Costco testing membership card scanners at some locations across Canada

Costco Wholesale is testing membership card scanners at the entrances to its stores at several locations across Canada.

The retailer says it’s testing the scanners at stores in Ottawa, Edmonton, Regina and the B.C. Lower Mainland.

Costco requires shoppers to pay an annual membership fee and show their membership cards when shopping at its stores.

The new scanners are located at the entrances to Costco warehouses and require shoppers to scan their card before entering.

This comes after the company is set to raise membership fees in Canada and the U.S. this fall.

Effective Sept. 1, Canadians holding an individual, business or business add-on membership will see their annual membership fees go up by $5 to $65.

Those with executive memberships will receive a $10 increase to $130, and will also see their maximum annual rewards increased.

Guests must be accompanied by a valid member for entry to the store.

Costco has more than 100 stores across Canada.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 13, 2024.