Starting soon, all Costco stores in Mississauga and across Ontario will require customers to scan their membership cards at the entrance. This new measure is being implemented across Canada and the United States as Costco ramps up efforts to ensure that only members can access the benefits of the warehouse retailer.
To enter the store, guests must also be accompanied by a valid member, according to an announcement on Costco’s website.
The retailer is installing membership scanning devices at the entrances of all its warehouses, and members will need to scan either their physical or digital membership cards by placing the barcode or QR code against the scanner.
For those without a photo on their membership card, Costco is now requiring customers to show valid photo ID. The retailer encourages members to update their membership cards with a photo at the membership counter.
The move follows a successful pilot program in July and comes as Costco prepares to increase its annual membership fees by $5 in both the U.S. and Canada starting September 1, 2024. The new annual fee will be $65.
Costco will have attendants at the door to assist customers with any questions or concerns and to help those whose memberships may be inactive or expired.