Costco lovers, heads up! If you’re an Executive member—or thinking of becoming one—you’ve got a real perk with the new store hours policy coming June 30. Not only could it mean quieter aisles and early deals, but it may also impact your shopping routine—and even staffing. This article walks you through who’s affected, how, and what questions to ask to get the most from your membership. Ready to set your alarm? Let’s break it all down.
Executive Members Get Exclusive Early Access
Starting June 30, only Executive members can enter Costco warehouses at 9 a.m., an hour before other members. This special hour runs daily—including Sundays—and all other members can start shopping at 10 a.m., except Saturdays, when doors open at 9:30 a.m. It’s a nod to early-bird shoppers and a push to reward loyalty after last year’s membership price bump. For Executive members, it means less crowding and first dibs on hot items before the lines form.
Why the Change Matters to Everyday Shoppers
Even if you’re a Gold Star member, these store hours matter because you may need to shop later—or consider upgrading. Crowded weekends could ease up slightly during normal hours if Executive members take that first slot. But some Gold Star members warn that, ironically, popular items might disappear faster during the early hours. So while you gain a calmer environment, timing becomes more critical. It’s worth planning your grocery runs more strategically—and maybe considering that upgrade, if the math works.
What This Means for Costco Employees
New store hours are a perk for members—but employees say it’s a “nightmare.” According to staff reports, the shift means earlier preparation and less overnight restocking time. With no extra staffing planned, existing crews may be stretched thinner. Managers warn that this could result in unfinished restocking, cleaning, and more stressful opening routines. For shoppers, this might mean bare shelves early—or delays—even with those early perks.
More Perks Tied to Executive Membership
This hour, paired with the new store hours policy, aligns with other Executive-level upgrades. Members also now receive a $10 monthly credit on Instacart orders and $150 in savings on Costco Services this summer. Don’t forget the 2% annual rewards, which can yield up to $1,250 back each year. Roughly 47–50% of Costco membership is Executive-level, yet they account for 70–73% of sales. This tiered approach helps Costco reward loyalty—and may influence shopping behavior across member levels.
Gas Station Hours May Also Shift
Costco is also extending gas station hours—another change in store hours strategy. Many locations now stay open later than the warehouse, offering flexibility for late errands. These extended fuel hours have reportedly increased sales, as late-day shoppers appreciate the extra convenience. If you’re fueling up after work, you might not even need to shop inside later. It shows Costco is thinking beyond just the warehouse doors.
How to Make the Most of These Schedules
To navigate the new store hours, check your local warehouse’s schedule before heading out—some times may vary by location. Executive members should show up closer to 9 a.m. to maximize the quiet shopping window. Gold Star members will want to arrive around 10 a.m., but be mindful of popular early-hour crowding and stockouts. If you’re debating upgrading, run the numbers: factor in rewards, savings, and time value. And for employees, remember your prep may be less polished early—so go easy if the aisles aren’t fully stocked.
Will you upgrade to Executive for earlier shopping, or stick with Gold Star and adapt your schedule? Share your thoughts, or any tips for navigating the new hours, in the comments below!
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