If you don’t yet have a Costco membership and you want one – you may want to get on that before the membership fees increase. Costco has announced that as of September 1st, 2024, its membership fees will go up for Canada and the United States.

This is the first price increase on Costco memberships since June 2017. That’s 7 year’s ago!

Individual, business, or business add-on memberships will go from $60 to $65 a year this fall. Along with its higher-tier Executive Membership going up from $120 to $130.

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Although there’s no way to avoid the increase, if you’re not yet a member and sign up now, you can avoid it until your yearly renewal. And right now, there’s a limited-time offer going on.

Even though the price increase isn’t anything super drastic, Costco shares that it will affect around 52 million memberships, a little over half of which are executive memberships.

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Costco’s Gold Star membership (the most basic option) allows customers to shop at all Costco locations worldwide (there are currently 108 in Canada) and online, shop exclusive offers and discounts, get an annual 2% reward on qualified warehouse, online and Costco Travel purchases, and receive Costco’s magazine by mail. Plus it includes 2 membership cards – for you and someone in your household.

We can only hope that there Won’t be another price increase anytime in the near future!

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For everyone who loves jumbo-sized products and a great deal, you’re in luck. Costco just opened another location in Toronto and is celebrating with opening week savings!

The new Costco Wholesale location is at 2260 Islington Ave, in Northwest Toronto, in the Rexdale neighbourhood. And it’s huge! 

“We have several locations in Toronto, and they’re quite busy. We felt that we needed another unit to make sure that we service our members properly,” says Marc-André Bally, Senior Vice-President & General Manager, Costco Wholesale Eastern Canada, to Retail Insider

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The 164,162 square feet location is Costco’s 21st location in the Greater Toronto Area. It includes a multi-level underground parking garage which holds 1,200 parking spots. Hopefully minimizing the common struggle of finding parking for Costco shoppers. 

The new Costco Wholesale location will, like other Costcos, have a gas station, on-site bakery, fresh meat and rotisserie chicken, optical centre and optometrist, and other departments, such as apparel, technology, and so much more. 

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Now, let’s talk opening week deals. In honour of the new location opening, Costco Wholesale is celebrating with a bunch of savings on coveted products. Including $200 off a Samsung 55-inch TV, $60 off a La-Z-Boy Manager Chair, and $50 off an 11-piece GreenPan cookware set, to name a few. 

To participate in the deals, you’ll have to have a Costco membership and shop in store. Sign up here if you don’t already have a membership.

This might just become our Costco Wholesale location of choice!

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Browsing the shelves at Costco can be a great time to load up on yummy food and treats at great prices. Of course, behind every business, there are always tips and tricks that should be used to make the most out of your experience. There are a ton of secrets that every dedicated shopper needs to know before stepping into the wholesaler, so we’ve got you covered.

Here are Things That Every Costco Shopper Should Know.

1. Share Your Membership Fee

The best way to instantly save at Costco is by splitting the upfront cost of a membership with a friend or family member who lives in the same household as you. This might seem like a no-brainer but this savings often goes overlooked amongst roommates. 

2. Product Selections Vary by Store

No two Costco stores are identical. While the size and layout of stores may be similar, there are differences amongst the product assortments at various Costco locations. Therefore, if you see a new item (especially on an aisle end cap), make sure to grab it because there’s no guarantee that it’ll be available at another store. Pro tip: There are some amazing beauty brands that you can find discounted too.

3. Shop Kirkland Signature Products

Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand. The quality of Kirkland brand items is pretty awesome, with Costco guaranteeing that products are at par or above the quality level of national brands, but for a lesser price. It’s a great idea for a gift – amazing quality yet reasonably priced. 

4. Costco Concierge

Costco members can take advantage of free 24/7 tech support and an extended two-year warranty on electronics like televisions, projectors, major appliances, and computers (excluding tablets,) from the date of purchase with Costco Concierge Services. Who knew? 

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5. The Best Return Policy Ever

While Costco’s return policy clearly outlines the refund deadlines for items like electronics, installation services, and jewelry; the terms are much more flexible when it comes to returning all other items. Therefore, if you’re unsatisfied with a product, Costco has you covered. All of its purchase information is attached to your membership so that you can easily exchange or refund an item even without your original receipt. Gifts can be returned! Hurray! 

6. The Best Times to Shop

As a Costco shopper, you need to know about the best time to shop. You’d be crazy if you expected to drive into a Costco parking lot with ease on a Sunday morning and comfortably find a free shopping cart. Although it’s inconvenient for most, the best times to shop at Costco are weekday mornings and early afternoons.

