661793 Fri Oct 23 13:28:58 -0700 2009 99 32 Chains 0 5125955 I want to go and check out Costco but I heard that you can not even enter the stores without a membership. I was wondering if it is really worth it to buy a $55 membership for two people? Where do you save the most money compared to other supermarkets? What are must try products? How is the selection/price on cheese, bread and meat? Thanks! Fri Oct 23 13:28:58 -0700 2009 234943 josey124 1 5126047 very ironic, i'm in the same position, supposed to be joining on Monday and have wondered the same, butin my case its only for 1 person, hence the ever-present trepidation Fri Oct 23 14:03:24 -0700 2009 5125955 15725 vandan 1 5126066 Not everything they have is in MASS quantities. We love their meat. They have a lot of big quantity boxes ie; toilet paper, paper towels, tomato sauce, cheese and some of their produce. I do believe you can get a one day pass to explore the place. They have clothes and books (my wife likes that). Danny Fri Oct 23 14:10:12 -0700 2009 5125955 42143 Bakersfield Hound 1 5126078 "I heard that you can not even enter the stores without a membership." ~~~~~~ that's not true. you *can* go into the stores without a membership, and you can even purchase things there, but they charge non-members a premium for the "privilege." go there and check it out for yourself to see if you think their selection is appropriate for you...and if you search the board there are lots of threads about CHers' Costco faves, must-haves, and even products to avoid. Fri Oct 23 14:14:01 -0700 2009 5125955 103920 goodhealthgourmet 2 5131433 Actually, we tried and couldn't. Mon Oct 26 08:23:55 -0700 2009 5126078 234943 josey124 2 5134637 I don't think thats true. Tue Oct 27 10:10:32 -0700 2009 5126078 1089411 bbqdawg 3 5134796 Sams lets you make any purchase and pay 5% more than marked prices if you are not a member; I have never seen Costco do that and have been a member since 1984. I shop weekly. EDIT: You can walk without showing membership to go to the pharmacy, see the in-store Optometrist or buy glasses and contact lenses. You have to show membership to make a purchase of the other items. I just called my store and asked. Tue Oct 27 10:53:48 -0700 2009 5134637 12123 Cathy 4 5136031 That varies with location (state law??). We walked around a Costco in Georgia as non-members recently, as were told by the optical guy that we had to be a member to use the department. I didn't get into the 5% additional issue with him, but the manager at the entrance said we could shop in the store for the 5% extra. Tue Oct 27 18:23:30 -0700 2009 5134796 10668 johnb 4 5158203 I agree that must vary by location. I usually avoid anything associated with Wal-Mart, but when we had to make a large purchase on a budget, a friend offered to let us use his Sams Club membership. He came with us and a store employee checked that someone in our group had a membership card before we could enter the store. Thu Nov 05 09:45:30 -0800 2009 5134796 111207 rweater 4 5158845 I saw an ad for a 'one day membership pass' for Sam's Club. I figured it would be worth it to stock up- but the fine print said you must pay 10% of your purchase as a service fee! Thu Nov 05 12:46:23 -0800 2009 5134796 217807 cheesecake17 3 5136969 @bbqdawg Well, what do you want me to say? They stopped us and requested to see a membership card or sign up right there. Which we did. Wed Oct 28 07:28:19 -0700 2009 5134637 234943 josey124 4 5140420 I was replying to goodhealthgourmet. My comment was meant to support what you said, not attack it. Thu Oct 29 10:15:11 -0700 2009 5136969 1089411 bbqdawg 1 5126093 They have a 1-year money back guarantee. I've seen it used many many times. As in, you can purchase a membership, use it for up to a year, and theoretically if you're not pleased, ask for a refund and they will refund your entire membership, no questions. Now, for is it worth it for only two people? Probably not unless you're big eaters. Because everything is supersized there, and the prices reflect it. I'm still not convinced that anyone saves money at by buying at Costco. They may save time because they can shop for more and go less often, but dollar for dollar, you don't shop at Costco to save money. Unless someone gives me a side by side comparison, I'm of that opinion. Having said all that, it's a no lose for you. Go buy a membership, try it out and see if it's for you. That's what I'm doing this year. I hate to say it, so far the only revelation I've had at Costco has been the $2 hot dogs and sundaes--but then again I can go eat those even without a membership. Fri Oct 23 14:21:38 -0700 2009 5125955 1104460 Restaurant Dish 2 5126100 And, of course, there's much more to Costco than their food. I've purchased tires for 2 of our cars there this year alone, more than making up the cost of membership. Our sons both get their contact prescriptions filled there. I use their online photo processing routinely. Even their car rental rates are good. Fri Oct 23 14:24:36 -0700 2009 5126093 202198 ferret 2 5128666 <<<Now, for is it worth it for only two people? Probably not unless you're big eaters>>> Quite a curious comment?? Just because you purchase 8 steaks doesn't mean that you sit down and eat them all??? Sat Oct 24 20:44:46 -0700 2009 5126093 17403 easily amused 3 5129445 No, but not everyone wants to be eating steak, pork, or chicken from the FREEZER all the time and that's what you have to do if you buy 8 steaks and are only two people, isn't it? Not to mention the 'supersize' everything else like chips, bread, mayo, BBQ sauce, cookies, cakes, seafood that you either have to freeze or deal with going bad if you don't finish by best before date. Costco was not invented for two people to shop in. I find that you don't understand that kinda curious actually. I will say that Costco is good for some non-food items but I'm not sure that warrants $100/yr membership, which is the one I have. Here in Canada, (Toronto) we also don't have the luxury of Costco gas, so maybe that would make a difference. We do have tires etc but I've not been sure of their quality in terms of labor. Here's what I LOVE about Costco though: their customer service. I wish the supermarkets I frequent had that type of customer service. You can return anything, without question with a full refund - and they don't make you feel dumb. I've