A significant shift is underway for weekend shopping at Costco stores. The extended holiday hours, once a temporary measure, are now a permanent fixture, promising more time for members to navigate the warehouse aisles.
Across Canada, Costco locations will now remain open until 7 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, adding a valuable hour to the previous 6 p.m. closing time. This change offers shoppers a greater window to secure everything from weekly groceries to those sought-after gifts.
The decision, playfully announced by a company spokesperson, signals a commitment to member convenience. It’s a clear message: the relaxed weekend hours experienced during the holidays are here to stay, transforming the shopping experience for loyal customers.
Access to these extended hours, and the stores themselves, requires an annual membership. The standard membership, priced at $65 plus tax, provides two cards for household use and access to both warehouse and online shopping.
For those seeking additional benefits, an executive membership is available at $130 plus tax. This tier unlocks exclusive perks, including rewards on eligible purchases, discounts on services, and a subscription to the Costco Connection magazine.
Ontario boasts a substantial network of Costco stores, with over 40 locations including ten within the Greater Toronto Area. A new business centre is also slated to open in East Gwillimbury, further expanding accessibility.
However, the change hasn’t been universally welcomed. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact on employee well-being, with some arguing that extended hours will encroach on valuable family time and exacerbate existing workloads.
One commenter expressed disappointment, stating the extended hours prioritize shopping convenience over the quality of life for Costco employees already navigating busy shifts and demanding customer interactions.
While the company has addressed concerns about consistent implementation, advising shoppers to verify hours for their specific location, some stores are still scheduled to close at 6 p.m. on December 21st, the Sunday before Christmas.
This shift in operating hours reflects a broader trend in retail, adapting to consumer demands and seeking to maximize shopping opportunities. It remains to be seen how these changes will ultimately impact both shoppers and the dedicated workforce behind the Costco experience.
