Costco Australia is set to undergo significant transformations in 2026, building on a successful year in 2025. Here's a breakdown of the major changes on the horizon:
New Locations: Costco is expanding its physical footprint with plans to open three new warehouses. One of these will be located at Brisbane Airport in Queensland, with completion expected by late 2026. Additionally, warehouses in Pakenham, Victoria, and Alkimos, Western Australia, are set to break ground in 2026, with openings scheduled for 2027. This expansion will bring the total number of Costco warehouses in Australia to 18, with four in Victoria, four in New South Wales, three in Queensland, two in Western Australia, one in South Australia, and one in the Australian Capital Territory. Notably, Tasmania currently lacks a Costco warehouse.
New Products: Costco's product offerings will continue to evolve, with a focus on expanding its fresh produce section, including meat, produce, bakery items, and deli products. The company's in-house brand, Kirkland Signature, will also see growth, with plans to introduce new snack options. This diversification complements the existing range of grocery essentials, pantry staples, electronics, outdoor gear, clothing, and furniture.
New Technology: Costco is embracing technological advancements to enhance the customer experience. In 2025, the company introduced self-check-in machines at its warehouses, allowing customers to scan their membership cards and enter the store. This year, Costco is reportedly testing 'Scan and Pay' technology, enabling customers to scan items using their phones and complete purchases without waiting in traditional checkout lines. This innovation aims to streamline the shopping experience and reduce wait times at checkouts across the country.