7. So Many Samples!

In the event that you do head to Costco on a weekend, be sure to take advantage of the yummy sample stations set up all along the aisles and in the bakery department, at some locations. Although, this definitely depends on whether there are restrictions set in place for the pandemic.

8. Costco Services

We bet that there’s A TON of services you didn’t realize Costco had – many of which are very beneficial to already existing and aspiring small business owners. Use your Costco membership to purchase discounted services such as logo designs and courier deliveries.

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9. Online Shopping

Many Costco members don’t realize that they can access all of the savings perks they are used to, online at Costco.ca. While you won’t be able to order perishable items, you can certainly shop for everything from diamond earrings to gift certificates, all of which already include shipping and handling in the price so there are no additional fees. 

10. Not a Costco Member?

Have someone else do the shopping for you but still reap the cost savings of a Costco membership. Toronto residents can benefit from a great delivery service that will take the ease out of Costco shopping while still delivering the club pack savings!

11. Missed A Sale On An Item You Bought? No Problem

Now, this is something that every Costco shopper needs to know! Even though Costco may not price match, it will however honour its own sale prices. If you purchased an item and then noticed it had a price cut within the 30 days of purchase, you can put in a request online to get the difference refunded.

12. Items Are Moved Around On Purpose

If you go into Costco and notice that your fave snack is always getting moved around, well that’s actually on purpose. Costco places inventory in different spots to create a “treasure hunt,” because they know that the more time you spend browsing the shelves, the more likely you’ll purchase other items. Keep this in mind if you notice this is happening to you!

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13. Location, Location, Location

When entering Costco, only shop the front items if it’s something you really need or want because those tend to have the highest mark-up. The bargains that you’re searching for are always in the middle of the store or near the back.

14. Price Tags Have A Special meaning

Next time you head out to the wholesaler, keep an eye out for the prices. If the price ends in .97 it could mean that this item is on clearance. If it ends in .88 or .00 it means that it’s either a manager discount (which you should buy ASAP if you want it), a floor model, or a return. Any price that ends in a 9 then it means that it’s a manufacturer discount so you might want to wait and keep an eye out for more deals. Also, if you happen to see an asterisk (*) at the end of the price, then grab it right away because the item won’t be restocked.

15. A Costco Card Can Be Used All Over The World

Once you’re a Costco member in your country, you’re also one all over the world. So if you plan on traveling or heading out of your city and pass by a Costco, you’re welcome to go in and shop.

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If you feel like you have been stuck in a rut lately or lacking inspiration for whatever reason, changing up your house or apartment can be just the thing you need to refresh your life and boost your energy. If you want to shop for home decor without leaving your home, then we have great news for you! There are so many awesome online furniture stores that offer affordable pieces, yet are still super chic. Never compromise style for price!

Here are places to shop for affordable and great quality furniture online.

WickerPark® Patio Furniture Store

Outdoor couch and table on a deck
Courtesy of WickerPark® Patio Furniture Store

WickerPark® Patio Furniture Store is a Toronto & Mississauga business that offers quality patio furniture, at an affordable price. Using the best in market materials like Rust Proof Powder Coated Aluminum Frames, Polyethylene All Weather Wicker, High-Density Quick Dry Foam, Cushions & Pillows with High-Grade Piping and Zippers, everything is made using industry-leading Sunbrella Fabric.

WickerPark® makes their furniture locally allowing them to offer over 500+ Sunbrella Fabric options, and a promise to support the local economy, and made with love in Canada! WickerPark® also boasts a 3-5 business day turnaround on 19 Sunbrella Fabric options.

In summary, you can feel good about supporting the local economy and shop products made of the highest grade materials. All of this at mid-market pricing, with most sectionals offered under $2,000. Check out www.wickerpark.ca.

Leon’s Furniture

Living room furniture
Leons.ca

For decades, Leon’s has been a go-to source for both furniture and appliances in Canada. With high-quality items to help you upgrade just about any room in your home, Leon’s has become one of the most trusted furniture sources across the country. Whether you’re looking for a new family sofa, that perfect accent chair or a more comfortable mattress for a better night’s sleep, Leon’s has got you covered with great pieces at affordable prices. Plus, with over 100 years of experience, you know you’ll be getting top-notch quality and service.

IKEA

Couch in front of a desk
Instagram/ @uponthepacific

This one likely comes as no surprise. We couldn’t round up the best affordable furniture and not include IKEA! With tons of couches under $1000, they have been the world’s largest furniture retailer since 2008, and for a good reason. IKEA has everything you could possibly need for every single room in your house. Their pieces are relatively quick and easy to build and will give your home a sleek, organized feel for less! IKEA also has a “New Lower Price” section on their website where you can save even more.

