Costco... Cost isn't the problem, it's the amount I spend! (Costco)

Member Name: blueflowerofscot

Product:	Costco
Date:	08/06/09 (82 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great selection, wonderful staff

Disadvantages: Not always cheaper to buy there - Research!

Ah... Costco. Coming from North of the border, I was used to Macro which was a bit of a mission to be honest.

It is unfair to compare Costco and Macro as the service, size and choice, in Costco clearly knocks Macro to the ground!

Some things you are better off buying in supermarkets, we were comparing washing powder/tablets/fabric conditioner. To buy the powder, they had a fantastic offer on both the branded Persil and the Costco own brand. (It's worth remembering that Costco 'own brand' is made in the same factory and using the same ingredients, so essentially the same product as a branded item) I am quite convinced their 'own brand' fabric conditioner is actually comfort. There is a website that tells you which each of them are, but I'm having a senior moment!

Fabric Conditioner is also a great buy there, generally working out a fair but cheaper than usual. Washing tablets would be the only area that I wouldn't recommend, unless they have an offer on it as the 148 Persil tablets saves you about 20p compared to buying them in the supermarket (Sainsbury's had 1/3 off) so do you want that amount sitting around the house?

Crisps and sweets are goid vakue, at Easter time they had Lily O'Brien Easter eggs for £5.

I find that the best bit about Costco is the meat, it's one of the main reasons we go. I have found both the meat and fish great quality. You can buy fresh in bulk and freeze individual portions. Examples:

15 (approx) frozen chicken breasts - £10
10 frozen tuna steaks - £10

Extra Matured Aberdeen Angus steaks (3 in a pack for £11) They are so big and tender, you would struggle to eat a whole one yourself, we cut them in half and with some Veg, it's more than plenty.

We're also fiends for cheese, some great deals if you can cope with 1kg of feta cheese!

500g of blueberries (fresh) for £5 (in Sainsbury's £2.99 for 150g).

The clothes in Costco are also worth a mention, Jasper Conran clothing for women (as seen in Debenhams, different items though), Pringle boxers for men, Birkenstock sandals for both men and women. All at reasonable prices.

The only things I would avoid buying in Costco would be wines and spirits as you generally get a better deal at supermarkets as they regularly put in special offers.

In summary, I love Costco, well worth a monthly visit to stock up on the staples. I have yet to find friendlier, more helpful staff anywhere! Well the Watford staff are.

Summary: Love it! - The apple pie is massive, but gorgeous!