Costco Wholesale Corporation is a leading American retail company founded in 1983 by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman in Issaquah, Washington, USA.

As a membership-only warehouse club, Costco is known for offering bulk products at discounted prices, efficient operations, and a limited product selection that helps deliver value to millions of members worldwide.

When Was Costco Established?

Founded: 1983
Founders: James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman
Headquarters: Issaquah, Washington, USA
Industry: Retail
Locations: 924 warehouses
Employees: 341,000
Annual Revenue: $286.27 billion (2025)

Costco Mission Statement

"To offer our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise."

What Is Costco Known for?

Here are some of Costco's standout features that separate it from its competitors.

Membership-Based Warehouse Club

Costco operates a membership-based warehouse club model, giving shoppers access to discounted bulk products for an annual fee. This approach is central to the Costco company profile and its value-driven retail strategy.

Kirkland Signature Products

Costco's private-label Kirkland Signature brand is widely recognized for quality and value across categories such as groceries, household goods, and specialty items.

Popular Food and Grocery Items

Costco is also known for popular items like rotisserie chicken, the hot dog and soda combo, organic produce, and wine, which have become favorites for many shoppers.

How Many Locations Does Costco Operate?

Costco operates 924 locations across multiple countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia, Taiwan, China, Spain, France, Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden.

As one of the world's largest retail warehouse chains, Costco continues expanding its footprint while strengthening its e-commerce capabilities and online shopping experience.

Which Regions Does Costco Operate In?

Costco has a strong international presence in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific. Its global reach supports a broad customer base and reinforces its position as a major retail leader.

Who Owns Costco Wholesale Corporation?

Costco Wholesale Corporation is a publicly traded company, so it is owned by shareholders. Its business model is built around annual memberships, efficient operations, and consistent savings for members.

Is Costco Wholesale Corporation Currently Hiring?

You can check out the open positions that Costco Wholesale Corporation has right here on OysterLink.

Costco Jobs in San Diego

Jobs From Costco

Cake Decorator