Costco’s Awesome 9 AM Access Upgrade Membership Today

Costco is rolling out an exciting new benefit for its Executive Membership holders: early shopping hours.

This exclusive perk allows Costco’s top-tier members to enter warehouses at 9 a.m. daily, a full hour before regular store hours begin.

For Costco fans who live for bulk buys, unbeatable deals, and the iconic $1.50 hot dog combo, this change is a big deal.

But what does it mean for shoppers, and why is it generating so much buzz?

This comprehensive guide dives into the details of new early shopping hours, how they stack up against competitors like Sam’s Club, and why this move could reshape the warehouse club shopping experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned member or considering joining, here’s everything you need to know about this game-changing update.

This new perk is a strategic move to enhance the value of its Executive Membership, which costs $130 annually and serves 37.6 million members worldwide.

The early shopping hours allow Executive Members to beat the crowds, snag high-demand items like Kirkland rotisserie chickens, bulk paper goods, or seasonal specials, and enjoy a more relaxed shopping environment.

Announced by CEO Ron Vachris in June 2025, the initiative reflects commitment to rewarding its loyal customers while staying competitive in the warehouse club market.

With long checkout lines and crowded parking lots being common pain points, this early access could be a game-changer for busy shoppers, families, and small business owners who value efficiency.

The move also positions to compete head-to-head with Sam’s Club, a key rival owned by Walmart.

Sam’s Club has offered early shopping hours for its Plus Members ($110 annually) for years, providing two hours of early access on weekdays and one extra hour on Saturdays.

Costco’s consistent one-hour early window, available daily including Sundays, offers a comparable but unique advantage.

Beyond shopping, Executive Members can access food courts, optical centers, and pharmacies during these early hours (though pharmacies are closed on Sundays), adding even more value to the membership.

The buzz around this change is palpable, especially on platforms like X, where enthusiasts are sharing their excitement about avoiding crowded aisles and securing popular items before they sell out.

For many, the ability to grab a $1.50 hot dog or schedule an eye exam without the usual rush is a major draw.

However, some Gold Star and Business members, who pay $65 annually, are debating whether the extra hour justifies doubling their membership fee.

This perk is part of broader strategy to drive upgrades to the Executive tier, which generated $3.6 billion in membership fees in the first three quarters of 2025 alone.

With 914 warehouses expected globally by year’s end, including new locations in Sweden, South Korea, and Canada, is betting that early access will entice more shoppers to join the Executive ranks, further fueling its $4.8 billion revenue stream from 2024.

In this guide, we’ll explore how early shopping hours work, compare membership benefits to Sam’s Club, and help you decide if upgrading to Executive Membership is worth it.

From practical tips to maximize your early shopping experience to insights into competitive strategy, this article covers it all.

Whether you’re stocking up on bulk toilet paper or eyeing that famous rotisserie chicken, Costco’s early shopping hours could transform your shopping routine.

What Are New Executive Member Shopping Hours?

“Executive Member Shopping Hours” offer a significant advantage to its 37.6 million Executive Membership holders.

Starting September 2, 2025, these members can shop at warehouses an hour earlier than regular members, gaining access to everything from bulk groceries to exclusive services like food courts, optical centers, and pharmacies.

Here’s a breakdown of the new schedule:

• Executive Member Shopping Hours: 9 a.m. daily (Sunday through Friday).
• Regular Store Hours: 10 a.m. (Sunday through Friday), 9:30 a.m. (Saturday).
• Additional Access: Executive members can use food courts, optical centers, and pharmacies during early hours (note: pharmacies are closed on Sundays).

This change gives Executive Members a head start on snagging high-demand items like the famous Kirkland rotisserie chicken, bulk toilet paper, or seasonal products before crowds descend.

It also helps them avoid the long checkout lines and packed parking lots that is known for.

Decision to launch early shopping hours comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance value for its highest-paying members and stay competitive in the warehouse club market.

Costco CEO Ron Vachris announced the initiative in June 2025, emphasizing the company’s commitment to rewarding its loyal Executive Members.

With 37.6 million Executive Members paying $130 annually, Costco is betting that this perk will solidify their loyalty and attract new members to upgrade from lower-tier plans.

