[Fact 1: Vast Variety of Products]
Costco is a veritable treasure trove of diversity. It’s one of the few places where you can buy everything from a diamond ring to a year's supply of toilet paper. This colossal warehouse exemplifies diversity with over 4,000 products on its shelves at any given time. This number may seem large, but it’s actually quite small compared to other retailers like Walmart, which can carry about 50,000 items in a single store!
[Fact 2: The $1.50 Hot Dog and Soda Combo]
Despite continual inflation and ever-rising food costs, the price of Costco's signature hot dog and soda combo has remained $1.50 since it was first introduced in 1985. The founder, Jim Sinegal, once claimed, "I will kill to keep that hot dog at $1.50!" This proves the company’s commitment to delivering quality, affordable food to its members.
[Fact 3: Pillar of the Wine Industry]
Did you know that Costco is one of the world's biggest wine retailers? It ranks as one of the top wine sellers in the world with annual wine sales of about $1.5 billion. Their Kirkland Signature brand also has a remarkably diverse selection of wines produced from different grape varieties and regions around the globe.
[Fact 4: You Can Buy Caskets]
Aside from wholesale goods, Costco also sells caskets and urns from the Universal Casket Company. Available only on their online platform, these funeral essentials are available in various kinds and styles, making Costco your one-stop-shop even for life's end.
[Fact 5: Kirkland Signature Brand>
The name 'Kirkland Signature', Costco's private brand originated from their former headquarters in Kirkland, Washington. This brand was established in 1995 and it accounts for about 20-25% of Costco's total sales today. The Kirkland Signature label stands for high-quality products at a great value.
[Fact 6: No Advertisements>
Unlike other retail giants, Costco has not spent money on traditional advertising strategies. This is part of their plan to maintain low prices for their customers. Their growth predominantly occurs through word of mouth, members' experiences, and the occasional mailing.
[Fact 7: Pharmacy Benefits>
Costco members can enjoy the perks of affordable pharmaceuticals. But what many don't know is that even non-members can benefit from Costco's pharmacy. This allows more people to access Costco's low-cost prescription drugs, promoting health and wellness among different communities.
[Fact 8: The Concrete Floors>
As part of their cost-saving efforts, Costco’s floors are intentionally kept unpainted. Though it may seem like a minor thing, it is part of the major cost-saving approach that educates the customers about where the company’s priorities lie - in the value and not the looks.
[Fact 9: Most Selling Products]
Toilet paper takes the crown as the most selling product at Costco. They sell over one billion rolls annually – which would graphically stretch from Earth to the moon and back over twenty-four times!
[Fact 10: Costco Travel>
Costco isn't just about physical goods, they also have a travel division. Launched in 2000, Costco Travel offers discounted vacation packages and cruises for its members, showing the vast expanse of services that this wholesale giant provides.
[Fact 11: Unpredictable High-End brands products>
Luxury brands have been known to pop up in Costco's aisles, from Prada purses to Tiffany & Co. jewelry. However, these items can disappear as quickly as they appear, keeping the shopping experience unpredictable and exciting.
[Fact 12: Employees Benefits>
Costco is renowned for treating its employees exceptionally well. The average wage for a Costco worker is around $21.00 per hour - almost double the national average for retail workers.
[Fact 13: It’s International>
Costco is not just a U.S. business phenomenon. It has locations in nine countries: U.S., Canada, Mexico, U.K., Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia and Spain, providing their quality service worldwide.
[Fact 14: Record Breaking Sales>
In 2018, Costco surpassed $3 billion in sales in a single week for the first time, showing the massive scale and profitability of this brand.
[Fact 15: Not Always Costco>
When it first started in 1983, the company operated under the name "Price Club." The name "Costco" only came about in 1985, two years after its opening.
[Fact 16: Top Seller of Organic Foods>
Despite its image as a bulk food vendor, Costco is actually one of the largest organic food retailers in the world. This shows the company's commitment to catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers.
[Fact 17: Seeing Eye Dogs>
Costco extends its friendly policies towards pets as well. Trained seeing-eye dogs are allowed in its warehouses, showing respect and understanding for customers with special needs.
[Fact 18: Fastest to $3 Billion>
Costco holds the title for being the first company ever to grow from zero to $3 billion in sales in less than six years. This remarkable achievement demonstrates Costco's popularity and strategic business practices.
[Fact 19: Rotisserie Chickens>
Just like the iconic hot dog deal, Costco's rotisserie chickens are also sold at $4.99, and have remained at that price. Over 60 million were sold in 2017, firmly cementing it as a fan favorite food item.
[Fact 20: Membership Phobia>
Costco's unique membership model can deter some potential shoppers. However, unknown to many, you can shop certain categories online without a membership, and can even shop in-store with a Costco gift card without being a member. This provides great flexibility for customers who may not be ready for a full membership yet.