Costco’s $130 Exec-Only Early Access Begins Sept 1—Regular Shoppers Locked Out

Costco launches tiered shopping—pay $130 for executive early access while regular members get blocked at the door.

Starting September 1, the wholesale giant implements a two-tier system that grants exclusive early entry to executive members while standard members face restricted access during premium hours.

The $130 executive membership now buys more than just extra coupons—it purchases time itself. While regular members watch from the parking lot, executives bypass queues and get first dibs on everything from rotisserie chickens to flat-screen TVs.

Costco cuts access for non-executives during peak morning hours—a move that effectively monetizes convenience. The membership upgrade doesn’t just offer discounts—it now literally opens doors others can’t enter.

Another brilliant case of paid privilege in retail—because nothing says 'member value' like locking people out unless they pay extra. Traditional retail keeps inventing new ways to monetize inequality while crypto builds open, permissionless access 24/7.

Costco Hours And Executive Membership Benefits Explained

The warehouse giant ended its grace period, and Costco hours now favor executive members exclusively during prime morning times. Regular Gold Star members paying $65 will actually be turned away during these coveted shopping windows.

New Hours for Executive Members

Executive members can now shop during these exclusive hours:

• Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
• Sunday: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Regular members are being denied entry before 10 a.m. on weekdays and also before 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Business members don’t get this Executive Membership perk either.

Executive Membership Drives Sales

Executive members represent just 37.6 million of Costco’s 79.6 million total memberships, yet they generate 73% of sales. The Costco Executive Membership costs $130 annually – that’s $65 base plus an additional $65 upgrade fee.

Costco actually defended the controversial hours policy. The company stated:

Costco Open on Labor Day Policy

Right now, Costco isn’t open on Labor Day, and actually maintains its seven-holiday closure policy. The question “Is Costco open on Labor Day?” gets asked every year, but the warehouse giant stays closed to let employees spend time with their families.

Regular Costco Hours After Holiday

Regular Costco hours today for non-executive members are 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on weekdays, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and also 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

The new Executive Membership benefits create clear distinctions between membership tiers, with Costco hours favoring those willing to pay premium fees for exclusive access during less crowded shopping times.