even seen people returning meat! Fantastic! Sun Oct 25 11:00:58 -0700 2009 5128666 1104460 Restaurant Dish 4 5129487 >>>Costco was not invented for two people to shop in<<< I have a Costco membership for a two person household and I shop there at least once a week. The price on milk alone is worth a membership. Sun Oct 25 11:24:47 -0700 2009 5129445 113872 diablo 5 5129498 Really? A whole membership on milk every week? Hmm. What's the cost at Costco and how much do you buy? Sun Oct 25 11:30:54 -0700 2009 5129487 1104460 Restaurant Dish 6 5129613 A gallon of milk at Costco is $1.49 - $1.69 in NJ, so yes, this will pay for your membership for the year. Sun Oct 25 12:37:28 -0700 2009 5129498 64459 jnk 6 5130116 Yes, I live in NJ, so jnk's response is right on the money, so to speak. Plus, I got a deal on my membership. They ran some special where if you join they give you a $25 gift card for the store. So I actually only paid $25 for my membership. I love it so much, though, I would renew for full price. I don't mind freezing things so I'll get the two pack of bread and freeze one. I'll get the four pack of filet mignon and freeze two, etc. I've also purchased clothes, books, shoes...all at a good discount, so, again, I don't understand why it would *not* be a good idea for a two person household. I've saved a ton on grocery shopping since joining. In this economy, I would think it's foolhardy not to join if you have the option, no matter the size of your household. Sun Oct 25 17:03:57 -0700 2009 5129498 113872 diablo 7 5130181 I'd say this was a case of the U.S. vs. Canadian stores, but I've actually been to an N.J. location and I also have relatives in California who tell me how expensive it is, so not sure where you're finding all these 'deals'! I was surprised that you didn't need a membership card to shop at their licquor store too! How odd. I'd think that would have been a good reason to get membership out of customers. Costco is WAY more expensive than regular grocery stores. That's why everyone hasn't joined. It doesn't make sense. Sure, maybe the sale items are cheaper than other places but I don't find that is the norm. I'll say it again, Costco is an expensive place to shop. Yes, they have nice stuff, yes sometimes they have good sales, but on the whole, I stand by my comment that Costco was not invented for a 1 or two person family. I know that a 1 or 2 person family CAN shop there and freeze things, but that's also not the norm. Look, I'm glad that so many get pleasure shopping at Costco. But I'm not their PR person so feel no need to over-hype their usefulness or debate whether it's an economical place to shop. Just saying that from what I've seen, it's not an economical place to shop if you have fewer than 4 to 6 people in your family. Sun Oct 25 17:28:56 -0700 2009 5130116 1104460 Restaurant Dish 8 5130660 We're a two person family and shop Costco at least once a month. MANY things aren't super-sized. Many. Like every other store, you have to know what you're doing. But we save money on almost everything we buy. We're VERY frugal shoppers so we know what we're talking about. Pehaps you shop differently than we. Sun Oct 25 20:28:29 -0700 2009 5130181 131001 c oliver 8 5130711 I'm frugal as can be too. I have checked prices with a calculator oz. to oz. and Costco in my area beats the regular grocery prices. Sometime the sale price at the regular grocery is better and sometimes a really good coupon at the reg. grocery is a better deal. But I don't really want to spend massive amounts of time devising a sale based grocery list, so my Costco purchases give me the price anytime. We don't eat huge meals. Many of their packaged meats still work for us. They had beautiful wild salmon a few months ago. I cut it into 6 portions, 3 meals for 2 people. I seasoned each set differently and broiled. Ate one for dinner, the next set was mixed into a spread for sandwiches, the last set was the protein for a composed salad the next night. I'm making lasagna for guests next week - their price on ricotta, mozzarella and fresh Parmesan makes this affordable. Their quantities will cover the dinner party, leftovers for who ever wants them (usually everyone) and several single portions to freeze for brown bagging lunches. One of my favorite everyday red's is $4/bottle less at Costco - I drink it at least once per week, so a savings of $208/year right there! I'm thinking this may be a difference between countries...My SIL moved from Brooklyn to the Los Angeles area and still goes to Costco regularly. She feels the prices are comparable and better than most area grocery stores. Sun Oct 25 20:54:04 -0700 2009 5130181 111267 meatn3 6 5136158 well here we do four gallons of milk a week for our three person family...me husband and five year old....at a savings of 1.83 a gallon from the grocery...so yearly I save about 380.00...and it is better tasting. Tue Oct 27 19:19:17 -0700 2009 5129498 11854 LaLa 7 5136187 Holy cow! Y'all drink FOUR GALLONS of milk a WEEK???? No calcium difficiency in your family, huh? Wow. Tue Oct 27 19:28:12 -0700 2009 5136158 131001 c oliver 8 5136220 and I don't even drink it....I am allergic! Tue Oct 27 19:41:30 -0700 2009 5136187 11854 LaLa 9 5164373 I feel for you...we go through 2 gallons a week with my 2 year old. I rarely touch the stuff...Costco is a dairy lifesaver! Between milk and butter we more than justify our membership. Sat Nov 07 20:14:48 -0800 2009 5136220 265047 puddin head 4 5130590 I joined Costco for free the first year when it opened about a mile from my house and found that it was worth paying the membership fee even for a single person like myself. I have certain beauty products and medicines I use fairly regularly that cost anywhere from 50-75% more at other stores. I can get a 6-12-month supply of a few products in one visit and that will typically recoup the membership costs. There are plenty of other non-bulk items that are cheaper too- like books, DVDs, video games, electronics, and clothing. As for the food, most of it is in very large sizes. If you think you'll be buying enough of the other stuff, then the food is really only a bonus. I live about 45 minutes away from Costco now, so any refrigerated food is limited to a small cooler. Sun Oct 25 19:53:20 -0700 2009 5129445 107671 queencru 4 5135248 We now have Costco Gaz at many Costco around