ZebraBlinds

Half open blinds in a bedroom
Zebrablinds.ca

An underrated retailer in the window decor world, ZebraBlinds has quietly positioned itself as one of the premier providers of smart blinds in Canada. Their Z-wave motorized blinds can be completely automated based on schedules and conditions, or can even be controlled using Google Home and Amazon Alexa. They are well known in smart home enthusiast communities such as the SmartThings forums due to their knowledgeable support. If you are looking for smart shades in Canada, this should be your first and last stop.

Costco

Costco furniture
Instagram/ @modernmama1

Costco has just about everything you could ever need, including furniture now! Whether you’re looking for modern furniture for your home or even smaller condo-sized furniture, they have some really great options if you’re looking to change up your home on a budget. We especially love their beds which range from $600-$700 for the most part!

Candace & Basil

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Candace & Basil actually has a showroom in Mississauga, Ontario. The Canadian furniture company typically always has new styles added to its 80% off online sale section every single week, so be sure to keep an eye out for those deals. From awesome items for the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and more, the options are endless, plus, it ships right to your door.

JYSK

Bed and nightstand
Instagram/ @jyskbedbathhome

JYSK has some of the best deals on furniture! If you’re looking to totally revamp your space to give it a refreshed, current feel, JYSK is your best bet. Their prices are great to begin with and they always have sales going on too! From dining room furniture to sofas, beds, and more, JYSK has a huge selection. Their sofas look incredible and are all under $1200!

Ashley furniture HomeStore 

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You can always be sure to score some great deals at the Ashley Furniture HomeStore. With already awesome prices, you most definitely can’t beat the sale prices plus the great quality. Offering beautiful and classic furniture, these pieces can seamlessly fit into your home.

Blu Dot

Dresser with decor on top
Instagram/ @bludot

If you’re looking for unique, high-quality pieces then Blu Dot is perfect for you! Their pieces cost a bit more than JYSK or IKEA, but considering they design and make everything in their Minneapolis studio, they aren’t bad. Bludot also has an outlet section on their website where you can save even more! For example, you can score a sofa for under $800 or save on chairs, tables, and more.

Best Buy

Nursery room in a house
Instagram/ @lanlynnxo

You may be surprised to learn that Best Buy actually sells furniture as well as electronics! Their pieces are surprisingly well priced but they also run promotions quite frequently too so you can save even more. They offer everything from bedroom furniture to living room furniture, dining room furniture, and items for your home office. Their bedroom sets fit every style and start at $400. Best Buy also has a sale section where you can save even more!

Overstock

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Overstock offers affordable furniture online paired with outstanding customer service. You can find everything you’re looking for on the site at such an affordable cost. Have a specific interior vision? Shop by style, category, or room.

Wayfair

Dining table and chairs with a plant in a vase centerpiece
Instagram/ @wayfaircanada

Wayfair has a huge selection of furniture! So, no matter what your home decor style is, you will be sure to find pieces you’ll love. There is usually a variety of sales going on so you can save even more as well. You’ll find tons of pieces that look just like your Pinterest boards and will be able to create your dream space without breaking the bank! For example, you can score over 100 gorgeous sectionals for under $1000!

Structube

Chair and couch with coffee table
Instagram/ @structube

Structube has a wide assortment of affordable furniture and accessories online to give your home a modern look that looks expensive while still being affordable. Whether you want to revamp your living room, home office, bedroom, or dining room, Structube has everything you need to make your space totally Insta-worthy! With all desks under $800 and all beds under $1200, there are lots of savings to be found here.

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Say it ain’t so! It’s just been announced that Costco is ending its free sample program and, not going to lie, we’re incredibly bummed. Costco and free samples go together like peanut butter and jelly so it feels like the end of an era.

According to Red Flag Deals, this new change is due to the coronavirus global health emergency.

costco free samples
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Because it’s due to Coronavirus, there’s no word on whether or not the bulk retailer’s free sample program will be reinstated when it’s eventually, and hopefully, blown over.

Costco’s free samples have already been put on pause at locations across the U.S. in states like Florida, California, and Washington State.

costco free samples
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Free samples aren’t the only things you’ll have trouble finding at Costco. According to USA Today, the retailer is struggling to keep items like bottled water, disinfectants, and other critical supplies, like toilet paper, on store shelves.

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