Key Points
- Costco’s new policy gives Executive Members exclusive early access to shop before the store's regular hours.
- The policy rolls out on September 1st and is designed to reward top-tier members.
- Executive Membership comes with additional perks, including early access, that may make upgrading worthwhile.
Costco is rolling out a new policy that has already sparked outrage among shoppers. Beginning September 1st, only Executive Members will be allowed to shop during the early morning hours, while Gold Star and Business members will be required to wait outside until the store opens to the general public.
For some, it’s a welcome perk that makes shopping a little less hectic. If you’re considering whether an upgrade makes sense for you, here is everything you need to know before your next trip to Costco.
What is the Costco Executive Membership policy?
The Gold and Business members were given a grace period in July and August, which is now coming to an end. Starting September 1st, the new policy will be in effect.
Starting September 1, 2025, Costco will strictly enforce early-morning shopping access only for Executive Members. These members, who pay $130/year (compared to $65 for Gold Star or Business members), will be the only ones allowed to enter stores between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on weekdays and on Sundays, and until 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays. All other members must wait until these hours end before entering, and there will be no exceptions.
Why did Costco make this change?
Costco says it's meant to reward its top-tier shoppers. Executive Members represent nearly half of all memberships but account for a staggering 73% of total sales.
The retailer said: "Our Executive Members are our most loyal members, and we want to reward them for their commitment to Costco”.
By giving this group the first hour of shopping each day, Costco is sending a clear message: if you’re willing to pay extra for an Executive Membership, you’ll get additional perks.
How much extra does Executive Membership cost, and why might it be worth it?
Executive Membership costs $130/year, exactly double the $65 cost of basic tiers. In return, members get these benefits:
- Priority early access to stores
- Free Household Card
- A 2% annual reward on most Costco purchases
- $10 monthly credit for use on eligible orders of $150+
- Additional benefits and savings on Costco Services
- Extra benefits on select travel products
- The card is valid at all Costco locations worldwide
What are people saying about Costco’s new policy?
Many Executive Members see the early access as a valuable perk that makes their shopping experience smoother and more efficient. Being able to enter the warehouse before the general crowd means easier parking, quieter aisles, and shorter checkout lines.
For busy parents, it’s very convenient as they can shop before school drop-offs or morning commitments. For retirees or members who prefer to shop in peace, it’s an opportunity to browse without the usual hustle and bustle.
Costco isn’t the first warehouse club to offer special early hours. Sam’s Club has been offering a similar program for years with its Plus membership. Those members can enter as early as 8 a.m. on weekdays and on Saturday mornings, providing them with a peaceful shopping experience before the regular hours begin.
Final Thoughts
Costco's exclusive executive-hour perk is now firmly in place. While Executive Members pay $65 extra for perks (such as early shopping, credit, and 2% rewards), standard members lose an hour of early access. Regular members will still enjoy the same Costco deals; they’ll just start shopping a little later in the day.
Whether you should upgrade to Costco’s Executive Membership or not, it all comes down to your shopping habits. If you shop often and want additional perks, then the upgrade may be worth it. However, if you only shop occasionally, the standard membership still offers you plenty of value and savings.
Either way, you’re still walking out with great deals and savings!
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