Montreal, they are usually 2-3c a liter cheaper than the other gas stations. As for a membership, i live alone and manage to make the most of my membership with some food items both dry/canned and fresh, gas and household staples (toilet paper, garbage bags) and that's not counting the other items i might have purchased in the past years such as Books and DVD's that are often cheaper than other stores. Tue Oct 27 13:16:13 -0700 2009 5129445 158026 westaust 4 5135289 Tire service is great. I'm lucky that my inlaws are in the states. I bought tires down yonder (Michelin) and have have them serviced up here. Twice I drove over something puncturing the tire. Fixed free of charge. They rotate them free of charge as well. Their oil changes are pretty cheap too. To say that it's not for a two person household is absurd. There's plenty of things you can buy there cheaper than at another store. It will more than make up for the savings. DT Tue Oct 27 13:30:44 -0700 2009 5129445 11291 Davwud 5 5135319 That's good to know. Like I said, I've had it for a year and I haven't really seen any really stellar deals that I couldn't get elsewhere and I guess I'm just not a fan of having large sizes of items, like we've been working on a mayo jar for the last little while and it expires in Dec. so I doubt we'll finish by then. Also disappointing is the selection here in Canada vs. U.S. I find many more interesting food items in U.S. I just don't know why you'd want to shop there as a two-person household? A jar of mayo for example is just as cheap at grocery store if you get on sale than a larger one that might be good value, but you'll never fully use. Kind of defeats the purpose IMO. And that's what it is, my opinion. I will check out the oil change and tire thing though cause last time I got hosed at Mr. Lube. Tue Oct 27 13:40:55 -0700 2009 5135289 1104460 Restaurant Dish 6 5135424 Not sure how Costco sources product in Canada, but here in Illinois I've been seeing more multi-packs of retail size product than jumbo tubs. Years ago I shopped at the long-defunct Warehouse Club which was chock-full of #10 cans of just about everything. My local Costco has but a few items in #10 can size (notably San Marzano tomatoes for about the same price as a "large" can in the chain groceries). Tue Oct 27 14:19:44 -0700 2009 5135319 202198 ferret 6 5135521 It's precisely why I don't by mayo at Costco. It's like going to any other store. If you don't bother to check against the competitor, you'll save money on some items and not on others. I'm not sure you're right about the selection here in Canada. I go to the one in Huntsville, Al. alot. It's different but once you're used to what they have, it seems like the same old stuff. It's just perspective. DT Tue Oct 27 15:01:11 -0700 2009 5135319 11291 Davwud 7 5135732 I think it's a little more than just perspective. And I find it shocking, yes shocking, that an Alabama Costco would have the same items/brands as a Scarborough or Mississauga Costco. In fact, I'd be surprised if they did, save for a few staple items. When I went to the NJ one, I didn't see a thing in that trip that I've ever seen here, including San Marzano tomatoes, types of snacks, sauces, and frozen products. Tue Oct 27 16:29:13 -0700 2009 5135521 1104460 Restaurant Dish 8 5136946 I didn't say they have the same items as one in Mississauga. I said, once you're used to the items they have there, it's not as special to go there any more. I went to one in Indianapolis earlier this year. It was different. I'm sure if I went there all the time it would be same ole, same ole. DT Wed Oct 28 07:17:13 -0700 2009 5135732 11291 Davwud 9 5136978 So then what are we talking about then? I said the U.S. Costco has different, maybe even 'better' items than the Canadian ones I've been too. Then you said, yeah it's different but if you keep going to the same one, it'll seem the same. Whaaaa??? I think you are agreeing with me. But maybe it took a few posts to get there. Wed Oct 28 07:31:25 -0700 2009 5136946 1104460 Restaurant Dish 10 5136998 Maybe I am and just don't know. What I'm trying to say is, the US stores seem better because you see stuff that you don't see here in TO. If the roles were reversed and you came here from you local California Costco, it would seem more interesting because it's a bunch of stuff you've not seen before. Get it?? DT Wed Oct 28 07:38:41 -0700 2009 5136978 11291 Davwud 11 5137061 Yep, I 'get it'. But I 'don't agree'. I'm going to use the same example that a recent poster on here just used: that's like saying that it's all in my head that the clothes at Nordstrom are better than the clothes at Wal Mart! Does. Not. Make. Any. Sense. Now, you can argue 'better' is relative. And it is. I may enjoy great Spanish, Greek olive oils and San Marzano tomatoes and so that appeals to me more when I see that at the U.S. Costco, whereas here, I seem to see the same olive oil and same can of tomatoes. It seems that every time I go to U.S. and I usually go to the same Costco, that they have 'new' products which I just don't see here in my Costco. Maybe your Costco is different here in Canada, don't know. Wed Oct 28 07:59:39 -0700 2009 5136998 1104460 Restaurant Dish 12 5137153 The Costco business model is to turn over an item in 14 days but wait 30-45 days to pay the vendor. That's how the company makes money. There are "regular" items that last more than 14 days as well as "seasonal" items that show up and then vanish for a year. There are also locally produced but similar items in all stores (bread, dairy, some meats, fish and fowl. Kielbasas are in each store, but it is Hillshire Farm brand in San Diego and Kowalski brand in Detroit for example). I very much disagree that Costco sells poor quality items. I personally know buyers from different departments and the whole philosophy each has told me over the years is quality is primary with bulk pricing secondary. The fact that the food buyers started concentrating on organic products more than six years ago shows me that they are quality as well as cost conscious. The fact that you can return any item even years after purchase (until people started abusing the electronics return policy) if dissatisfied shows the confidence the company has in what it sells. Wed Oct 28 08:22:10 -0700 2009 5137061 12123 Cathy 13 5137622 I was commenting to you about not