Costco installs membership card scanners at store entrances

If you enjoy buying your groceries at Costco but haven’t signed up for your own membership yet, now might be a good time to do so.

Costco is popular because it offers a selection of bulk items at lower prices than its competitors, making it a good option for large families or anyone looking to cut back on grocery shopping. The food court has also made a lasting impression, with offerings like the famous $1.50 beef hot dog meal, pizza, and soft serve ice cream, to name a few. In addition to groceries, Costco also sells appliances, furniture, and more, making it a one-stop shop no matter what’s on your shopping list.

Despite its popularity, exclusive memberships are one of Costco’s main sources of revenue. While the retailer relaxed its policies in 2020 to allow non-members to shop for others due to the pandemic, it recently announced it would implement stricter shopping policies by installing scanning devices at the entrances of all of its stores.

A statement on the company’s official website said that once scanners are in place in stores, “all members will be required to scan their physical or digital membership card by holding the barcode or QR code to the scanner. Guests must also be accompanied by a valid member to gain entry.”

This move is the retailer’s second major announcement regarding memberships. In September, the company is increasing annual fees from $60 to $65 for Gold Star members and from $120 to $130 for Executive members, so if you’re considering joining the club, you should act now to take advantage of the lower price while it’s available.

If you’re still not sure if a membership is right for you, there are still a few ways to get your Costco fix. The grocer is available in select locations through Uber Eats and Instacart, so be sure to check out those apps!