Can the Costco Experience Keep up with Changing Technology?
-By Griffin Addison | [email protected]
Some people love waking up early Saturday or Sunday morning to make the trip to Costco for groceries. Of course leaving just a few minutes late could drastically decrease the chances of getting a parking spot near the building, given how mobbed Costco normally is.
The Costco experience is loved by some and dreaded by others. Even the long lineups at the Costco gas station make people rethink saving a few dollars in order to get their time back. All in all, Costco has its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Low prices
- Free samples
- Good selection
Cons:
- Long lineups
- Too much congestion
- Only large packages
This is a fair trade off for most people's weekly routine. But overtime, the experience could wear on. What if there was an experience that kept all of the pros, but got rid of the cons? How fast would the loyal people of the Costco club, dump their memberships and switch to a service that not only offers low prices, but saves them a few frustrating hours each week of waiting in line and sifting through swarms of people.
The greatest thing Costco has going for it to defend itself against the wrath of changing technology is the free food samples which require a physical presence. Low prices, no lineups, various selection and sizes can and will be available through online services such as the quickly moving Amazon.com. If you forget to buy something at Costco, running in and back out could set you back 15, 20 minutes on its own. On the other hand, food delivery within 2 hours could save precious time and energy. Costco seems to be immune right now, but with ultra fast delivery on its way, it's sure to be a game changer.