As Americans get ready for one of the nation’s biggest holiday celebrations, a major warehouse retailer is drawing attention for a move that could catch some shoppers off guard.
Costco, the members-only chain famous for bulk buys and steep savings on everyday staples, has rolled out Fourth of July promotions featuring discounts on grilling gear, hot dogs and a range of holiday essentials.
But shoppers are now being advised to plan ahead after Costco confirmed it will shut down for a full day in July — including its gas stations, which are popular with members seeking lower-cost fuel.
The wholesale retailer will be closed completely on Saturday, meaning members will not be able to make last-minute runs for party supplies during the busy holiday weekend.
Although the closure may surprise some customers, it is not a new policy for the company.
Costco traditionally closes its warehouses every Independence Day so employees can spend the federal holiday with family and friends.
Still, the timing has sparked frustration among some shoppers, as the days around July 4 are typically among Costco’s busiest — and anyone counting on a last-minute trip will need to make other plans.
Customers are being encouraged to pick up what they need by Friday, or even earlier in the week, to avoid being left empty-handed.
Costco customers are urging one another to stock up prior to the July holiday, as the warehouse and its gas station will be closed
Years ago, a Costco customer reminded Reddit users that the store would be closed for the holiday. Some thanked them for the reminder, others shared their reaction to the news.
‘I actually feel bad for people that don’t know this,’ one Reddit user wrote. ‘And I do believe there are a few.’
‘What’s a valid reason stores are closed July Fourth besides “it’s a holiday,”‘ another added.
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Some chimed in that shopping the day prior is always ‘hectic,’ debating whether it’s better to go first thing in the morning or right as they’re closing. One member said to wait an hour after opening so the crowd can subside.
Costco will reopen on Sunday, with warehouses welcoming shoppers at 10am and closing at 6pm at most locations.
Executive members will once again be able to enter an hour earlier, from 9am.
This is not the only holiday on which Costco will have shut its doors: the warehouse retailer is also closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
For those last-minute essentials, rival warehouse retailers like BJ’s Wholesale Club and Sam’s Club will be open, as will Target and Walmart.
Costco is making changes to its membership program, recently introducing a ‘VIP hour’ for its Executive Members
Meanwhile, the warehouse giant is preparing to crack down on its new ‘VIP hour,’ a perk that gives executive members early access to stores before everyone else – leaving many regular punters feeling pushed aside.
Beginning September 1, Costco employees will strictly enforce the policy after a two-month grace period, meaning shoppers with standard memberships could be turned away if they attempt to enter stores.
Under the rules, only executive members will be allowed to shop from 9am to 10am on weekdays and from 9.30am to 10am on Saturdays.
All other members must wait until 10am before they can enter.
The policy was first introduced in June as a new benefit for customers paying for Costco’s premium executive membership, which costs $130 per year – gold star and business memberships cost $65 annually.
