Gabrielle Olya
·2 min read
Costco was one of the companies at the forefront of raising their minimum wage to $15 (it's now $16), but the pay is only one of the job perks that come along with working at the warehouse club.
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Here's a look at some of the incredible benefits enjoyed by Costco employees.
Multiple Yearly Bonuses
Although this is a perk you only get after working for the company for a few years, it's a good one. According to Costco's website, "we provide twice-yearly Extra Checks (bonuses) for long-tenured hourly employees."
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Free Executive Membership
Costco employees get free membership cards for themselves and their friends and family.
"We get four free membership cards (including mine) with 2% cash back annually," one long-time Costo cashier wrote on Quora. "[These] cards can be given to any family members or any friend of your choice. And if you work for Costco for more [than] 25 years [and retire, you get] a lifetime membership card."
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First Dibs on Hot-Ticket Items
Employees get to test out new products before they hit shelves and often buy up hot-ticket items as soon as they are available.
"It's frequently the case that we're out of stock of something because we've bought them all," a Costco employee in Ohio told Fox Business.
First Dibs on Sale Items
Employees also get access to sales before shoppers do.
"We see stuff go on clearance before you do, and if it's a good deal, we'll snatch them up," the Ohio employee told Fox Business.
Free Thanksgiving Turkey
Multiple employees confirmed on Reddit that American Costco workers all receive a voucher for a free turkey every Thanksgiving. Costco donates the turkeys that employees choose not to take home.
Exclusive Employee Shopping Hours
Perhaps the biggest downside to shopping at Costco is the super long checkout lines -- but employees get to avoid these.
"You can shop after hours, and a lot of employees do that," a Costco employee in Washington State told Mental Floss.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Incredible Perks of Being a Costco Employee
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of labor practices and company benefits, it's evident that Costco is not just a retail giant but also a standout employer with a commitment to employee welfare. My knowledge encompasses various aspects of employment conditions and corporate practices, allowing me to provide insights into the perks highlighted in the article by Gabrielle Olya on August 4, 2023.
First and foremost, Costco's proactive approach to fair wages is noteworthy. Having been at the forefront of the movement to increase the minimum wage, Costco now pays its employees a minimum of $16 per hour, surpassing the $15 benchmark. This salary adjustment reflects Costco's dedication to providing a livable wage for its workforce, aligning with contemporary labor standards and trends.
The concept of multiple yearly bonuses for long-tenured hourly employees is a testament to Costco's commitment to recognizing and rewarding employee loyalty. This evidence of periodic financial appreciation strengthens the company's reputation as an employer that values and invests in its workforce over the long term.
Furthermore, the provision of a free executive membership for employees and their friends and family showcases Costco's commitment to employee benefits beyond just monetary compensation. The inclusion of a 2% cash back annually on these membership cards adds a financial incentive, fostering a culture of shared benefits among Costco employees.
The insider information about employees having first dibs on hot-ticket and sale items underscores Costco's unique approach to staff perks. By allowing employees to test and purchase new products before they hit the shelves or become available to the general public, Costco not only incentivizes its workforce but also ensures that its employees are well-versed in the products they sell.
The practice of providing a voucher for a free Thanksgiving turkey to all American Costco workers is a heartwarming example of how Costco extends its appreciation beyond the workplace. This gesture not only reflects a sense of corporate responsibility but also contributes to fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
Lastly, the exclusive employee shopping hours address a common customer concern—long checkout lines. By allowing employees to shop after hours, Costco demonstrates its understanding of the challenges its workforce faces and offers a practical solution that benefits both employees and the company.
In conclusion, the perks outlined in the article highlight Costco's commitment to employee satisfaction, recognition, and well-being, making it an exemplary model for other companies to emulate in terms of providing a positive and rewarding work environment.
