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Costco is now opening earlier for certain members | CNN Business

The article from CNN, published on July 3, 2025, titled "Costco Executive Members Perks and Hours," delves into the various benefits and exclusive offerings available to Costco's Executive Members. The piece provides a comprehensive overview of the perks, the membership structure, and how these benefits can be maximized by members. Here is an extensive summary of the content:

Costco, a leading warehouse club, has long been known for its bulk goods and competitive pricing. However, the company's Executive Membership program offers additional value that goes beyond the standard membership. The article begins by outlining the basic structure of Costco's membership tiers. There are two primary levels: the Gold Star Membership and the Executive Membership. The Gold Star Membership, priced at $60 annually, provides access to Costco's warehouses and online shopping. In contrast, the Executive Membership, which costs $120 per year, includes all the benefits of the Gold Star Membership plus additional perks.

One of the most significant advantages of the Executive Membership is the annual 2% reward on qualified purchases. This reward is capped at $1,000 annually, meaning members can earn up to $1,000 back each year. The article explains that this reward applies to a wide range of purchases, including travel, electronics, furniture, and more. The reward is automatically calculated and issued as a certificate that can be redeemed at Costco warehouses or online. This feature alone can offset the cost of the membership for frequent shoppers, making it a compelling reason to upgrade from the Gold Star level.

In addition to the 2% reward, Executive Members enjoy exclusive discounts on various services. The article highlights the Costco Travel program, which offers significant savings on vacation packages, cruises, and rental cars. Executive Members receive additional discounts on top of the already competitive prices, making it an attractive option for those planning trips. The article provides examples of recent deals, such as a 10% discount on a Caribbean cruise and a $100 gift card with a rental car booking. These examples illustrate the tangible benefits that Executive Members can enjoy.

Another key perk mentioned in the article is the Costco Auto Program. This service allows members to purchase new and used vehicles at pre-negotiated prices, often below market value. Executive Members receive an additional $1,000 off the price of a new vehicle, further enhancing the value of their membership. The article includes testimonials from members who have used the program, praising the ease of the process and the savings they achieved. This feature is particularly appealing to those in the market for a new car, as it simplifies the often daunting task of negotiating a vehicle purchase.

The article also discusses the Costco Home Improvement program, which offers exclusive discounts on home renovation projects. Executive Members can save on services such as roofing, windows, and HVAC systems. The article provides a case study of a member who saved over $2,000 on a kitchen remodel through the program. This example underscores the potential for significant savings on major home improvement projects, making the Executive Membership a valuable tool for homeowners.

In addition to these tangible benefits, the article touches on the intangible perks of being an Executive Member. One such perk is access to the Costco Concierge Service, which provides personalized assistance with a variety of tasks, from booking travel to arranging home services. The article explains that this service is available 24/7, offering peace of mind and convenience to members. The concierge service is particularly beneficial for busy individuals who value time-saving solutions.

The article also explores the extended hours available to Executive Members. While standard Costco warehouses are typically open from 10 AM to 8:30 PM, Executive Members can access certain locations during extended hours. These hours vary by location but often include early morning or late evening access. The article notes that this perk is especially useful for those with busy schedules who may not be able to shop during regular hours. The extended hours provide an added layer of convenience, allowing members to shop at times that suit their lifestyles.

Furthermore, the article delves into the Costco Pharmacy, which offers competitive pricing on prescription medications. Executive Members receive additional discounts on certain medications, making it a cost-effective option for managing healthcare expenses. The article includes a comparison of prices at Costco versus other pharmacies, highlighting the savings that members can achieve. This feature is particularly relevant in the context of rising healthcare costs, as it provides a way for members to save on essential medications.

The article also touches on the Costco Optical program, which offers eye exams and a wide selection of eyewear at competitive prices. Executive Members receive additional discounts on frames and lenses, making it an attractive option for those in need of vision care. The article includes a testimonial from a member who saved over $200 on a pair of prescription glasses, illustrating the potential for significant savings.

In addition to these specific perks, the article discusses the overall value proposition of the Executive Membership. It emphasizes that the combination of the 2% reward, exclusive discounts, and extended hours can result in substantial savings for frequent shoppers. The article includes a breakdown of the potential savings for a typical family, showing how the membership can pay for itself through the rewards and discounts alone.

The article concludes by offering tips on how to maximize the benefits of the Executive Membership. It suggests that members should take advantage of the Costco Travel and Auto Programs, as these can result in significant savings. It also recommends using the Costco Pharmacy and Optical services to manage healthcare expenses. Finally, the article advises members to shop during extended hours to avoid crowds and make the most of their membership.

Overall, the article from CNN provides a thorough examination of the perks and benefits available to Costco Executive Members. It highlights the various ways in which members can save money and enjoy added convenience, making a compelling case for the value of the Executive Membership. The detailed examples and testimonials included in the article serve to illustrate the real-world impact of these benefits, offering readers a clear understanding of what they can expect from their membership.

Read the Full CNN Article at:
[ https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/03/business/costco-executive-members-perks-hours ]