Why no Alcohol Samples in US Costco Stores?

A few months ago, I wrote about the Costco stores (and experiences shopping at them) in other countries (see International series). Most of the posts focused on the food items offered, the food courts, and how these are similar to or different from the Costco stores in the United States. I came across an article focused on an advantage of being a Costco member in other countries…the opportunity to sample alcohol in the store.

Obviously, samples are a trademark of Costco and one about which I have written several times (Samples return to Costco!); (A day in the life of a “Sample Giver” ); (What kind of “sampler” are you?) However, I actually never even thought about whether Costco offers samples of alcohol. Had I thought about it, I would have guessed that they do in the alcohol section (a section that I rarely visit)…I would have been wrong. US Costco stores do not provide samples of alcohol.

As a non-drinker (and in general a non- sampler), I don’t care that I cannot get alcohol sales at Costco . Furthermore, given how small samples are, I find it hard to imagine that the lack of alcohol samples is a big problem for most, unless it is critical in deciding whether or not to buy the item. However, I figured it was worth sharing the information as I actually learned other information about sales of alcohol. (Again, I don’t buy it but I am curious about almost everything).

Why Costco does not provide samples of alcohol in the United States 

According to the article, location determines laws regarding alcohol sales. Therefore, the laws are not consistent. Whereas some states permit the sale of all varieties of liquor, others are restricted to beer and wine (and other less strong versions of alcohol). Obviously, Costco needs to comply with these laws. Therefore, in states where it is not allowed to be sold, it certainly wouldn’t offer samples. For example, the author discusses Pennsylvania, where Costco does not sell any alcohol due to the strict laws. However, ironically, no permit is required for alcohol samples. Nevertheless, because Costco cannot sell the items, they will not bother sampling them 

A semi-reverse scenario arises in other states. In addition to location determining if a store can sell alcohol (and which varieties), it also determines whether or not the store can distribute free samples. Some states require a permit (which Costco does not have). Given the differences across states, it may be easier for Costco to not give samples anywhere in the country rather than navigate the differences in permit requirements.

To add to the complications, even when Costco can sell alcohol, there are different rules regarding who can purchase it. Whereas some states permit both members and nonmembers to purchase alcohol, membership is required in other states. Then, even in states where nonmembers can buy alcohol, they may only be able to buy certain types of alcohol (starting to seem like a chart is needed to follow the rules!)

The article points out that location may not be the only factor determining Costco’s decision not to sample alcohol. The company may fear legal complications if a minor were to obtain a sample. It would be difficult to monitor age and, as the article points out, because the sample givers are not actually Costco employees, it is an even more challenging situation.

Did you notice that Costco stores in the US don’t sample alcohol? Do you think it makes sense, given the complicated regulations regarding selling alcohol? Are you surprised it is common practice in Costco stores in other countries?