seeing 'new' items. Certainly you have had Halloween and Christmas decor, foods and gifts in your stores, right? The person who was commenting about Walmart vs Nordstrom quality seems to have been vanquished. That was the other part of my comment. ..as well as rambling... Wed Oct 28 11:01:46 -0700 2009 5137364 12123 Cathy 12 5137326 I think we're both in the GTA, no?? I usually go to the two north of Major Mack in RH and NM. Both are good. Where is the one in the US that you usually go to?? DT Wed Oct 28 09:37:51 -0700 2009 5137061 11291 Davwud 13 5137402 Yes, GTA but I usually go to the Warden Ave. one out of more convenience. I think I'll try the RH one to check any difference. I go to a few when I'm in NJ/NYC and they are in the Short Hills/Montclair areas. Checked out the one in Brooklyn once, it was neat. Had some good deli and cheeses there. A writer friend was going to do a comparison on shopping at Costco for a month vs. regular grocery store and compare, but not sure what happened to that article. I'd love to see the results. Wed Oct 28 10:01:40 -0700 2009 5137326 1104460 Restaurant Dish 14 5137411 The Warden one sucks. It's closest to my Godparents and they go to the RH one. The one at Elgin Mills and 404. It's too bad there aren't any in the WNY area. DT Wed Oct 28 10:05:05 -0700 2009 5137402 11291 Davwud 15 5137470 That might be the problem then. I'll check out the other one. And yes, it is too bad. It'd be nice to hop over the border and get some U.S. products other than those at Wegman's. Wed Oct 28 10:26:46 -0700 2009 5137411 1104460 Restaurant Dish 7 5136625 Gotta disagree with you there, DT. My wife always goes to Costco when she's in the states, just because she feels they have many items that don't show up on Canadian shelves. Wed Oct 28 03:27:02 -0700 2009 5135521 1104506 FrankD 4 5138605 Actually, that is only if more than half is left. I had a 4 pack of tuna when I noticed that the last can was bulging. They wouldn't let me return it because I had already eaten the other 3 cans. I left it there. Wed Oct 28 16:05:45 -0700 2009 5129445 13523 michelley 2 5136050 I'm a one person two dog household and I have found being a member very worthwhile... for 15 years now. I use my FoodSaver sealer and freeze meats. I use my Green bags for veggies. I buy tires and toilet paper and vitamins and prescriptions... It's perfect when I have parties. As for what's good to eat. Their smoked salmon is an amazing deal. And you can freeze smoked salmon easily. For holiday baking I stock up on their dried fruit and nuts. Tue Oct 27 18:31:11 -0700 2009 5126093 28006 Jennalynn 3 5148211 One person, 3 big dogs. The savings in kibble alone more than pays for my membership. The Kirkland dog and cat kibbles are very highly rated by independent organizations that test pet food quality. A 40# bag costs slightly more than a 20# bag of comparable quality supermarket food. If I bought the latter, I would spend about $70 per month. Buying at Costco, it's around $44. My other "every time" purchases there are vitamins/supplements, dish detergent, shampoo, cheese, and store-baked bread (comes in 2-loaf packs; I slice both and freeze one loaf). Frequent purchases include 3# bags of nuts, rotisserie chicken, books, onions, wine for cooking, peanut butter. Sun Nov 01 21:34:36 -0800 2009 5136050 159317 greygarious 1 5126119 tires, computers, books, glasses, wine, produce, great steaks - ribs - cheese - roasted chicken, paper goods, in season stuff like fertilizer. We just priced a safe at Home Depot $269/same safe but better at Costco for $229. I have an executive membership and I buy a regular one for all my emploees and their spouses/partners. Fri Oct 23 14:31:40 -0700 2009 5125955 148886 duck833 2 5128509 what a nice boss Sat Oct 24 19:16:28 -0700 2009 5126119 11854 LaLa 1 5127017 You should give it a try...I buy all of my gas there as it's at least ten cents cheaper per gallon. Plus, with my Costco Am Ex card I get 3% back at the end of the year...last year with gas hovering at $4 that came in handy. My contacts, which are really pricey, are $100 cheaper than at doctors office. The wine is a good deal as are their premium cheeses. Our best deal was a beautiful teak patio set that we saved hundreds on compared to Smith & Hawken. I think you may find that even though there are only two of you there are bargains to be had. Sat Oct 24 03:57:52 -0700 2009 5125955 138943 grouper 2 5136071 Well, I won't get to the question of whether Costco is or isn't cheaper overall, but your comparison of Costco against Smith & Hawken for patio furniture is at best questionable--that's like saying shop for clothes at Wal-mart because they're cheaper than Nordstrom. Duh. You're talking about stores and goods that aren't even in the same universe, and any "comparison" simply isn't valid. Even if the goods were under the same label, they may be very different in quality. Now a comparison between Costco and, say Target, that might be more useful. As for optical, I recently bought glasses at For Eyes that were cheaper than the same thing at Costco. Again, the outcome of the comparison depends on who you're comparing with. Tue Oct 27 18:38:25 -0700 2009 5127017 10668 johnb 3 5136185 Actually Sams and Costco get lots of items that are "high dollar name brands" . Tue Oct 27 19:27:17 -0700 2009 5136071 11854 LaLa 3 5136239 Your comparisons to Target and Wal-Mart are not valid at all. I've never seen a Target that carries $14,000 engagement rings, $700 office chairs, or $3000 mattresses, all of which are available for purchase at Costco. Also featured online are $1000+ espresso makers and wine cellars and fairly high-end appliances. Tue Oct 27 19:49:57 -0700 2009 5136071 107671 queencru 4 5136251 and caskets... Tue Oct 27 19:56:51 -0700 2009 5136239 12123 Cathy 5 5136256 Yes. I've never quite figured that one out. Tue Oct 27 20:00:14 -0700 2009 5136251 131001 c oliver 6 5136324 Funeral homes, cemeteries, florists, the church...its all a business. Law says you do not have to buy everything from one place. You are charged separately for the rental of a viewing room, embalming, the casket...and lots of other ancillary items. People are emotional and for the most part buy a package. I looked into it; an oak one from Costco was about $200 cheaper than the funeral home charged. Lots of laws, have to buy and send to a funeral home in the