Louisiana Shoppers Upset Over New Costco Shopping Restrictions

Shopping at Costco makes me feel like a bit of a rule-breaker. I’ve been known to circle back for an extra sample just minutes after grabbing my first one—no disguise needed. And let’s just say I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve used Mom’s Costco card for my own shopping trips.

The days of casually running errands for Grandma and snagging a $1.50 hot dog are coming to an end, though. Costco is stepping up its game to stop non-members from sneaking in. The retailer is now using AI and facial recognition to verify members at the entrance. When you scan your membership card, your photo appears on an iPad for the greeter to check. So, if you’re using Grandma’s card and she’s not there in person, you’re out of luck.

According to USA Today

Any guests must come with a member who has a membership card with them, the note continued. Customers with inactive memberships will be asked to "stop by the membership counter prior to entering the warehouse to shop."

Members are also encouraged to get a photo taken so it can be added to their card. Otherwise, they will need to show a valid photo ID.

It’s almost like trying to get into a swanky nightclub. The gatekeeper at the door scans your card, scrutinizes it for what feels like forever, and then finally gives you a nod if everything checks out.

I get that Costco wants to protect its memberships, but what really bugs me as a non-member is that I used to be able to slip into the Food Court without a card. I’ve enjoyed plenty of $1.50 hot dogs without needing to flash Grandma’s membership. Now, Costco’s cracking down on that too—no membership, no hot dog!