Great news for Costco lovers…especially those who live further away from the warehouses. The retail giant has announced that members can shop its insanely large catalogue online.

While retail stores are closing its doors all across Australia, Costco is strengthening its Aussie footprint and giving its members the chance to shop from the comfort of their homes, starting this week.

Costco has admitted that it has taken a beating from the recent natural disasters of the bushfires and drought, as well as coronavirus. But Costco Australia managing director Patrick Noone spoke to 9News saying:

“We had a really good Christmas season and there’s a lot of confidence in the market coming back.”

“I think the business underlying is very strong but there are a couple of little speedbumps in the way right now. I think the next few months will get better,” said Mr Noone.

While it seems that the announcement that German retail mammoth Kaufland would be withdrawing from Australia would be a cause of celebration for Costco, Mr Noone said their departure mattered little to Costco.

In fact, Mr Noone said that he actually welcomed the competition and that it makes “us all faster and stronger.”

We’re sure a few discreet champagne bottles were popped despite what they are publically saying.

Selected Online Items Available

But before you rush off to try buy the 1000-pack of toilet paper and various other Costco specialties, the retail store has said that not everything in the warehouse would be available online.

The initial offering would be limited to furniture, household appliances, whitegoods, electronics, toys, sporting goods, jewellery, watches, clothing and accessories, some grocery supplies and alcohol. And yes, toilet papers is for sale online.

What About Delivery?

In another first, the delivery fee will be bundled in with the product price so that the online price is also the total price.

Shipping of larger items will be limited to capital cities, while smaller products can wing itself to anywhere throughout Australia.

Strictly For Members

But, only members will be able to take advantage of the new online feature and you will need a $60 membership card to buy online, as well as in-store.

However, the good news is that you can register for a membership online and use your member number to shop online. To collect your card, you will need to go into a Costco Warehouse but you don’t need the card to shop online.

In addition, if you are already a Costco member, you need to go to their website to register for an online account, which is free for existing members.

Retailers such as Harvey Norman and JB Hifi will certainly be watching the new entrant into the online market carefully.

Costco said that new products will be added on a daily basis and prices will be constantly checked to ensure they are beating their competitors.

Have you ever shopped at Costo? Are you excited about this news? Tell us in the comments below.