Costco is planning to eliminate its permanent book section from numerous stores, a decision that will affect hundreds of locations. Additionally, the wholesale retailer is discussing several other modifications that may be implemented in 2025. We’ve compiled a list of five anticipated changes that customers can prepare for in the upcoming year. This includes replacing food court tables with standing tables, removing certain muffin flavors and more.
5 Changes To Costco Stores Customers Can Anticipate In 2025
1. Removing Book Tables
Starting January 2025, Costco's iconic book tables will disappear from the majority of its stores, as reported by Yahoo Finance and Fox Business. According to Yahoo Finance, 500 out of Costco's 600 stores will no longer feature book sections.
Instead of being available throughout the year, books will now only appear in Costco locations during the holiday season, from September to December, as noted by the New York Times in June.
2. Replacing Food Court Tables With Standing Tables
Costco customers and Reddit users have observed that many of the retailer’s food court tables at some locations are being swapped out for standing ones, as noted by Delish. One user in a buzzing Reddit thread mentioned that the Costco in Visalia, California, removed several of the usual tables to install five standing tables instead.
On November 12th, the Costco member wrote: “They have five standing tables and about a dozen of the regular tables, they did get rid of some of the regular tables to make room for these. I also don’t know how long the tables have been out, It’s been a while since I’ve visited Costco.”
Others joined the online discussion, sharing that their nearby Costco stores have also begun using standing tables in the food court. Many shoppers are not too happy about the prospect of eating their Kirkland hot dog combo or pizza while on their feet.
3. Cutting Beloved Muffin Flavors
Costco might be updating its muffin selection, if it hasn't already. A Reddit discussion about Costco news indicated that the Washington-based retailer is tweaking its bakery offerings, including its well-loved muffins. Earlier this year, Costco launched lemon raspberry and butter pecan muffins, available in packs of eight and smaller in size compared to their predecessors. These new flavors seem to be permanent, Fox News reports, likely replacing some older varieties.
Reddit users with many writing 'no!' when noticing their preferred flavors were dwindling) noted the introduction of two more flavors: triple chocolate and blueberries and cream, joining lemon raspberry and butter pecan. These new options are set to replace the banana nut, apple crumb, vanilla chocolate chunk, and almond poppyseed muffins. Additionally, the double chocolate muffin appears to be making way for the triple chocolate version.
4. Store Entry Rules Are Being Updated
As a Costco member, you’re aware that staff will likely check your membership card during your visit. Despite tips on how to shop there without a membership, it's always required. Sharing memberships was technically against the rules, but not always strictly enforced. However, since last year, Costco has been tightening this policy, with stricter enforcement expected by 2025.
Previously, you could enter by showing your card to an employee at the entrance. This year, Costco began testing a new system at some locations, requiring cards to be scanned and verified. If your card lacked a photo, you had to show a government-issued ID. This policy ensures only members benefit from shopping at Costco. According to El Adelantado, if your local Costco hasn’t implemented this yet, it likely will soon. Be ready to scan your card or show your ID on your next visit.
5. New Mobile App Feature
For those curious about whether their local Costco carries a specific item, the need to call or visit in person might soon be a thing of the past, Fox News notes. This is because Costco has quietly introduced a "search warehouse inventory" feature on its mobile app for select customers. Currently in Beta testing, this tool can be found by tapping "warehouse" at the bottom of the screen, positioned between "account" and "cart."
The chosen store will display its hours, gas prices, and include a search bar. By clicking the search bar, customers can check the warehouse inventory by entering the product name or description. Reports indicate that this feature was first made available to some users back in June.
