Costco's 'strict' new entry system rules divide shoppers
A viral video has shown Costco's strict new entry system, with shoppers needing to show their card and have their photo match up in order to access the store.
There's not many places like Costco.
The American multinational corporation, known for its membership-only big-box warehouse club retail stores, is a sight to behold. In 2021, it was dubbed the world's third-largest retailer.
You can find everything there – from prime beef to organic foods, rotisserie chicken and wine. However, gaining entry into the superstore isn't as straightforward as you might think, as a recent viral video has demonstrated.
The video, which has taken TikTok by storm, reveals the stringent security measures in place at Costco. The clip, shared by a user named neiduuuh, shows the new entry system where your card and picture appear on a screen.
It's believed the measures are in place to help reduce crowds in the supermarket – but not everyone is happy about it.
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If the person trying to enter doesn't match the picture, they're denied entry, regardless of their reason for shopping.The video has garnered over a million likes since it was posted, with viewers expressing mixed feelings about the strict security measure.
One viewer commented: "Sorry, but I kind of love this. My Costo gets so packed you can't even move."
Another added: "This is going to lessen crowds and people control who comes in. You can always add a member for free if you're helping gran."
One individual expressed understanding, but highlighted a personal dilemma, saying: "I see both sides to this, however my grandma is 85 and she just can't go any more. She used to send me or my mum, but instead she just pays for a membership, and puts it in my mum's name now."
Meanwhile, another was frustrated with the store's busy atmosphere, venting: "Costo is so overcrowded now - never enjoyable. Bumping carts at every turn - doesn't matter what time or day you go - everyone's a member now. These checks don't make a hoot."
A different user shared their perspective on the policy, writing: "I get the annoyance of this, but in what world do you go to a members only place without a membership? Gyms are the same way."
Commenters also pointed out that the system isn't yet in place everywhere, though many mentioned that UK stores have been following this practice for some time.
While some are against the measures, the consensus appeared to be in support of the new high-tech systems on the whole.
