Countering anti-Costco sentiments: Part 2

Hopefully you enjoyed the first part of this two-part series. Here is the second batch of arguments and counterarguments regarding purchasing a Costco membership:

7. I refuse to even look at clothing at a store without dressing rooms

It is true. Costco does not have dressing rooms. Consistent with Costco’s approach to creating an efficient, inexpensive shopping experience, they do not spend the money on dressing rooms or employees to help with trying on clothing. However, as I have written about in the past, Costco has an excellent return policy (Returning at Costco). Therefore, as long as you don’t mind spending a few extra minutes in the return line (hey, you can browse the coupon catalog while you are there…or better yet, debate whether to order the hot dog or the frozen yogurt at the food court), it is easy to purchase clothing and then return if you decide not to keep the items.

8. Why would I want to shop in such an unpleasant (dirty, industrial) place?

Costco does not provide a glamorous shopping experience. It is large, with no decorations, cement floors, items piled high in the rows, boxes everywhere, and often several birds flying around. So, if someone wants to shop in a pretty boutique, Costco is not the place. However, I find Costco a fun place to shop because the merchandise is constantly changing (although I have to admit that I get frustrated when my favorite items are discontinued), thereby enabling me to frequently peruse the aisles for new goods, there are samples being offered, and often special discounts on items.

9. I already shop at big, less expensive stores like WalMart and Target.

No, no, no! Costco is very different from these stores. Yes, WalMart and Target are huge and less expensive than many other stores. However, Costco sells different (e.g., diamonds, kayaks) and higher quality (e.g., meat) items than either of the former stores. In addition, these items are sold at comparatively lower prices. Costco also has a much better guarantee policy, so there is less risk when purchasing an expensive item.

10. There really isn’t anyone to help with my questions

Although Costco’s employees are typically very friendly and efficient, it is true that Costco does not hire additional people to stand in the store aiding customers. If you have a specific question in a certain part of the store (e.g., bakery), they will be happy to try to help, but in general, the employees stick to their tasks. For example, they might not know the details of different brands of TVs, which you would expect in a store like Best Buy. Of course, having fewer employees helps enable Costco to keep the costs down. If an individual requires a lot of assistance while shopping, Costco probably is not the place. But for people who do not need a lot of assistance, are willing to look around the store to find products, and are willing to return items if they are not desired after being purchased. Finally, Costco has good online customer service. I have emailed the company several times to inquire about particular items and have always received prompt, helpful responses.

11. Costco only accepts one credit card

As many know, Costco recently decided to switch their pairing with American Express to Visa. This switch enables more people to use credit cards at the store, because more people use Visa. In addition, Costco does accept cash and checks.

12. Costco does not accept coupons

I have written about my love of and shameless use of coupons in the past (Non-Costco coupons). Costco does not take manufacturer’s coupons but do take their own. In addition, many of their prices are even lower than that of other stores, even after using coupons. Finally, I find that few people really use coupons…sad but true.

Any other common reasons people have for not shopping at Costco?  What would you say to try to “convince them” to join the Costco crowd?