Costco is one of the leading wholesale warehouse clubs in Australia. It is also very different to most other Australian supermarkets. Shoppers must pay an annual fee to enjoy the privilege of shopping at wholesale prices. This article will inform you of how Costco Australia works for you to help decide before purchasing a membership.
Many people shop at Costco Australia because they want good value and good service. Sometimes they may struggle to get this from their current local supermarket. Even though there are only a few Costco locations people seem happy to make the journey. As customers normally buy in bulk on their Costco trips their visits are less frequent than local supermarket trips.
How Did Costco Australia Start?
In July 12, 1976, Sol and Robert Price started a warehouse club for business shoppers named “Price Club” in San Diego California. After over 30 years as a wholesaler Price Club showed tremendous growth in the US. In 1997 Price Club officially changed its name to Costco Companies Inc. The continued success of Costco brought the company to fame and in 2006; Costco was named as one of “the most admired companies” by Fortune Magazine. As part of the its rapid growth Costco established its first warehouse in Australia in 2008. The first warehouse to open was in Sydney.
Steps to become a Costco Australia member
Firstly you must register at the warehouse or online. You need to do this before getting any members privileges including warehouse entry. Online membership registration can be found here. There are two types of Costco membership. The first is Business Membership and the other is Gold Star Membership. Business membership is $55 per year. It is the basic membership which entitles the holder to make two separate transactions. One transaction for business and one for personal shopping. The Gold Star Membership costs $60 per year which entitles the holder to join and shop at wholesale prices. A clear photo is required to process membership with Costco. Once a member receives their Costco card they are ready to enjoy all the advantages of being a Costco Australia member.
What makes Costco Australia different from normal supermarkets?
Costco Australia sells high-end items at great value and at reasonable prices. All products found in Costco are produced by well-known brands. Sometimes certain brand names will not be revealed. This is because of a private agreement between the manufacturer and Costco. This is how branded products can be bought from Costco at the lowest prices. No name tags but cheaper prices for the same high quality product.
Lowest Prices Possible
Costco Australia offers a wholesale price for all of its products. Each Costco Australia member is entitled to buy these items at the these prices. Other Australian supermarkets generally struggle to match the price that Costco can offer.
100% Refunds Available
Costco Australia guarantees a 100% refund to unsatisfied members. Sometimes you might buy items by mistake or you not satisfied with your purchase. Costco will allow you to have a cash refund. Many other Australian supermarkets will not offer this.
Worldwide Membership Recognition
Costco has locations in all parts of the world. Costco membership is valid worldwide wherever Costco has a warehouse. A member should only have to present their membership card to gain entry. If you are spending an extended period overseas you can still visit Costco.
Costco Australia Current Locations (as of 2015)
Costco has opened other warehouse in most Australian states. They are now present in Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide. Costco Australia also has fuel stations in Adelaide and North Lakes. If you live close to one of these locations consider joining Costco. You can also read the Daily Savers Club money saving guides for Costco Kilburn, Auburn & Ringwood.