When it comes to bulk-buying, there are many great options out there. Names like Sam’s Club, BJ’s, Costco, and more, are all famous and reputable names.
However, out of those stores, Costco’s is the greatest in my opinion. From lower prices, better selection, better customer service, and more, I and many others (including my grandparents) consider Costco the GOAT of wholesale stores. You could also call Costco the BOAT (Best Of All Time).
You may wonder why, and I’m here to give both my reason why and my great experience.
From where I and probably you live, the nearest Costco is in Nashua, NH. The distance translates to roughly a 60-90 minute drive. However, despite the distance, it’s very much worth it.
Speaking from my experience, the best part of walking into a Costco store is just seeing the sheer size of everything. From the towering shelves, massive TVs, and amazing food court, the scenery is what will bring any first-timer to a state of pure awe.
You also can see how massive the store itself is, in comparison to the aforementioned towering shelves.
It’s also easy to see that they have some pretty good deals going on, and how many, if not hundreds of people, are there to take advantage of them as well.
I always enjoy strolling through the tech section and seeing all the cool computers they have. But, if you are looking to get a great PC for gaming, I’d recommend Micro Center.
However, the staple for many is the amalgamation of the low prices/deals, and sizes. For example, why get a 12.5 oz box of Cheez-Its at Hannaford’s for around $4, when you can get a 45-bag box of Cheez-Its at Costco for $18? Depending on what you want your portions to be, I’d go with Costco’s offer.
Just in general, you get many benefits from being a member. To add, the better of a membership you purchase, the more value you get from the store.
For example, members get access to a great selection of bulk discounts on food and home supplies, a vast selection of electronics and appliances, pharmaceutical services, and also gasoline/tire services. Yes, that’s right. Costco does gas.
And back on the topic of membership ranks, Gold Star, Business, Gold Star Executive, and Business Executive. The first 2 mentioned are $60 a year, and the second 2 are $120 a year. Despite the 2nd pair being double the price of the first ones, they come with many more perks.
Though I haven’t really dabbled in their furniture section, you can buy a massive 6-piece leather sofa, with many USB and Power outlets, for $3499. To pair with that, why not buy a massive 120-inch TV, which is $4499. While I am saying some big numbers here and there, Costco does have a deal right now, in which you can buy 5 furniture items or more, you can get $400 off. Not a bad deal if you want to spend big. The selection is massive (no pun intended).
Back on the topic of food though, Costco doesn’t disappoint. They have a large quantity of different foods. Why buy some chips from Hannafords or Walmart when you can buy a 54-pack of 1 oz chips (more specifically, it’s the good chips, Lays, Doritos, and Fritos)? Another great example would be that for under $20, you can get 30 10 oz bags of Popcorners (just so we’re clear, the best flavor is White Cheddar).
Not to mention, their samples also hit home runs every single time.
If hot and fresh foods are more your thing, you’ll be delighted to hear that they have a massive food section. The rotisserie chickens are amazing and of great value. Moreover, I would like to speak personally about my experience with their food court, and why it is truly amazing.
Though their delicious rotisserie chicken isn’t in their food court, what is in their food court are massive pizzas, tasty hot dogs, tasty churros and ice cream, and 20 oz soft drinks, for $0.69. With the other foods, their prices are very fair as well. However, be prepared for a line, as you aren’t the only hungry person there.
My personal favorite item to get at Costco is their 30-pack of 7.5oz Coke bottles (around $17.99). It’s great value for that many soda cans.
If my words aren’t enough to sway you into taking a trip down to Costco, many legitimate sources also claim Costco’s greatness. According to Investopedia, a trusted financial website, they stated that “When compared to other similar retailers, Costco’s competitive advantage lies in its private label, its discount prices, and its membership dues. This has provided customers with a product that they can rely on at low prices.” They also claim Costco has a great business model as a whole.
To add, numbers don’t lie. So, if we compare the price of a 62 oz jar of M&M’s in Costco ($15.59) and Sam’s Club ($16.48), we will find that Costco’s is 7% cheaper. Though it’s not a massive difference, you can tell which store has its priorities straight.
In conclusion, Costco is, in my opinion, the best store for wholesale. Their competitive pricing and great membership perks are great for shopping in bulk. If you’re not only there to shop in bulk, you get the peace of mind of knowing how much bang you’re getting for your bucks.
After all, Costco is where you go to keep the costs low.
INVESTOPEDIA SOURCE:
