Costco in Australia (International Series #4)

Continuing the posts about visits to Costco stores in other countries ((Costco in Canada (International Series #1)); (Costco in South Korea (International Series #2)); (Costco in Iceland (International Series #3)), here are some findings from this author’s visit to one of the 15 Costcos in Australia. (Although the visitor was interviewed vs writing the article, I am going to refer to him as “the author” for smoothness of writing this post.) I combined some individual notes from the original article (e.g., all food court observations into one) for organization, a shorter list, and each item containing more substance. 

1. Food Court Differences

The author noted several differences in the food court in Australia. First, it was outside. He mentions that, although some United States (e.g., Southern CA) stores may have outdoor food courts, this was his first experience with one. Second, only credit cards (no cash) can be used at the food court. Third, due to currency differences, the items cost 25% less in American dollars. Fourth, there were different offerings, including mango smoothies, taro tea, chicken burgers, and Korean wings. 

Even though I do not eat at them, I like the idea of an outdoor food court. I remember enjoying eating at outdoor restaurants and thinking it would be a much nicer atmosphere (even for a quick meal or snack) than right be the exit of the store. For those who go there for lunch (Out for lunch…at Costco?), being outside would also be a nice break from working inside. It is somewhat surprising that cash is not accepted. However, perhaps they do not want to take the time to deal with money and change. The author did not mention if the standard United States food court items were offered. From the items he did mention, it seems like a relatively strong Asian influence.

2. Even Larger Items

According to the article, some of the items sold are in even larger quantities (e.g., barrels of vegetable oil; container of 1,000 lollipops; package of 50 chicken breasts) than in the United States. 

Obviously Costco is known for selling items in bulk. However, these examples seem ridiculous!

3. Unique Kit Kat Flavors

The Costco in Australia sold unusual flavors of Kit Kats (e.g., tiramisu; strawberry cheesecake; creme brûlée).

I actually don’t like Kit Kats and have never looked for them in Costco. I imagine they may be sold in either the variety candy bars packs or the miniature mixes sold for Halloween. However, that would be the original variety. Unlike Reese’s peanut butter cups and M and Ms, in which I’ve tried different varieties (e.g., dark chocolate), I have not tried the different flavors of Kit Kats that are increasingly available in the US. However, I know from listening to food podcasts and reading food blogs, that there is a wide variety sold in other countries, especially in Asian countries (e.g., Japan). 

4. Familiar Electronicsand Appliances 

The author noted HP and Dell laptops, items made by Whirlpool and Samsung, and A Tiger rice cooker.

I am not surprised that many items would be sold across the world.

5. More Products for Commercial Customers

Apparently the Costco in Australia sold business-oriented products, such as contractors’ tools, an “Open” sign, and a Square credit card terminal.

I don’t know why this would be the case, unless perhaps there are fewer stores in the area in which to buy these items, making it worthwhile for Costco to sell them. 

6. Unique Bakery Items

The author commented on bakery items not sold in the US, including chocolate lamingtons (sponge cake covered with chocolate and coconut; cheesecake with lemon passion fruit topping (vs strawberries)).

As I have mentioned in other posts in this international series, is not surprising that bakery items would differ to reflect the foods eaten in that country (Costco in South Korea (International Series #2); (Costco in Iceland (International Series #3)).

7. Huge Meat Department

The article mentions the large meat department with both local meats, some of which were not pre-cut (e.g., pork belly) and meat from other countries (e.g., Japanese Wagyu strip loin). 

I don’t eat the nonkosher meat but it seems that these departments are an important focus by those visiting Costco in other countries. 

8. Australian Ginger Beer

The Costco sold Australian ginger beer (Bundaberg), that is also sold in some US Costco stores. 

I actually would be more surprised if no Australian alcohol was NOT sold in Australia.

9. American Potato Chips

Apparently the potato chips sold (Smith’s) are from a US company.

I don’t find it surprising that an item so common in the United States would have been made here, especially given how many foods now are made by a central company with local distribution.

10. Similar Clothes Sold

The author noted that the clothes were pretty similar to those sold in the US (e.g., Nike; Adidas; Calvin Klein).

Again, not a surprise.

11. Coffins on Display

The author mentioned that, despite knowing that Costco sold coffins, he had never seen them displayed.

I think it is funny that he commented on the coffins. I have considered (and may still) writing a post about the weirdest items sold at Costco. The three-pack of coffins would definitely make this list. I am surprised that the store would display them, given how much space they take up 

What do you think of this list of observations of the Australian Costco? Have you visited one of the Costcos in Australia?