The move also aligns Costco with its main rival, Sam’s Club, which has long offered early shopping hours for its Plus Members.

Sam’s Club, a Walmart-owned warehouse chain, provides two hours of early access on weekdays and one extra hour on Saturdays for its $110-per-year Plus Membership.

By matching this perk, Costco ensures it remains a top choice for bulk shoppers seeking convenience and exclusivity.

The Benefits of Being a Costco Executive Member

Costco’s Executive Membership already comes with a suite of benefits that make the $130 annual fee worthwhile for frequent shoppers.

The addition of early shopping hours only sweetens the deal. Here’s a closer look at what Executive Members gain:

1. Early Shopping Access: Starting at 9 a.m., Executive Members can shop before regular hours, giving them first dibs on high-demand items and a less crowded experience.
2. 2% Rewards on Purchases: Executive Members earn 2% back on eligible Costco purchases, up to $1,250 annually, which can offset the membership cost.
3. Exclusive Discounts: Access to additional savings on Costco services, such as travel, auto insurance, and home services.
4. $10 Monthly Same-Day Delivery Credit: As of June 2025, Executive Members receive a $10 credit for orders of $150 or more placed through Costco’s same-day delivery service or Instacart.
5. Priority Access to Services: Early entry extends to food courts, optical centers, and pharmacies, making it easier to schedule appointments or grab a quick meal.

These perks make the Executive Membership ideal for families, small business owners, or anyone who shops at Costco regularly.

For those who maximize their rewards and take advantage of early hours, the $130 fee can pay for itself.

Costco’s new early shopping hours put it on par with Sam’s Club, but there are key differences to consider.

Sam’s Club offers its Plus Members ($110 annually) two hours of early access on weekdays (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and one extra hour on Saturdays (8 a.m. to 9 a.m.).

Costco’s early shopping window is shorter (one hour daily), but it applies consistently across all days, including Sundays, when Sam’s Club’s early hours are limited.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Costco Executive Membership	Sam’s Club Plus Membership
Annual Fee	$130	$110
Early Shopping Hours	1 hour (9 a.m. daily)	2 hours weekdays, 1 hour Saturdays
Rewards Program	2% back, up to $1,250	2% back, up to $500
Delivery Benefits	$10 monthly credit for $150+ orders	Free shipping on most online orders
Additional Perks	Discounts on services, early access to food courts/pharmacies	Curbside pickup, pharmacy savings

While Sam’s Club offers a longer early shopping window, Costco’s broader rewards program and consistent daily access may appeal more to some shoppers.

Both clubs cater to bulk buyers, but Costco’s brand loyalty and iconic products (like the $4.99 rotisserie chicken) give it a unique edge.

Why Early Shopping Hours Matter?

For Costco shoppers, early access is more than just a convenience—it’s a game-changer.

Here’s why this perk is generating excitement:

1. Beat the Crowds: Costco warehouses are notorious for long lines and crowded aisles, especially during peak hours. Early shopping allows Executive Members to navigate the store with ease.
2. Snag High-Demand Items: Popular products like Kirkland rotisserie chickens, bulk paper goods, or seasonal items often sell out quickly. Early access ensures Executive Members get first pick.
3. Faster Checkouts: With fewer shoppers in the store, checkout lines are shorter, saving time for busy members.
4. Enhanced Food Court and Service Access: Grabbing a $1.50 hot dog or scheduling an eye exam before the rush adds significant value.
5. Parking Lot Advantage: Costco parking lots can be chaotic. Early arrival means better parking spots and less stress.

These benefits resonate with Costco’s core audience: value-driven shoppers who want to maximize their time and money.

For Executive Members, the ability to shop early could make all the difference during busy shopping seasons like back-to-school or the holidays.

Costco’s Membership Model: A Closer Look

Costco operates as a membership-only warehouse club, meaning only card-carrying members can shop at its stores or online.