same state. Much fine print if you read the Costco.com page. On the other hand, bulk flowers are a great deal... Tue Oct 27 20:35:45 -0700 2009 5136256 12123 Cathy 6 5136803 Put it on the dead person's AMEX card...and see if they collect. Wed Oct 28 06:09:47 -0700 2009 5136256 11290 jfood 7 5139148 This is a wonderful image. Roll the casket up to the cash register. The lid opens, and the hand of the dearly departed reaches out to sign the cc slip. Wed Oct 28 19:31:53 -0700 2009 5136803 10668 johnb 5 5136263 I was going to bring that one up, but didn't want to get chastised for it not being a funeral home. Tue Oct 27 20:01:58 -0700 2009 5136251 107671 queencru 4 5136725 Sorry, I wasn't trying to compare Costco as a store to, say, Target as a store. I was only pointing out that saying Costo is cheap, and offering as evidence a comparison of something it sells to a product of the same genre at a place like Smith & Hawken is not valid, because it's a false comparison--Smith & Hawken, unless it has recently changed its business model, is a very high end, very high markup retailer, and I would expect them to always be significantly more expensive than just about anybody. When making product price comparisons to show how economical Costco is, it's more appropriate to make comparisons with products being sold in stores that are at least in the same retail orbit. I'm sure Costco is reliably inexpensive, and if one is positioned to shop there a lot for things they would buy anyway, and doesn't mind the downsides (the drive depending on one's proximity, the long lines, the lack of bagging, etc.) then it is a fine choice and worth the cost of the membership. But in threads like this one often sees inappropriate price comparisons. Here's another example. Folks often point out that Costco's paper goods are inexpensive, based on comparison with grocery store prices. Costco certainly is cheap compared to the "regular" price in supermarkets. But is this valid? My wife and I used to own a B&B, and believe me I bought LOTS of toilet paper. Some toilet paper is nearly always on sale in the supermarket, and any given brand/type is generally reduced on a regular cycle. I found that I could buy all the toilet paper I needed at the supermarket for essentially the same price as Costco, simply by stocking up when they put it on sale, a common shopping strategy. Same thing is true of many many things. So the real comparison between Costco and the supermarket should not be be the "regular" supermarket price (which in my view isn't the real price to start with but an artificial price to trap the unwary), but the so-called sale price (which is in my view the true price). Sure, it's convenient to be able to go to Costco and know you'll get the good price any time, but for the average person a shopping trip to Costco takes longer than the local supermarket, and involves extra hassles. And most people find they have to go to the supermarket frequently anyway. So whether the reliably lower prices are worth the extra shopping time and hassle, and membership fee, is not always the slam dunk that some say it is. It depends on the individual's situation, shopping strategies, and preferences. Those who are pondering whether to get a membership, and actually care about such nuances, should factor that in. Wed Oct 28 05:22:00 -0700 2009 5136239 10668 johnb 5 5136805 Again, I think you're trying to compare apples to oranges. I do not shop at Costco a lot, nor do I need to. Much of the stuff I buy there comes in large quantities that will last me for at least 3-4 months before I need to go back. Yes it is a farther drive, but in some areas, the cost is only 25% of what you'd find in other stores. For instance, I just got a generic of a daily use allergy medicine for $16 for 365, while the cheapest I've seen on sale at any other store is $27 for 120. Many of the other products I buy there are also less than 50% of the cost of what I've seen elsewhere, so even if there is a 2 for 1 sale in a regular store, I've saved money at Costco. Costco also does send the sale booklet and in some areas I've seen up to a $450 or more savings on items like computers and large TVs. Whether Costco is going to be worth it depends on what each person needs and plans on buying there. I would not recommend going there for the weekly shopping trip, but I still think it's a great value for other things like health/beauty, books, DVD sets, clothes, and a variety of other items. Wed Oct 28 06:11:18 -0700 2009 5136725 107671 queencru 5 5136806 To your TP example, where jfood lives, even on sale the TP at Costco is at least 20% less expensive than the grocer's on-sale price. But you bring up a valid point of the old addage..."know your prices." Wed Oct 28 06:12:09 -0700 2009 5136725 11290 jfood 5 5138481 Smith & Hawken did recently change it's business model. It's going out of business. Wed Oct 28 15:29:07 -0700 2009 5136725 28006 Jennalynn 6 5138652 If you look just below you will see this has already been brought into the discussion. But it doesn't change the essential point--if anything, it may reinforce it. To restate, price comparisons for a given type item (patio furniture; toilet paper, whatever) are valid only when comparing the prices charged by retailers who are of similar kind, and thus are a practical alternative. The fact that Costco sells patio furniture more cheaply than some super high end high markup luxo retailer is a false comparison and really isn't very helpful for someone who is trying to decide whether to join Costco. Wed Oct 28 16:21:09 -0700 2009 5138481 10668 johnb 7 5139206 I don't think it's a false comparison at all. If you want to buy a specific item and it's $50 at Costco and $150 at a department store, that's useful to know when making a decision. It makes more sense to compare retailers who sell the same items at the same time than to compare retailers based on their categorization as a discount warehouse or luxury department store. If you're talking about $10K+ engagement rings, you really have to compare the merchandise with other stores that would sell it. Wed Oct 28 19:59:35 -0700 2009 5138652 107671 queencru 8 5139640 The reason it's a false comparison is because the purpose of this thread, as stated by the OP at the beginning, is to learn whether they should go ahead and get the membership in Costco. Please reread