I have been a fan of Costco for years, but lately I have been noticing a distinct downhill trend in the quality, variety and price of their offerings. I know things vary greatly store to store, and I will say that the one closest to me (Yonkers) has never had as good a selection as others in my area, but I really feel like things are declining overall.
For instance, they recently replaced their excellent Kirkland brand super-premium vanilla ice cream ($10 for two half-gallons) with another super premium ice cream from Humboldt Creamery. The new product is very similar, but the price is higher ($13, or a 30% jump). Land o’ Lakes half and half was replaced with an organic product for twice the price. Several cleaning/household products I used to buy there (Scrubbing Bubbles, powdered Cascade, Charmin Ultra Strong) have disappeared from the shelves. Beef is not nearly as dependably good as it used to be. Eggs are only available in size large and are usually MORE expensive than my regular grocery store. And so on.
I have also noticed an increase in the number of pre-prepared products (heat-and-eat entrees, soups, etc.), which are taking shelf space away from actual ingredients or products that require cooking. I don’t normally buy this type of stuff so perhaps my expectations are off, but these products do not seem like a good value (or any more reasonably priced than they would be at a regular supermarket). The actual raw ingredients they do offer are largely being replaced with organic versions, which cost far more than non-organic versions, instead of having both options.
A quick google search turns up quite a few similar complaints, so I guess maybe it’s not just me - curious to know if other HOs are having similar experiences in other parts of the country. Honestly, if the Yonkers store were my only option within driving distance, I would probably give up my membership. Luckily the Port Chester and New Rochelle stores are somewhat better, but given that they are much less convenient, I don’t benefit from the membership nearly as much as I used to. Anyone else reconsidering whether a membership is worth it anymore?