COSTCO fans are urging customers to enjoy the store’s affordable food court before a major change takes effect.
Since 1985, the big-box warehouse club has been known for offering $1.50 hot dogs and other cheap eats.
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While inflationary costs ratchet up grocery prices, Costco’s food court remains surprisingly affordable for consumers.
For just a few dollars, shoppers can get sweet treats, sandwiches, drinks, and even a take-home frozen pizza for less than $10.
The most iconic menu item is the hot dog, which has been priced at $1.50 since 1985 with no signs of change.
At a shareholders meeting in 2018, former Costco CEO Craig Jenilek quoted another former chief James Sinegal who once told him, “If you raise the effing hot dog, I will kill you.”
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For years, customers have been able to walk into a Costco to grab a bite without having to pay the yearly membership fee.
However, last week, Costco announced that membership cards would be required to purchase any of the tasty treats.
The announcement came after executives heard complaints that the food courts were too crowded for shoppers to enjoy the offerings.
The change is supposed to take place on April 8, but some shoppers have already noticed the crackdown taking effect at their local clubs.
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In a post on X, one budget-friendly shopper warned his followers about the change and urged them to grab a slice of pizza in the coming days.
He wrote, “For those that do not have a Costco membership and want to experience hot dogs, pizza, chocolate chip cookies, and more, you have until April 8, 2024, before a membership card will be required to purchase items from the food court.”
Some followers mourned the loss of the food court, which is sometimes outside of the main building, while others noted they were already being asked to show their cards at the front door.
“The Costco we go to does not let people in without a card,” one user replied.
“They won’t even let you walk in the side lane to go straight to the food court.
“You have to show your card then walk all the way around.”
Some followers said this was a sign to finally pull the trigger on a membership and enjoy the bulk orders and savings.
“Everyone knows it’s worth it,” said a different user.
What’s changing at the Costco food court?
Starting on April 8, shoppers will have to show their Costco membership ID to order food at the food court.
The change came after customers complained that the food court was getting too crowded.
Memberships at Costco cost as low as $70 per year.
With a membership card in hand, shoppers can enjoy the iconic $1.50 hot dog and other delicious treats.
OTHER COSTCO NEWS
Costco has sparked controversy with shoppers for other updates to its beloved deals.
Many fans love the brand for its $4.99 rotisserie chicken and were shocked to see a key change to its packaging.
Meanwhile, the brand introduced a new bakery item that reminded some shoppers of an iconic Starbucks treat.
For customers wanting to enjoy the savings, Costco memberships cost only $60 per year for the everyday value tier.
Executive memberships cost $120 annually but come with an annual 2% reward and Costco services discounts.
To get the most savings out of a membership, shoppers should be prepared to identify the products they use most and buy them in bulk.