the original post. It is clear that the OP, like many others in the past who have posted this same question about getting a membership in Costco, is really asking whether the extra saving THEY will achieve will be greater than the membership fee. To answer this question meaningfully and helpfully, it is necessary to compare prices charged by Costco with prices in stores where the OP would otherwise be likely to shop. The OP specifically mentioned groceries, so for this thread the most helpful comparisons would be with typical supermarkets. But even if the OP's interest had been patio furniture, it is obvious they are price-sensitive, and as such it is extremely unlikely that their alternative would be a high end, high markup luxury retailer such as the dearly departed Smith & Hawken or others like it. Rather, their alternative would be a place like Home Depot or Target or another low-markup retailer of that ilk. That is why the price comparison with S&H is "inappropriate" or "false." I'm sure that just about any item sold at Costco can be found somewhere at 2 or 3 times Costco's price, say for example Bloomingdales or Nordstroms or Tiffany or Whole Foods. Does that prove, or even suggest, that Costco has the lowest prices to be found out there, thus justifying the membership fee? No. To be helpful, price comparisons have to be made with appropriate and meaningful comparators, i.e. the true alternatives available for the particular item in question. My point over several posts now (this is the last one) is that luxury department stores and other high markup retailers are not, by any stretch of the imagination, meaningful comparators that will help anyone decide whether the upfront cost of joining Costco is money well spent. Thu Oct 29 05:46:44 -0700 2009 5139206 10668 johnb 2 5136801 The Smith and Hawken business model, unfortunately, did not work. Jfood will really miss that store for the orchids. http://www.smithandhawken.com/ Wed Oct 28 06:08:36 -0700 2009 5127017 11290 jfood 3 5137603 Very interesting. It is said S&H's founders were recommending people boycott the place, since its most recent owner was Scotts Miracle-Gro, who didn't fit the organic/sustainability idea they put forth in their time. Of course I doubt that had much to do with its demise; write that off to the current economic climate. Frou-frou and high markups are out, low prices are in. Good for Costco, needless to say. Also Wal-mart. Wed Oct 28 10:56:58 -0700 2009 5136801 10668 johnb 1 5127023 Coffee - Kirkland Columbian coffee is great for the price. We used to buy 20 pounds at a time (no costco in our town so had to drive several hundred miles to get to one). Cheeses are a good buy. If you eat such stuff, cereals, chips, crackers, and snacks are a good buy. Electronics, some small appliances, vitamins, etc. are good buys. But beware, not all the prices are lower than your grocery store - you need to know what you pay for cheerios, for example to compare. I'd always look longingly at the meats and produce, but with two people in our household it was not feasible to buy in the quantities offered by Costco. Also we often found great buys on wine and beer. We mainly bought the beverages I mentioned, and still felt the membership was worth it. Sat Oct 24 04:13:27 -0700 2009 5125955 139725 janniecooks 1 5127226 You do need to watch out with some of the "bargains," however. We were shopping for a low-tech vcr/dvd player and they had one model under $100. When we got home we looked up the comments on Amazon and it was almost unanimously declared a piece of junk. So I suspect Costco will occasionally be suckered into taking some products that vendors want to get rid of. But as far as the big moneysavers like tires & glasses, along with the food, you can't beat it. Sat Oct 24 07:26:58 -0700 2009 5125955 263884 azveggieguy 1 5127352 It works well for me, you can pay for your with the savings on gasoline alone. I bought a set of tires, no one could even come close to their price. Other values, on meats including USDA Prime, cheese and wine are also pretty un-beatabe. I also use their free AMEX card which combine with membership gives me 5% cash back annually. Also, if you don't like Costco, they'll refund your membership, no questions asked. Not much risk at all. Sat Oct 24 08:32:17 -0700 2009 5125955 149836 cstr 2 5127374 The two of us get a membership but we stretch it out by stocking up on non-perishables the month it expires so a membership actually lasts us about 18 months. Most items we depend on are not food items so I won't distract the Chowhound community with those. Sat Oct 24 08:43:05 -0700 2009 5127352 64491 mickie44 1 5128175 This is a very timely topic for me, as I just purchased a membership (w/ my husband) and visited Costco today for the very first time to use it (location- Northern VA, close to the Pentagon). My husband and I are not likely Costco consumers as it's just the two of us (plus a fat little dog, but not THAT big of an eater) with a tiny apartment. Still, we had a fun time, minus the crowds. Bought some pristinely fresh, marinated, cooked shrimp for dinner tonight, along w/ their double loafs of roasted garlic bread (ate 1/2 the loaf tonight w/ the rest in the freezer). A bottle of Coppola claret that I'm currently enjoying, a waffle undershirt, a bag of dried mangos, and a bag of raw almonds (which I then roast myself in the oven w/ a little bit of salt). Total price for the day- less that $100 and we were clearly an anomaly. We didn't take a push-cart and naively asked for a hand-basket and were laughed at- not a common request at Costco, I suppose. Confession time- the real reason I bought the membership was for the jewelry. I'm pricing diamond necklaces and Costco has every other place beat including the wholesalers in NY. I expect that purchase along will pay for the membership. Just don't tell my husband. Or the dog. Sat Oct 24 15:59:25 -0700 2009 5125955 220645 mjhals 2 5135299 Their dog food is good quality and cheap. DT Tue Oct 27 13:34:17 -0700 2009 5128175 11291 Davwud 1 5128385 By all means it is worth it. My wife and I joined a little over a year ago at a new store in Northern Florida. There are three of us at home, with three cars. We got the "premium" membership for $100 and it comes with an American Express card at no charge. The first year of membership, we got a rebate of