The company offers three main membership tiers:

1. Gold Star Membership ($65/year): The base tier for individual shoppers, offering access to all Costco warehouses, online shopping, and fuel stations.
2. Business Membership ($65/year): Designed for small business owners, with the same benefits as Gold Star plus the ability to add additional cardholders for employees.
3. Executive Membership ($130/year): The premium tier, including all Gold Star benefits plus early shopping hours, 2% rewards, exclusive discounts, and delivery credits.

Costco’s membership model is a key driver of its success.

In the first three quarters of 2025, the company generated $3.6 billion in membership fees alone, with total revenue reaching $4.8 billion in 2024.

With 914 warehouses expected globally by the end of the fiscal year, including new locations in Sweden, South Korea, and Canada, Costco’s growth shows no signs of slowing.

The $130 annual fee for Costco’s Executive Membership is double the cost of the Gold Star or Business tiers, prompting many shoppers to ask: is it worth it?

The answer depends on your shopping habits.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide: Who Should Upgrade to Executive Membership?

• Frequent Shoppers: If you spend $3,250 or more annually at Costco, the 2% rewards alone ($65) can offset the fee difference between Executive and Gold Star memberships.
• Busy Professionals or Families: Early shopping hours and shorter lines are a major time-saver for those with tight schedules.
• Online Shoppers: The $10 monthly delivery credit for orders of $150+ is a boon for those who rely on Costco’s same-day or Instacart services.
• Service Users: If you use Costco’s optical, pharmacy, or food court regularly, early access enhances convenience.

Who Should Stick with Gold Star or Business Membership?

• Infrequent Shoppers: If you visit Costco only a few times a year, the 2% rewards may not justify the higher fee.
• Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The $65 Gold Star or Business memberships still offer access to Costco’s core benefits, including fuel and online shopping.
• Those Unaffected by Crowds: If you shop during off-peak hours or don’t mind crowds, early access may not be a dealbreaker.

To maximize value, calculate your annual Costco spending and consider how much you’d benefit from early hours and delivery credits.

For many, the Executive Membership’s perks make it a worthwhile investment.

The introduction of early shopping hours is part of Costco’s ongoing efforts to innovate and stay competitive.

Earlier in 2025, the company extended operating hours at its North American gas stations, responding to member demand for more fuel access.

Costco is also expanding globally, with plans to open new warehouses in Sweden, South Korea, and Canada, bringing its total to 914 by the end of the fiscal year.

Costco’s success is rooted in its ability to balance low prices with premium member benefits.

By offering exclusive perks like early shopping hours, the company incentivizes upgrades to higher-tier memberships, boosting revenue while enhancing customer loyalty.

The $3.6 billion in membership fees generated in the first three quarters of 2025 underscores the strength of this model.

How to Make the Most of Costco’s Early Shopping Hours?

If you’re an Executive Member or considering upgrading, here are tips to maximize the new early shopping perk:

1. Plan Your Visits: Arrive at 9 a.m. to take full advantage of the quieter store and shorter lines.
2. Stock Up on High-Demand Items: Target popular products like Kirkland rotisserie chickens, paper goods, or seasonal items before they sell out.
3. Use the Food Court Early: Grab a $1.50 hot dog or pizza slice before the lunch rush.
4. Schedule Appointments: Book optical or pharmacy appointments during early hours for faster service.
5. Combine with Delivery Credits: Use your $10 monthly same-day delivery credit for larger orders to save time and money.

The announcement of early shopping hours has sparked excitement among Costco’s dedicated fanbase.

On platforms like X, members are sharing their enthusiasm for beating the crowds and snagging deals early.

Some posts highlight the appeal of early food court access, with one user joking, “The $1.50 hot dog tastes even better at 9 a.m.!”

Others see the perk as a reason to upgrade to Executive Membership, especially for busy families or small business owners.

However, not everyone is sold. Some Gold Star members argue that the $130 fee is too steep for occasional shoppers, and others question whether an extra hour justifies the cost.

As one X user put it, “I love Costco, but I’m not waking up at 8 a.m. for toilet paper.” The debate reflects the diverse needs of Costco’s 100 million-plus members.

The Future of Costco’s Membership Perks

Costco’s introduction of early shopping hours signals a broader trend in retail: offering premium experiences to loyal customers.

As competition heats up with Sam’s Club, BJ’s Wholesale, and online retailers like Amazon, Costco is doubling down on exclusivity and convenience.

