Costco Shoppers Notice Early Signs of Upcoming Major Food Court Transformation

Costco lovers encourage shoppers to make the most of the store's low-cost food court before big changes come. Since 1985, this giant warehouse club has been famous for its $1.50 hot dogs and other budget-friendly snacks.

Costco's Eats Beat Inflation's Heat

Even as the cost of groceries climbs due to inflation, Costco's food court continues to offer amazingly low prices for shoppers.

For under $10, customers can enjoy a variety of treats, including sweet desserts, sandwiches, beverages, and even a pizza to take home.

The standout item on the menu has always been the hot dog, famously priced at just $1.50 since 1985, and it looks like that price isn't going up anytime soon.

During a shareholders' meeting in 2018, former Costco CEO Craig Jelinek shared a story about James Sinegal, another previous company leader. Sinegal had once fiercely told him, "If you raise the price of the hot dog, I will kill you," showing just how serious Costco is about keeping their prices low for customers.

Also Read: Best Buy Joins Major Retailers in Observing Special Calendar Date with Store Closures

Costco Food Court: Members Only from April

Anyone could walk into a Costco for a long time and enjoy the food court without needing the store's annual membership. However, a recent discovery by a Reddit user could change this open-door policy. They found a notice at their local Costco that stated, "Starting April 8, 2024, you'll need an active Costco membership card to buy food court items."

This move is part of Costco's ongoing efforts to enforce rules more strictly, especially in response to social media tips on using the store's services without a membership. This January, a new rule was introduced, requiring all customers to show their membership cards at the entrance.

Although it might have seemed obvious that food court customers should be members, Costco has decided to enforce this requirement officially.

Despite causing frustration among many Costco regulars, this change has been met with positive reactions. Many Reddit users expressed support, hoping it would mean shorter lines, more available seating, and continued low prices for their favorite items. "If that keeps the pizzas $10, I'm good with it," commented one user.

Surprisingly, many were astonished to learn that a membership wasn't already required for the food court.

Some shared that, given its external location, checking membership cards at the food court has always been the practice in Hawaii. Others noted this was a new and unwelcome change in their area. Regardless, it's clear that this policy will be applied to all Costco warehouses starting in April, marking a significant shift in how the food court operates.

Meanwhile, Costco's decision to swap its beloved combo pizza for other items like chocolate chip cookies and turkey sandwiches has sparked an outcry among fans. The combo pizza, a mix of meats and veggies, was a favorite for its rich flavors. Its removal led to a Change.org petition with over 18,000 signatures, as fans demand its return.

The petition argues that losing this favorite could lead to members not renewing, highlighting its importance to Costco's loyal customer base.

Related Article: Costco Shoppers Baffled by New Hershey Product's Unintended NSFW Resemblance