about $400. As another poster noted, gas is about a dime cheaper and we get a 3% discount on top of that, in the year end rebate. So gas is really another 8 cents cheaper on top of the dime. The food there is not just about gallons of mayonaise. Yes, you have to buy larger sizes, but sometimes it is just two bottles of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce shrink wrapped together. The meats are great, particularly steaks. You buy 3-4 in a package so if you are having company, it is worthwhile. Sometimes they even have USDA Prime, something you will never see in a regular supermarket. Roast chickens are cheaper than you can cook at home and about half of other supermarket prices. Cheese selection is best in town and the wine is extraordinary. If you see a rare wine, get it then as they won't necessarily stock it. Same goes for other items as well. they may get a carload of something, and then it is gone. The chairman of the company is eccentric and will not allow any item in store to be marked up more than 14% over cost. They sell tires for less than local tire shops buy them wholesale. Finally, they have a generous return policy. I took back a receipt for some pork that had been packaged with lots of fat underneath, and a picture, and got a refund. In fact, of the five or six items I have returned, there is always a cheeful 100% refund with no hassle. Sat Oct 24 18:03:29 -0700 2009 5125955 12296 steakman55 2 5130668 I think they're doing a better job with same items and are packaging two smaller rather than one gigantic. Sun Oct 25 20:33:40 -0700 2009 5128385 131001 c oliver 1 5128480 We have a membership for a two person household. I would keep it if I became a solo shopper. Between just coffee, gasoline, campari tomatoes, organic spring mix and Kashi cereal our savings pays for itself. Cheese, meats, seafood, wine and roast chicken are purchased regularly. I have also purchased and saved large amounts on various white goods and electronics. Most of our food purchases are fresh. Our canned/boxed purchases are generally once or twice a year. The canned goods are an economic way for us to give more food to food drives. Their customer service has been great. We had several $$$ returns that were handled easily with absolutely no problem. I now ask the return desk if an item I am considering has had many problems - they have steered me away from a few things, which I appreciated! Sat Oct 24 18:57:36 -0700 2009 5125955 111267 meatn3 2 5128936 Just buy the membership and return it after 364 days. No worries at all. Is what I did, says right in the rules in plain English you may return the membership within 1 Year and get your entire amount of money back. Have fun Josey. Sun Oct 25 02:53:43 -0700 2009 5128480 226945 Woof Woof Woof 3 5129670 "Just buy the membership and return it after 364 days. No worries at all." Yeah that's why prices never goes up. Sun Oct 25 13:03:22 -0700 2009 5128936 243172 Samalicious 1 5128940 I live alone and love Costco. I do have an extra freezer and freeze meats, breads, etc. I also split most fresh produce with a friend. Here is an older link, from here: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/359092 Sun Oct 25 03:23:32 -0700 2009 5125955 15691 mcel215 1 5128950 No membership needed to purchase medication at their pharamacy or getting contacts or glasses. They will take your prescription and insurance and it will still be cheaper than other places. No membership needed to eat at their snack shop either. Sun Oct 25 04:10:12 -0700 2009 5125955 258262 flylice2x 1 5129557 I like Costco, but you have to keep your eyes open. I remember seeing a special on shaving cream for example - 3 cans wrapped together - but I thought the price was a bit high so I didn't get it. When I went to the local drug store, I found they were selling single cans (not on special) for less than Costco's per can price. Same thing with meats. Sure, you can buy a nice pack of 8 New Yorks at Costco, and get good quality meat, but unless you're inviting a bunch of people, I find it more convenient to visit a local high end grocery, pay about the same price per pound, and just get the two or three steaks I need. Other grocery items: you need to know what you're going to pay at your local grocery, how often you use stuff, and whether you use enough of it often enough to justify purchasing a massive box/can/jar. (And I agree with other posters - sometimes, they just shrink wrap two or three cans together, which makes it easier to decide.) For example, I like smoked tinned oysters, which are usually $1-$1.25 per tin at my grocery. Costco had 6 tins for $4.85, so I bought those. But oysters can sit on the shelf for months. Costco also offers 3 packs of bread, but I don't even use 1 loaf per week, and I have no room in my freezer, so this is not a bargain for me. Overall, they have enough stuff at good prices (books, magazines, basic clothes) that they make sense for me, especially as I fill a lot of prescriptions there. YMMV. Sun Oct 25 12:06:37 -0700 2009 5125955 1104506 FrankD 1 5130194 The food items jfood purchases: Coffee,granola bars, campari tomatoes, organic lettuces, cheeses, bottled water, gatorade, soda, OJ, grapes, onions, party food when the kids are home; Plus: Batteries, books, soap, cleaning supplies, napkins, paper towels, TP, socks, plastic bags, plastic wrap, aluminum foil Yes it is worth it even for a 2-top in jfood's opinion. Sun Oct 25 17:35:44 -0700 2009 5125955 11290 jfood 1 5131466 So, we went on Saturday and signed up for 1 year. First of all, we really liked the poutine and hot dog!! That was a nice surprise. We really looked a stuff where we know the prices and didn't find everything is cheaper. Some stuff is actually a lot more expensive than at Superstore. But other things were cheaper (like juice, shampoo). The smoked oysters were a little over $1 and they are usually $2,99! That was a steal! I liked the cheese and the fresh ravioli/tortellini selection. The canned veggie selection was disappointing but the frozen food variety was good. The one thing that convinced me though was the Bavarian Rye Bread from BC. The price is great ($5.49/over 1kg) and it really tastes authentic (I am originally from Bavaria so I should know eh?). I love it! Overall, I think we won't save much (if any with the $55 membership) but I like that I can get stuff I