The company may explore additional perks, such as expanded delivery options or enhanced rewards, to keep Executive Members engaged.

With $4.8 billion in revenue in 2024 and a growing global footprint, Costco is well-positioned to continue its dominance in the warehouse club market.

The early shopping hours are just one piece of a larger strategy to reward members and drive growth.

Costco’s new Executive Member Shopping Hours, launching September 2, 2025, are a game-changer for its 37.6 million Executive Members.

By offering early access to warehouses, food courts, and services, Costco is significantly enhancing the value of its $130 membership while staying competitive with rivals like Sam’s Club.

For frequent shoppers, the ability to beat crowds, snag high-demand items, and save time makes upgrading to the Executive Membership a no-brainer.

Even for those on the fence, the combination of 2% rewards, delivery credits, and now early shopping hours makes the Executive Membership more appealing than ever.

As Costco continues to innovate and expand, this perk is a powerful reminder of why millions of shoppers swear by the warehouse club.

Whether you’re stocking up on Kirkland rotisserie chickens or grabbing a $1.50 hot dog, the early bird truly gets the worm—or in this case, the best deals. Ready to upgrade?

Visit Costco’s membership page to learn more about Executive Membership and start shopping smarter.

This new perk allows Executive Members to enter Costco warehouses at 9 a.m. daily, a full hour before regular store hours (10 a.m. Sunday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. on Saturday), giving them a head start on everything from bulk groceries to exclusive services like optical centers and pharmacies (note: pharmacies are closed on Sundays).

The early access is particularly valuable for snagging high-demand items like Kirkland rotisserie chickens, bulk toilet paper, or seasonal specials that often sell out quickly during peak hours.

For busy professionals, families, or small business owners, this means less time navigating crowded aisles or waiting in long checkout lines, which are notorious at Costco’s bustling warehouses.

The perk also extends to food courts, allowing members to enjoy the iconic $1.50 hot dog combo or a quick pizza slice before the lunch rush.

Announced by CEO Ron Vachris in June 2025, the early shopping hours are part of Costco’s strategy to reward its loyal Executive Members while competing with Sam’s Club, which offers its Plus Members ($110 annually) two hours of early access on weekdays and one extra hour on Saturdays.

Costco’s consistent daily one-hour window provides a unique edge, especially for members who shop on Sundays when Sam’s Club’s early hours are limited.

This move aligns with Costco’s broader growth strategy, as the company reported $3.6 billion in membership fees in the first three quarters of 2025 and $4.8 billion in total revenue in 2024.

With plans to expand to 914 warehouses globally by the end of the fiscal year, including new locations in Sweden, South Korea, and Canada, Costco is doubling down on enhancing member value to maintain its dominance in the warehouse club market.

The Executive Membership’s additional benefits, like 2% rewards on eligible purchases (up to $1,250 annually) and a $10 monthly credit for same-day delivery orders of $150+ through Costco or Instacart, make the $130 fee a worthwhile investment for frequent shoppers.

For those spending at least $3,250 annually, the rewards alone can offset the cost difference between the Executive and Gold Star ($65) memberships.

Social media platforms like X are buzzing with excitement, with members praising the ability to shop early and avoid the chaos.

One X post quipped, “Early access to Costco’s food court? That’s worth the $130 alone!”

However, some Gold Star members argue the fee is steep for occasional shoppers, sparking debates about whether the extra hour justifies the cost.

Costco’s early shopping hours also reflect a broader trend in retail: offering premium experiences to loyal customers.

As competition intensifies with Sam’s Club, BJ’s Wholesale, and online giants like Amazon, Costco is leveraging exclusivity to drive membership upgrades.

The perk could entice lower-tier Gold Star and Business members to upgrade, boosting Costco’s revenue while enhancing customer satisfaction.

For devotees who rely on Costco for bulk savings and quality products, this change underscores why the warehouse club remains a retail powerhouse.

Whether you’re stocking up for a big family or running a small business, early access ensures you get the best deals with less hassle.

Visit Costco’s website to explore membership options and join the early bird club today.

Stay Updated with CTC News