Costco’s membership model has long set it apart in the retail world, but starting June 30, 2025, a major shift is coming that will impact millions of shoppers. The highly anticipated change to Costco executive hours is set to reward the company’s most loyal customers with exclusive early access, while also reshaping the shopping experience for everyone else. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Costco executive hours, why they’re changing, and what it means for both Executive and Gold Star members.
Table of Contents
Key Point Summary
- Costco executive hours change takes effect June 30, 2025.
- Executive Members get exclusive early access from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily.
- All other members can shop starting at 10 a.m. (or 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays).
- Executive membership costs $130/year and includes additional perks.
- The change is designed to boost loyalty and manage store congestion.
Costco Executive Hours: The New Schedule
Costco’s new executive hours will give Executive Members—those paying for the top-tier $130 annual membership—exclusive access to shop one hour earlier than other members. This means:
- Monday to Friday: Executive Members can shop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. All other members may enter at 10 a.m.
- Saturday: Early access for Executive Members starts at 9 a.m., with all members allowed in at 9:30 a.m.
- Sunday: The 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. slot is reserved for Executive Members.
This change applies to all U.S. Costco warehouses, expanding a perk that was previously limited to select locations. The move aims to offer a quieter, less crowded shopping environment for Executive Members, who tend to spend more and shop more frequently.
Why Are Costco Executive Hours Changing?
Costco’s decision to extend executive hours comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance value for its most dedicated customers and encourage more shoppers to upgrade to the Executive tier. Executive Members make up just under half of all paid memberships but account for a staggering 73% of global sales. By offering exclusive early access, Costco is aiming to:
- Reward loyalty: Executive Members are among Costco’s most frequent and high-spending customers.
- Reduce congestion: Early access allows these members to shop before the crowds, making for a smoother experience.
- Boost premium memberships: The exclusive hour serves as a strong incentive for regular members to consider upgrading.
Costco’s approach mirrors tactics used by competitors like Sam’s Club, which has long offered similar early shopping privileges to its premium members.
What Executive Members Get Beyond Early Hours
The new executive hours are just one of several benefits for those paying the $130 annual fee. Other perks include:
- 2% annual reward on eligible Costco purchases (up to $1,250 per year).
- $10 monthly Instacart credit for same-day orders of $150 or more.
- Exclusive discounts on Costco services, including travel, home, auto, and business needs.
- Access to special promotions and additional savings on select services.
Executive Members also receive a sleek, black membership card and enjoy all the standard benefits of regular membership, including access to Costco’s bulk deals, food court, and gas stations.
How Will This Affect Gold Star Members?
For Gold Star Members, who pay $65 per year, the change means a later start time at most locations. Where some warehouses previously opened at 9 a.m. for all, only Executive Members will be allowed in during the 9 to 10 a.m. window. Gold Star Members will need to wait until 10 a.m. on weekdays and Sundays, and 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays, to begin shopping.
While this adjustment may be frustrating for some, Costco is betting that the value of the Gold Star membership remains strong, especially for those who don’t need the extra hour or the additional perks.
Impact on Store Operations and Staff
The shift to earlier executive hours does present operational challenges. Employees now have one less hour in the morning to restock and prepare the warehouse before opening, reducing prep time from six hours to five. Costco’s management is relying on task redistribution and overnight shifts to maintain its high standards of cleanliness and inventory availability, without significantly increasing labor costs.
Costco’s labor strategy has historically been a model of efficiency, with an industry-leading low turnover rate and above-market wages. However, the company will need to ensure that the new schedule does not compromise the shopping experience that has made it a favorite among members.
Extended Saturday Hours for All Members
In addition to the early access for Executive Members, Costco is also extending its Saturday closing time for all members. Warehouses will now stay open until 7 p.m. on Saturdays, giving everyone more flexibility to shop on the weekend.
What to Expect at Your Local Warehouse
Not all departments within Costco will open during the exclusive executive hours. Pharmacy, optical, and food court hours may vary by location and staffing, so members are encouraged to check with their local warehouse for specific details. The changes apply only to standard warehouses; Costco Business Centers and gas stations are not affected.
Table: Costco Membership Tiers and Benefits
| Membership Type | Annual Fee | Early Access | 2% Reward | Extra Perks | Entry Time (Weekdays) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Executive | $130 | Yes | Yes | Yes | 9 a.m. |
| Gold Star | $65 | No | No | No | 10 a.m. |
The Bottom Line
Costco’s executive hours change is a bold move designed to reinforce loyalty among its most valuable customers and encourage more members to upgrade. While it means a later start for regular members, the added value for Executive Members is clear: less crowded aisles, exclusive perks, and more time to shop. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, Costco’s willingness to adapt and innovate is likely to keep it at the forefront of the industry.
Ready to make the most of your Costco experience? Consider upgrading to Executive Membership before June 30 to enjoy early access and a host of new benefits.
Upgrade now to enjoy exclusive early shopping, maximize your rewards, and get the best out of your Costco membership—don’t miss out on the new Costco executive hours starting June 30!