usually can't esp. the bread). Thanks for all your input, I am glad we went and tried it. Mon Oct 26 08:34:25 -0700 2009 5125955 234943 josey124 1 5134484 We are only 2 people but we do save enough on paper goods, vitamins, cleaning supplies to pay the membership fee. And 2 people can eat the T bone steak and rotisserie chicken. I've bought some Speedo woman's bathing suits for less than 1/2 the advertised price plus a few huge beach towels, beach umbrella and bed-bath stuff.for a song. For gifts they have quality cashmere sweaters, electronics, books, toys, baby clothes, candy, discounted gift cards (Starbucks) etc.that are name brands and about 2/3 retail or less. If you contribute to a food pantry you can really stretch a few dollars on canned goods. If you cook for a youth group or shelter there are restaurant size quantities dirt cheap for say a pancake breakfast or a spaghetti dinner. The place is a mecca for people having cookouts or any large party. Great prepared foods for entertaining or pot luck. You can get a huge layer cake decorated to order for under 15 dollars. Terrific cheese, smoked fish, fruit and hors d'ouvres. People are addicted to their baked goods and they are super cheap. I think I deserve free membership after writing all this but I do like the place. Tue Oct 27 09:27:50 -0700 2009 5125955 66281 ginnyhw 2 5134543 Depending on what you buy, myself and friends have saved money on the following: -gas -tires -car purchase -hotel -car rental -empty propane tanks -garden hoses -USDA prime steaks - milk - clothes (Dockers, Calvin Klein, Kenneth Cole, Van Heusen, etc) - birthday party cakes for kids -Turbo Tax -Hunter-Douglas blinds -GPS unit ...and many other things. Typically our membership (wife + myself) pays for itself over the course of a year. If you order things online and don't like them, you can return to the store for full refund (even shipping charges). Their return policy is among the best anywhere. Usually the refund on membership fees is prorated, ie if you have been a member for 10moonths they will refund 2 months worth of your membership... I doubt you will get a full refund after being a member for 11months and 28 days. Tue Oct 27 09:39:36 -0700 2009 5134484 67551 caliking 3 5134570 And let's not forget 10% off postage stamps, man if they could only expand that program to 10% of income tax. :-) Tue Oct 27 09:49:09 -0700 2009 5134543 11290 jfood 4 5156984 In what part of the US does Costco sell postage at a discount? Here it's merely a convenience, excepting that they bought up the Forever stamp and now sell it at 25 cents off the cost of 100 at the current rate. So, Costco saved on the deal, but the member only saves 25 cents and a trip to the post office. Not complaining, by any means, but I would love to know where they sell at 10% off, in case I travel there! Wed Nov 04 19:25:20 -0800 2009 5134570 24126 amyzan 5 5157381 CT Thu Nov 05 04:12:52 -0800 2009 5156984 11290 jfood 5 5158118 Brooklyn, NY Thu Nov 05 09:16:32 -0800 2009 5156984 13523 michelley 6 5159443 south carolina Thu Nov 05 16:21:10 -0800 2009 5158118 11854 LaLa 5 5159548 So, to clarify, you all pay $39.60 for 100 Forever stamps in CT, Brooklyn, and SC? Kansas Costco members pay $43.75 for the same. Thu Nov 05 17:00:31 -0800 2009 5156984 24126 amyzan 6 5159596 San Diego Costco members pay $43.75. Apparently you need to be farther North and East to get the deals. Thu Nov 05 17:17:05 -0800 2009 5159548 12123 Cathy 7 5163838 Los Angeles here. I bought Holiday stamps at a 25 cent savings for 100. But I was there and it saved me a trip to the post office. Sat Nov 07 14:59:32 -0800 2009 5159596 28006 Jennalynn 1 5134609 There's only two people in my house, but there's nine cats and Costco has been a boon for our cat food/litter needs. Our Costco is an older one so we can't get the nifty stuff like deli and rotisserie chicken--supposedly they were going to build in a new location but that hasn't happened yet--but it still has a lot of good stuff. About the only thing I won't buy there is produce because with the exception of carrots it's just too much to use before it goes bad. That being said, I've bought everything from rib roasts to iPods there. Tue Oct 27 10:01:41 -0700 2009 5125955 23970 MandalayVA 1 5136716 Do I think being a member of Costco or BJ’s is worth it, yes. Would I pay for it if I was only shopping for 2 no. You can get two different cards as part of your membership so I think its in your best interest to share one membership, obviously cutting the costs out right. The deli and meat selection is great, as is the prepared foods and not all of it is in bulk, and lets face it there’s no reason you cant buy things like paper towels, TP, detergent, water, pasta, cat litter/food, canned goods as well as some frozen foods in bulk. At the one I visit most frequently in queens they have an attached liquor depot as well, not the best selection but they usually have some stand-by bottle of wine if your in a pinch for cheaper then a regular NYC liquor store. Plus not everything IS in bulk; you can get plenty of items in their store in smaller sizes, or split items like my family does. I also like that they usually have quite a few items as samples everyday so you can decide that you like something before buying 5 lbs of it. Obviously I don’t do all of my regular shopping there, but for the staples I do use on a daily bases it’s a good resource to have. And as others have mentioned, I have utilized other discounts I get with them on rental cars and vacation items in the past. Wed Oct 28 05:16:30 -0700 2009 5125955 177720 Asumnuthin 2 5136823 We were members for years, but have dropped the membership even for our family of 4. If you are a careful shopper at the grocery store, you'll do better there if you shop the sales. However, we did find it worth it for two items: diapers and formula. And dog food is well priced there. Especially when we were in NYC where the dog food was !$/pound at the Food Emporium across the street, and we could get a 50 lb bag of dog food for 14$ at Costco Wed Oct 28 06:20:46 -0700 2009 5136716 61047 jwg 1 5137137 If you look at Costco's financial statements they are very interesting. They basically break even on selling stuff and running their stores. The net profit from operations come from membership fees!. Wed Oct 28 08:15:53 -0700 2009 5125955 148886 duck833