00:00If you love Costco, you're about to see the store in a whole new way.
00:04Imagine walking past the long checkout lines,
00:07grabbing fresh deals before anyone else even sets foot inside,
00:10and all for a few extra dollars a year.
00:13That's right, Costco just rolled out VIP early shopping hours for executive members nationwide,
00:20and it could completely change how you shop.
00:23Stay tuned, because by the end of this video,
00:25you'll know exactly how to save money, skip the crowds, and even make the $65 extra membership fee pay for itself.
00:33Costco's VIP early hours were a soft launch in June 2025,
00:37but now all 8 and 82 U.S. stores are participating.
00:42Here's how it works.
00:44Weekdays, executive members shop 9 to 10 a.m.
00:48Saturdays, 9 to 9.30 a.m.
00:51Sundays, 9 to 10 a.m.
00:52All members also get an extra Saturday hour, with stores now closing at 7 p.m.
00:59In other words, executive members get the store to themselves before the crowds arrive,
01:04giving them first access to limited stock items like baked goods, electronics, or fresh produce.
01:11Only executive members get VIP access.
01:14Membership fees.
01:15Executive, $130 a year, includes 2% rewards, VIP hours.
01:21Gold star, business, $65 a year.
01:25So the real question, is that $65 extra worth it?
01:29For anyone who shops Costco frequently or early, the answer might surprise you.
01:34Costco isn't doing this just to be nice.
01:37Crowd control.
01:38VIP hours spread traffic out and keep stores calmer.
01:42Loyalty perks.
01:43Executive members are paying double.
01:45They deserve benefits.
01:47Competition.
01:48Amazon and Walmart offer convenience.
01:50Costco now gives exclusivity.
01:52Customer expectations.
01:54People love quiet shopping.
01:56COVID habits stuck.
01:57Basically, it's a smart business move that also feels like a gift for VIPs.
02:02Here's how to get the most out of your hour.
02:05Plan your route.
02:06Grab meats, electronics, or baked goods first.
02:09Use the Costco app.
02:11Check inventory.
02:12Add items to your list.
02:13Weekday mornings are gold.
02:15Weekends can still be a little busy.
02:17Know the deals.
02:18Executive members also get 2% back.
02:21That can offset membership cost.
02:23Pro tip.
02:24If you shop at least twice a month, the extra fee often pays for itself in time saved and rewards.
02:30Even non-executive members benefit.
02:33Stores are less crowded overall.
02:35And Saturday closing times are extended to 7pm.
02:39For executive members, it's a game changer.
02:43Early access to popular products.
02:45Shorter lines and less stress.
02:47For casual shoppers, it may be an incentive to upgrade.
02:50This isn't just a shopping story.
02:52It's about value, strategy, and getting more out of your money.
02:56Think about it.
02:57One small change in membership policy can change your weekly routine, save hours in line, and even help you snag items that sell out fast.
03:06So, what do you think?
03:08Will you upgrade to executive membership for VIP hours or stick with the standard plan?
03:12Comment below.
03:13Let me know.
03:14And don't forget to follow me for more insider tips, breaking consumer news, and smart ways to shop smarter every week.
03:21Because in 2925, saving time and money isn't just smart, it's essential.
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