With the cost of living crisis starting to stretch many people's finances to the limit, more and more shoppers are now wondering if they could make their money go further by shopping in bulk at wholesalers such as Costco. Buying in bulk is seen as a simple way of making valuable savings.
There are currently 29 Costco warehouses dotted across the UK, with other well-known 'cash and carry' wholesalers including Booker and Macro. Whether it's 1,100 teabags for just £11, a jumbo pack of toilet rolls for a few quid or a 1.5 litre bottle of Prosecco for £20 - there's no doubt savings are to be made at Costco. The store which was the subject of Channel 5 show 'Costco - Is It Really Worth It?' this evening (8pm, Wednesday June 8).
The problem for anyone looking to take advantage of the various bargains on offer, however, is the business is actually what consumer experts on the show described as being "a mysterious, very private club". It means not just anyone can saunter into their nearest Costco warehouse.
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In fact, membership to the private club is normally reserved for traders and businesses such as small grocery stores and corner shops and restaurants and takeaways. People working, or have retired from certain professions can also become members of Costco.
These include public sector workers such as NHS doctors, emergency services and local government. For as little as £15 you can shop online, but only members can visit the warehouses themselves. There is also an executive membership available for £74.40 for ordinary shoppers, which includes a 2 per cent cashback on many purchases.
On the surface, that would seem a little frustrating for everyday bargain hunters and struggling families. But Channel 5 revealed one way that anyone can get around the normal membership criteria and shop 'til they drop.
Channel 5 sought to confirm or dispel rumours circulating that people with either AA or RAC breakdown cover can also become fully-fledged Costco members for the regular fee of £33.60. There are other rumours that National Trust membership, and carrying an American Express credit can also get you into the club.
The show's producers rang up one store inquiring about membership. They were told by a Costco customer advisor that all of the above was true. This was later confirmed by three other Costco stores, however, the remaining 25 warehouses did not respond.
The revelation means that anyone wanting to try and grab a bargain at the wholesaler could save themselves a larger membership fee through benefits they already owed. That's a great way to save some money and grab a bargain on your shop.
