Costco Shoppers Sustain Spending Amid Broader Cutbacks

Costco has continued to attract spending even as many consumers pull back, with members buying both everyday goods and discretionary items such as housewares, personal-care products and small appliances. Analysts say Costco’s mix of perceived value and a treasure-hunt-style in-store experience encourages shoppers to spend more per visit and buy more nonfood merchandise than shoppers at Sam’s Club, despite Sam’s strengths in technology and online shopping. But Costco’s bulk format does not guarantee the lowest price: shoppers may save by buying fresh produce in smaller quantities elsewhere and comparing prices on items such as flowers.