The move isn’t new for Costco, which has long earned praise for treating its workers with respect, offering competitive wages, and supporting a healthy work-life balance. Still, the announcement sparked a wave of positive reactions online, with many customers contrasting Costco’s policies with those of rival retailers.
A Day of Rest for Workers
Labor Day, a holiday dedicated to celebrating American workers, is one of seven major holidays when Costco warehouses nationwide shut their doors. The others include Christmas, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Easter, Independence Day, and Memorial Day.
“Good for Costco, allowing their employees to observe standard holidays,” one shopper wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Another added: “Costco and Costco Canada close on Labor Day every year. They’ve always treated employees better than Sam’s Club — and I’ll continue to back that up with my membership.”
Operations Around the Holiday Weekend
Although all stores will close for the full day on September 1st, Costco warehouses will remain open for regular hours throughout the rest of the Labor Day weekend. That means customers will still have time to stock up on essentials for barbecues, picnics, and back-to-school preparations. Stores will reopen on Tuesday, September 2nd, with normal operating hours.
Reputation for Worker-Friendly Policies
Costco has built a reputation over the years for valuing its employees in ways that set it apart from many big-box competitors. The company is well known for offering:
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Above-average starting wages compared to industry standards.
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Generous health and retirement benefits.
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Predictable scheduling and guaranteed time off on major holidays.
For many loyal shoppers, these policies reinforce Costco’s image not only as a place to buy bulk groceries and household goods, but also as a company that puts people first.
Why It Matters
While a 24-hour closure may seem like a small gesture, it highlights a growing expectation from customers that corporations show tangible support for the people behind the business. As one customer summed it up online:
“Costco isn’t just saving me money — it’s proving that they respect their workers. That’s why they’ll always have my membership.”
With Labor Day just around the corner, Costco members are already planning ahead — not just for shopping, but to celebrate the fact that their favorite retailer is giving its employees a well-earned holiday.
