Costco Stores Closed for Labor Day as New Executive-Only Early Access Policy Takes Effect

New York, Sept. 1, 2025 - Wholesale retailer Costco remained closed at all 634 U.S. warehouses today in observance of Labor Day, in line with its longstanding tradition of giving employees time off on major federal holidays. Costco’s holiday schedule ensures that stores are shuttered on seven key dates each year, including New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day.

Despite the closure, Sept. 1 also marked the official launch of Costco’s controversial early access policy for its highest-tier members. Beginning today, only Executive Members-those who pay a $130 annual fee-will be granted exclusive shopping hours from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on weekdays and from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays; Gold Star and Business members will be denied entry until the general opening time of 10:00 a.m. (9:30 a.m. on Saturdays).

Company executives defended the change as a way to “reward loyalty” among the 73% of sales driven by Executive Members, noting that the policy was first introduced in June with a grace period lasting through August 31. However, the strict enforcement of the early-access window has drawn criticism from non-Executive members and employees who argue it creates fairness and logistical concerns for the broader membership base.