Costco Launches Exclusive “VIP Hour” for Exec Members

Costco Executive cardholders now have exclusive access to warehouses for an hour before all other memberships.

Costco’s new policy allowing “executive” membership holders to shop exclusively for an hour each weekday is going into effect starting this month. 

Announced earlier this year, the retail wholesaler has begun enforcing a new perk to its highest-tier membership. Dubbed “VIP Hour,” customers with the “executive” membership can exclusively shop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays. And 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturdays.

The decision was first announced in June, with the intention of providing members with a less crowded shopping experience. But stores were granted a “grace period” to prepare for and ultimately implement the new rule. 

Now, Costco warehouses nationwide will be applying this rule, including the pharmacy and food court. 

The new change has not been met with mixed responses, many are in support, and others not so much. Commenting on some of their Instagram post on the new VIP hours, Instagram users say, “All customers should be treated equally.” 

While others express excitement for the latest change, “Costco romancing us, it worked. I’ll be there.” 

Costco’s Executive membership costs $130 per year, and its Gold Star membership costs $65 per year. With Gold Star membership, customers are allowed two membership cards, access to the warehouses, and to shop online.

Executive memberships have the same perks but with 2% cashback rewards on purchases, the latest addition of exclusive shopping hours, and $10 monthly credit on Sameday.Costco.com and Costco through Instacart.