Costco Executive Hours Start June 30: New Access Rules, Pharmacy Exceptions & Extended Saturday Hours
Key Takeaways
- Exclusive early access: Executive members get weekday/Sunday 9-10 AM and Saturday 9-9:30 AM entry starting June 30 .
- Extended Saturday hours: All members can shop until 7 PM on Saturdays .
- New $10 monthly credit: For Executive members on same-day Instacart orders over $150 .
- Grace period: Gold Star/Business members retain 9 AM access at select locations through August 31 .
- Employee impact: Staff express concerns about workload and preparation time .
Costco’s New Executive Hours Explained
Starting Monday, June 30, 2025, Costco rolled out earlier shopping times for Executive members—a perk not seen since 2017. These members now get exclusive access 30–60 minutes before regular hours: 9–10 AM Sunday–Friday, and 9–9:30 AM on Saturdays. After these windows, all members can enter (10 AM weekdays/Sundays; 9:30 AM Saturdays). For warehouses that already opened at 9 AM, only Executive members retain that access now. Gold Star and Business members at these locations have a grace period through August 31, as some shoppers spotted on in-store signs .
Table: Costco’s Updated Hours Breakdown
Why Costco Revived Early Access
Costco explicitly stated this rewards Executive members, who drive 70% of sales despite making up under half the membership base. The move mirrors Sam’s Club’s Plus member early access and aims to convert more Gold Star holders to the pricier tier. Internal emails called Executive members "our most loyal" and emphasized "rewarding their commitment" .
Executive Membership Costs and Perks
The Executive tier costs $130/year—double the $65 Gold Star fee—after a $10 increase in September 2024. Beyond early hours, benefits include:
- A 2% annual reward on eligible purchases (capped at $1,250) .
- Extra savings on Costco services like auto, pet insurance, and optometry .
- The new $10 monthly credit for Instacart/same-day orders over $150 .
Table: Membership Tier Comparison
Extended Saturday Hours for All Members
Besides early access, all Costco warehouses now close at 7 PM on Saturdays—an hour later than before. Previously, Saturday hours ended at 6 PM in most regions. This gives more flexibility for weekend shoppers .
Department-Specific Hour Changes
Most warehouse sections—including the food court—follow the new Executive hours. Pharmacies operate during early access except on Sundays when they remain closed. Tire centers, optical departments, and hearing aid offices may vary by location, so calling ahead is wise .
Employee Concerns About the Change
Workers worry compressed prep time will strain operations. One front-end manager called it an "absolute nightmare," noting staff must now achieve the same stocking/cleaning tasks in less morning time. Reddit threads revealed some warehouses shifted restocking to overnight shifts but didn’t add staff. Employees cited smaller payroll budgets than last year, forcing existing teams to "do more with less" .
How to Maximize the New Benefits
- For Executive members: Use early hours for high-demand items (like eggs or limited-edition products) to beat crowds. Track Instacart credits monthly—they expire if unused.
- For Gold Star members: Test early access before August 31 if your location allows. Consider upgrading if you spend >$3,000/year—the 2% reward typically offsets the $65 fee difference .
- All members: Saturday evenings post-6 PM may be less crowded due to the extended closure .
Broader Context: Costco’s Recent Changes
This follows other 2025 updates:
- Gas stations now operate until 10 PM .
- Membership fees increased $5 (Gold Star) and $10 (Executive) in late 2024 .
- Same-day delivery expanded via Instacart partnerships .
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Costco food courts open early for Executive members?
Yep, food courts follow the new Executive hours starting at 9 AM daily, except Sundays when they open at 10 AM for everyone .
Can Business members access early hours?
Only Executive members get early entry. Business members—unless they’re also Executive—must wait for regular hours. Some locations offer a grace period through August though .
Is the $10 Instacart credit automatic?
Executive members get it monthly for orders over $150 via sameday.costco.com or Costco’s Instacart page. Credits expire monthly and don’t roll over .
Why did Costco bring this back after stopping in 2017?
They’re likely rewarding high-value members to retain them and convert others. Executive members drive most sales, so incentivizing this tier boosts revenue .
Do employees get paid more for earlier shifts?
Search results don’t mention extra pay. Staff report shifted schedules and workload concerns without added compensation .