gold Star cardholders. Instagram comments reveal many members are upset, with posts questioning whether Costco is willing to turn away customers who arrive early or arguing that the change should be applied to all members, since many Executive account holders may not wake up early enough to benefit from the extended hours.

What other benefits does the Executive membership include?

The Executive membership provides annual 2% rewards for some Costco purchases, as well as greater savings on some of Costco’s services, and additional discounts “on select Costco Travel products.”

The 2% rewards are mailed to the member as a certificate, according to Costco’s website. “The Reward may be redeemed toward purchases of most merchandise through the front-end registers,” read the terms and conditions for the Executive membership.

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