Costco Wholesale — Local services in Arlington

My recent experiences at the Costco warehouse have unfortunately been marred by a disconcerting trend of workers seemingly overstepping boundaries in their pursuit of membership card verification. While I understand the importance of ensuring a members-only shopping environment, the manner in which this verification is carried out has become increasingly intrusive and, in some instances, borderline harassing.

The frequency with which workers approach customers for membership card checks has reached a point that goes beyond ensuring the security of the store. Instead, it feels like an aggressive push that borders on discomfort for patrons. This incessant checking not only disrupts the shopping experience but also creates an atmosphere of mistrust between customers and the staff.

It is essential to recognize that while membership verification is a necessary protocol, the approach and frequency must strike a balance that preserves the welcoming and customer-centric environment that Costco is known for. The current trend, however, appears to be eroding this atmosphere, making customers feel scrutinized and unwelcome.

Moreover, the manner in which some workers execute these checks seems to lack professionalism. Instances of aggressive or confrontational behavior have been observed, further exacerbating the discomfort for customers who are simply trying to enjoy their shopping experience. This not only reflects poorly on the individual workers but also raises questions about the overall training and management oversight within the store.

While the security of the store and the exclusivity of membership benefits are important, it is crucial for Costco to address this issue promptly. A review of the current verification practices, coupled with additional training for staff on customer interaction and service, may help strike a more appropriate balance between security measures and preserving the welcoming atmosphere that customers expect from a reputable brand like Costco.

In conclusion, the increasing frequency and aggressive approach of membership card checks at the Costco warehouse have negatively impacted the overall shopping experience. Striking a balance between security measures and customer comfort is crucial to maintain the trust and loyalty of patrons who have come to expect a positive and inclusive environment from the Costco brand. Immediate attention to this issue would contribute to the restoration of a more harmonious shopping experience for...

I was insulted by an aggressive employee in the store today (Feb 8th 2025).

Normally I don’t get anything from the food sample station, but today I was too hungry and saw pizza samples just came out, so I went to the sample station to get one. There’s a lady waiting there already, but she is on her phone and did not grab anything, so I went to her side and grabbed one. Yet there are plenty left (~20 left), she yelled at me, asking if I saw her standing there already. I thought she was just a hungry customer like me so I said sorry right away. I wanted to explain to her that I grabbed it because I saw her on phone without moving, but then, I saw her walking back to the sample station next to the pizza one, and grabbed her Costco employee red vest!!! I can’t believe the store allows employees to yell at customers in store in any case!!!

After seeing she was employee instead of customer, I planned to walk up to her and asked if I could talk to her manager, but she saw me walking up and yelled “Any problems?” I got so scared based on how aggressive she is and decided to walk away.

From her standpoint maybe she did not realize how long she was on her phone and there were people waiting, and I should not grab food before her, but still, I’m fine if she is just a normal selfish aggressive customer, however, she is an aggressive employee yelling at customer, and this is not acceptable. Also, as an employee, she was taking the food samples for customers, and got mad at customers getting it before her!!! How ridiculous it is!!!

What happened completely ruined my shopping experience. If not for the family, I would have just left without buying anything. I will not go back to this store anymore after this happened. I can put up with terrible traffic and parking at this store location, but having aggressive employees yell at customer is a dealbreaker.

I also filed a complaint online for this store. If Costco can’t keep the staff service standard, people can choose no longer to be...

I love Costco. Costco is my jam. Costco is my go-to grocery/warehouse store. This Costco, however, is my least favorite in this area. I literally have to be dragged into this Costco and I will try my best to avoid it at all costs, especially on the weekends.

Now I understand why this Costco is the way it is. It's in Pentagon City and space is super valuable in this part of town. It's not like Fairfax or Alexandria where you have more space for parking and the warehouse itself. It's contained in a small lot and shares the lot and space with a mall. I understand all this but that doesn't mean I have to come here. There's always a line just to get into this lot because you have to get a parking ticket before finding a coveted parking space. Now, you can get your parking ticket validated at Costco if you purchase something - remember to bring that ticket with you! Also remember that free parking is validated for only two hours, so if you're planning to stay any longer, you'll have to pay for it.

Despite to find much-needed parking, people looking for parking are all over the place. I don't know why, but people can't seem to read the directions of the arrows on the lanes and will drive the wrong way. I once saw one guy drive into a one-way lane to get into a spot, essentially stealing it from another guy who was waiting patiently and going the correct way. This almost led into an altercation. Parking is a nightmare at this location. You have to be mega-patient in order to find a parking spot.

I also find that this Costco frequently runs out of things. The other day, I was here to get some Coca Cola and found that the regular Coke was all out and they didn't have any more, not even in the back.

Try to avoid this Costco on weekends especially around the lunch hour. Not unless you want to spend half an hour looking for parking or another half an hour to 45 minutes waiting in the long...