Exclusive Access is now a reality at Costco. As of today, September 1, 2025, Costco’s new shopping policy is in full effect, granting Executive Members exclusive early access to warehouses nationwide. This significant change, announced earlier this summer, aims to reward loyal customers while potentially incentivizing lower-tier members to upgrade their memberships. However, the policy has also sparked controversy among Gold Star and Business Members who will no longer have access during the early shopping window.
The New Costco Executive Hour: Key Details
The core of the new policy revolves around the introduction of an “Executive Hour,” providing exclusive shopping time for Executive Members. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Who Benefits?
The primary beneficiaries of this policy are Costco’s Executive Members. According to Costco’s internal data, while Executive Members constitute less than half of the total membership, they account for approximately 73% of the company’s sales, as reported by Mint in July 2025. This exclusive access is designed to acknowledge and reward their significant contribution to Costco’s revenue.
When and Where?
The “Executive Hour” schedule is as follows:
- Weekdays and Sundays: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. local time
- Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. local time
This policy is being implemented at all Costco locations across the United States. While September 1st is Labor Day and Costco stores are closed nationwide, the policy will be strictly enforced starting Tuesday, September 2, 2025. As reported by Boston 25 News in August 2025, Costco employees are prepared to enforce these new entry rules at all locations.
Who is Affected?
While Executive Members gain exclusive access, Gold Star and Business Members are directly affected. These members, who pay a lower annual fee of $65 compared to the $130 fee for Executive Members, will no longer be able to enter Costco warehouses during the “Executive Hour.” Regular opening hours for Gold Star and Business Members will now be 10:00 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays, and 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays.
Why the Change?
Costco’s decision to implement this new policy is driven by several factors:
- Rewarding Loyalty: As mentioned earlier, Executive Members are a significant revenue driver for Costco. This policy serves as a tangible reward for their loyalty and continued patronage.
- Incentivizing Upgrades: Costco hopes that the exclusive benefits offered to Executive Members will encourage Gold Star and Business Members to upgrade their memberships. By experiencing the benefits of early access, lower-tier members may be more inclined to pay the higher annual fee.
- Competitive Advantage: By offering unique benefits to its premium members, Costco aims to maintain a competitive edge in the warehouse club market.
Impact and Reactions
The introduction of the “Executive Hour” has elicited a range of reactions from Costco members and employees:
Executive Member Satisfaction
Many Executive Members have expressed satisfaction with the new policy. They appreciate the quieter aisles and reduced crowds during the exclusive shopping window. This enhanced shopping experience is seen as a valuable perk for their higher membership fee.
Gold Star and Business Member Concerns
Conversely, many Gold Star and Business Members have voiced their dissatisfaction. As reported by Living Richly on a Budget in July 2025, some members view the policy as unfair favoritism towards higher-paying members. Others lament the loss of early shopping access, especially in locations that previously opened at 9:00 a.m. for all members.
Employee Perspectives
Costco employees are also adapting to the new policy. Some have voiced concerns about the challenges of enforcing the new hours, particularly with limited staffing during the early morning period. Clear communication and efficient processes will be crucial to ensure a smooth transition, according to reports from various YouTube news channels covering the policy change.
Navigating the New Policy
For Costco members, understanding the implications of this new policy is essential. Here are some key takeaways:
- Executive Members: Enjoy the benefits of early access and plan your shopping trips accordingly. Arrive at 9:00 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays, or 9:00 a.m. on Saturdays, to take full advantage of the “Executive Hour.”
- Gold Star and Business Members: Adjust your shopping schedules to align with the regular opening hours. Consider exploring alternative shopping times or upgrading to an Executive Membership to regain early access.
- All Members: Be aware of the potential for increased crowds during peak hours, particularly after the “Executive Hour” ends. Plan your trips accordingly and be prepared for a potentially busier shopping experience.
Conclusion
Costco’s new shopping policy, granting Exclusive Access to Executive Members, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to membership benefits. While the policy aims to reward loyal customers and incentivize upgrades, it has also generated mixed reactions among the broader membership base. As the policy is implemented and enforced, it will be crucial for Costco to monitor its impact on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Only time will tell if this strategic change will ultimately benefit both the company and its diverse customer base.
