Costco Wholesale Corporation operates a global chain of membership-only warehouse clubs that sell a wide array of merchandise in bulk at discounted prices. The company’s product mix includes groceries, fresh and frozen food, household goods, electronics, apparel, and seasonal items, augmented by its prominent private-label brand, Kirkland Signature. Costco’s business model centers on annual membership fees and high-volume, low-margin sales, designed to drive repeat purchasing and strong customer loyalty among both consumers and small-business buyers.
Beyond merchandise, Costco provides a range of ancillary services that complement its warehouses, including gasoline stations, pharmacy and optical services, hearing aid centers, photo services, and travel and insurance products. The company also operates e-commerce platforms and offers business delivery and fulfillment options for commercial customers. These services broaden revenue streams and enhance the value proposition of membership by addressing everyday needs in a one-stop format.
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Issaquah, Washington, Costco traces its roots to the warehouse club concept popularized in the late 20th century. The company was co-founded by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman, and it has grown from its early U.S. operations into an international retailer with membership warehouses across North America and multiple markets in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Craig Jelinek succeeded James Sinegal as chief executive officer in 2012, following the company’s expansion into a globally recognized retail brand. Costco’s combination of membership-driven revenue, private-label offerings, and diversified in-store services has made it a distinctive participant in the global retail landscape.