Veteran Costco shoppers are familiar with the limited-run vendor roadshows for high-end (but heavily discounted) items like Vitamix or Traeger grills that liven up Costco warehouses, particularly on weekends. The “surprise treasure” nature of these offerings flesh out the private label Kirkland Signature brand of products that draw shoppers in regularly. But did you know that Costco is employing a similar strategy in an out-of-the-way online portal of its website?
It’s called Costco Next. Here's what you need to know.
What is Costco Next?
Costco Next showcases a selection of limited products from some of Costco’s "most trusted suppliers." They’re mostly in the home goods, tech, fashion and outdoors realms — a hodgepodge of retailers you might know and some you probably don’t. While using Costco next, you'll be transferred to one of Costco's suppliers’ sites where you can purchase products directly, but still enjoy special discounts and deals. The supplier is responsible for shipping, providing customer service and handling returns. The service is only available for Costco members.
To let the warehouse giant explain it, “This innovative approach helps us achieve our goal of bringing a broader selection of goods to our members while increasing the value of the Costco membership.” That’s a smart play, considering Costco just raised its annual membership fees for the first time in seven years.
But Costco Next isn’t new. It’s been around since 2017. Lately, however, Costco has been adding more brands to the limited-run site. And other warehouse club chains, BJ’s Wholesale Club and Sam’s Club, don’t appear to have an equivalent of what Costco is doing online with Costco Next.
So, what are the deals? There are currently 83 brands online in the Costco Next universe. Some are familiar: Mikasa dinnerware, Dearfoams slippers and Thomas Kinkade Studios fine art. You’ll also find Artika lighting products, Baggallini accessories, Bench activewear, Cangshan handcrafted cutlery, Briggs & Riley luggage and Golden Arowana flooring, among others.
Purchases at the supplier do not qualify for Costco Executive benefits and are not included in the 2% reward calculation.
How Do I Use Costco Next?
You can access Costco Next by going to CostcoNext.com. You can also find the link nested at the top left of the Costco home page. Once you get to the Costco Next page, you'll be able to scroll down and browse Costco's supplier brands. You can also sort brands by clicking on the "Brands by Name" or "Shop by Category" links at the top of the page.
When you click on a brand, say Body Glove, you'll need to sign in with your Costco membership information before you'll be able to shop. The page will ask for your first and last name and your Costco membership number. Then hit "Visit Body Glove." You’ll be taken to Costco.bodyglovewatersports.com to buy from the provider at Costco prices. For example, a 7.5 ft Soft Top Surfboard is selling for just $169.99. But as with all online deals, do a little searching around before purchasing so you're actually getting the best price available.
And be careful about how prices display when in the Costco Next portals. Some brands will show the Costco price upfront. But others show a higher list price and tell shoppers the Costco member discount will show up at checkout.
