Costco Is Ending This Convenient Perk

Costco just announced that a special hour it started offering during the early stages of the pandemic for those who needed to shop without crowds is ending next month.

In the Summer of 2020, Costco announced that the special hour it created for first responders, seniors, those with disabilities, and those who are immunocompromised to shop in the warehouse without other crowds would switch to two days a week from five, but reversed the decision a few weeks later as COVID-19 cases rose. A year later in July, the chain announced it was getting rid of the perk altogether, only to backtrack once again later in the month for the same reason as before.

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In an update to its COVID-19 safety website, the company says that as of April 18, the hour will no longer be available. Until then, members who fit the criteria can shop from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at warehouses, with a few exceptions for some in California, Hawaii, and New York. (To see the full list, click here.)

The company says that "Members who do not wish to shop during regular hours are welcome to visit Costco.com for all their shopping needs."

Just a few weeks ago another update got rid of the mask requirement in warehouses, and Costco now follows local mask regulations. Other rules still in place include temporary item limits on select items, as well as a limited menu and seating in food courts.

This isn't the only change the warehouse chain is making right now. Several fan-favorite restaurant dishes are being added to a location in your neighborhood.