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Costco may be quietly cracking down on its famous return policy

Shoppers scramble to stockpile eggs in Costco as shortage intensifies
  • Costco is reportedly tightening its previously lenient return policy, now requiring members to provide additional proof of purchase and managers to monitor return frequency.
  • The policy adjustment is a response to customers exploiting the generous return system, with instances such as returning used Christmas trees and very old items being cited.
  • The move aligns with a broader retail trend, as fraudulent returns and claims are estimated to cost US retailers $104 billion in 2024.
  • Some long-standing members have expressed frustration on social media, reporting denied returns and changes to policies for perishable food items.
  • Alongside return policy changes, Costco is also transitioning custom cake and deli tray orders to its mobile app, with further digital upgrades like faster self-checkouts planned.
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