Costco Is Bringing Back Free Samples to Their Stores Soon

Costco is loved for its wholesale quantities, delicious bakery section, and overall high-quality shopping experience. That experience was characterized partially by the on-location food courts and samples throughout the aisles, but due to the pandemic, Costco temporarily suspended those services. Fortunately, recent reports confirm that Costco's samples and food courts will be up and running business again soon enough.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic, Costco closed down their on-site food courts and only offered their pizza and hot dogs for takeout in order to simplify processes for employees. Chains like Taco Bell and McDonald's did the same by limiting menu items and breakfast options in order to make the high traffic at drive-thrus more efficient.

Over the summer, though, Costco began re-adding food items like the chicken bake and smoothies for customers to enjoy outside of the store. Costco also began offering single packaged items as samples throughout the warehouse.

In a recent interview with CNN, Costco's Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti talked about the return of the food court experience in stores. "It's going to take some time," he told the outlet: "The food courts work. They're one of the things we're known for. We're pleased that they're coming back."

When local regulations allow, seating at the Costco food court will be permitted for members. And as for the beloved samples, a plexiglass barrier will be installed at sample stations. Galanti said some of the first items on the docket are breakfast sandwiches, noodle dishes, and meatballs.

Want more recipes, design ideas, and fun updates from Ree? Follow The Pioneer Woman Magazine on Facebook for all of that and more!