Costco customers may see heightened security during their next visit to the retailer as the company implements stricter policies to ensure nonmembers don’t get in.
According to an announcement this week, Costco customers will have to scan their membership cards before entering. The company also encouraged customers to carry photo ID when entering its stores.
“Over the coming months, membership scanning devices will be used at the entrance door of your local warehouse. Once deployed, prior to entering, all members must scan their physical or digital membership card by placing the barcode or QR code against the scanner,” the company wrote in a statement.
And all guests must be accompanied by a valid Costco member to enter.
Earlier this year, Costco began rolling out increased security measures at certain stores, where customers had to scan their Costco membership cards at the front entrance. Members were also required to show their membership card and photo ID before using the self-checkout scanners.
The increased security measures are likely a way for Costco to reduce revenue loss. Most of Costco’s profits come from its membership fees. Last month, the retailer announced it would raise its annual membership fees from $60 to $65, the first increase in nearly eight years.
• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.
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