by Los Angeles, California – Starting after the Labor Day weekend, Costco is officially rolling out exclusive early shopping hours for its Executive Members across all U.S. warehouse locations. The change, first announced in a June 11 company email, is designed to reward higher-tier members with more flexibility and convenience.
The update follows a short grace period for stores to adjust operations, which ended on August 31, 2025. From now on, Executive Members will enjoy earlier access to shopping and additional weekend perks.
What Are Costco’s New Executive Member Hours?
According to Costco’s announcement, Executive Members can now shop one hour earlier than other members during weekdays. Stores will open at 9 a.m. exclusively for these premium-level members.
The full breakdown of hours includes:
- Monday–Friday: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. (Executive Members only)
- Saturday: 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. (Executive Members only, with extended closing hours for all members)
- Sunday: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. (Executive Members only)
For all other members, regular warehouse hours remain unchanged.
Extended Weekend Hours for All Members
As per the USA Today reports, Along with earlier access for Executive Members, Costco also extended weekend hours for everyone. Since July 5, 2025, stores now close at 7 p.m. on Saturdays, one hour later than before.
This expansion reflects Costco’s effort to accommodate rising customer demand, especially during busier weekend shopping days.
Costco Closed on Labor Day
Shoppers should note that despite the new schedule, Costco warehouses remain closed on Labor Day (September 1, 2025). The holiday closure is consistent with Costco’s long-standing policy to give employees time off during certain federal holidays.
What Benefits Do Executive Members Receive?
The Executive Membership tier comes with several advantages beyond early shopping access:
- All Gold Star membership benefits (including warehouse entry, fuel access, and a free household card)
- 2% annual reward on qualified Costco purchases
- Discounts on select Costco services, such as auto insurance and optical services
- Monthly $10 credit for online orders of $150 or more through Costco’s “Same-Day” delivery or Instacart partnership
With the addition of exclusive shopping hours, Executive Membership is being positioned as a more premium option that enhances both savings and convenience.
Why Is Costco Making This Change?
Retail analysts suggest that Costco’s move is aimed at boosting Executive Membership sign-ups. The higher-tier membership, which costs $120 per year compared to the standard $60 Gold Star Membership, represents a major revenue driver for the company.
By offering tangible in-store benefits like early shopping, Costco hopes to differentiate itself from competitors such as Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale, which also provide tiered memberships.
The company is also responding to member feedback. Many shoppers have expressed frustration with crowded aisles during peak hours, and giving Executive Members earlier access may help ease congestion while enhancing customer satisfaction.
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How This Impacts Shoppers
For everyday Costco shoppers, the impact depends on membership level.
- Executive Members now have the clear advantage of earlier access to popular items and less crowded stores.
- Gold Star Members maintain regular access but can still benefit from the later Saturday closing time.
Industry experts note that if this rollout is successful, Costco may consider adding more exclusive perks for Executive Members in the future.
Summary of Costco’s New Schedule
| Day | Executive Member Hours | Regular Member Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Friday | 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. | 10 a.m. – close |
| Saturday | 9 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. (exclusive) | 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. |
| Sunday | 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. | 10 a.m. – close |
Final Takeaway
Costco’s decision to expand Executive Member hours nationwide after Labor Day 2025 marks one of the biggest membership changes in recent years. By offering early access and extended weekend shopping times, the retailer is strengthening its value proposition for higher-tier members while still providing benefits to all customers.
What do you think about Costco’s new membership perks? Do early shopping hours make the upgrade worth it? Share your thoughts in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
