Mandatory membership card scan comes to Costco in Scarborough

Do you give out your Costco card to the store in Scarborough, Maine? That will soon be over.

Last year, Costco said they were considering implementing a mandatory member scan for store entry. For Maine residents, Costco has barely opened and they’re already changing their policies.

READ MORE: Are you excited? Maine’s first Costco opens Friday in Scarborough

Accordingly MSNthey began testing mandatory scanning at a location in Issaquah, Washington. It must have been a huge success because it’s coming to all Costcos – including in Maine.

Costco is taking the new policy seriously for its stores – including the only one in Maine

Costco published on its website,

In the coming months, member scanners will be deployed at the front door of your local warehouse. Once deployed, all members will be required to scan their physical or digital membership card by holding the barcode or QR code to the scanner before entering.

When this was first announced, most people took it with caution. Some were concerned about long queues, but most were happy with the change.

However, there is one policy that causes Costco members to reach for the pitchforks.

Get ready to show a photo ID with your membership card at the only Costco in Maine.

Last summer, Costco tried to crack down on membership card sharing. A year ago, they started requiring photo ID when paying with the card if there is no photo on the back. That didn’t go over well at all. Be prepared to be asked to show a valid photo ID if your card doesn’t have a photo on it. You can also just walk up to the membership counter and have your photo taken.

Another change is coming. Starting September 1, the annual membership fee will rise from $60 to $65. This is the first price increase in seven years.

But damn, these fried chickens are so big and cheap!