(WJW) — Costco stores may see fewer customers in the mornings as a new policy for executive members takes effect this month.

Starting in September, Costco locations will enforce a new policy allowing executive members to shop one hour earlier than other members, opening at 9 a.m. instead of 10 a.m., according to FOX News.

Costco stores are closed on Labor Day – Sept. 1, 2025 – so the new policy will take effect Tuesday, Sept. 2.

Costco initially informed its members about the early opening hours for executive members via email on June 11. The policy has been in effect since then, but many locations have not strictly enforced it.

FOX, citing a report from business outlet “The Street,” reports that the deadline for implementing the new policy was Aug. 31. From September onwards, non-executive members attempting to shop before 10 a.m. may be denied entry.

With the enforcement of this policy, executive members will enjoy exclusive early access to Costco stores, potentially reducing morning congestion for other shoppers.

EARLY EXECUTIVE MEMBERSHIP SHOPPING HOURS:

• Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
• Sunday: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Executive members pay $130 annually versus Gold Star members who pay $65 annually.

Additionally, Executive members receive additional perks in exchange for their higher membership fee, including 2% off most purchases and extra discounts on travel, auto or insurance services.

Click HERE to find a Costco store near you.

All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by WJW. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by WJW staff before being published.