Core Insights - Instacart and Costco have expanded their partnership into Europe, launching Costco's first same-day delivery websites in France and Spain, utilizing Instacart's Storefront Pro technology [1][3] - This expansion allows Costco members in these countries to shop online and receive same-day delivery from local Costco locations, enhancing convenience and access to products [2][3] Group 1: Expansion Details - Costco members in France and Spain can now place orders directly through Costco's websites, with deliveries fulfilled from local stores [2] - The initial rollout includes delivery from all Costco locations in France and Spain, covering major cities such as Paris, Mulhouse, Bilbao, Madrid, Seville, and Zaragoza [1] - Instacart's technology and fulfillment services are now being introduced in Europe for the first time, marking a significant step in its international expansion [1][4] Group 2: Technology and Services - Instacart's Storefront Pro is an enterprise-grade commerce platform that enables retailers like Costco to efficiently scale their online ordering and delivery programs [4] - The partnership aims to provide a seamless shopping experience for members, with same-as-in-store pricing and a flat service fee per order [2][3] - Instacart's technology supports hundreds of grocers' e-commerce sites in North America and is now extending its capabilities to European markets [4]

Core Viewpoint - Costco is facing a lawsuit for allegedly misleading customers by advertising its rotisserie chicken as containing "no preservatives," despite the presence of two preservatives in the product [1][2]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit was filed in the Southern District and claims that Costco's labeling misleads "reasonable consumers" into believing that no preservatives were added to the chicken [1]. - The specific preservatives mentioned in the lawsuit are sodium phosphate and carrageenan, which are included in the ingredient list [1]. Group 2: Financial Implications - The lawsuit alleges that Costco has systematically cheated customers out of tens to hundreds of millions of dollars through false advertising regarding its Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken [2].

International Costco are a major draw for Americans traveling abroad. To find out why, I went to Chiba, Japan. Costco has stores in 13 foreign markets, and as it's expanded, devoted Americans have followed.Search online for Costco in Sweden or Taiwan, and you'll find videos narrated in breathless wonder. There's fish jerky in Iceland, pallets of fuagra in France, and in Chiba, tempora chips, cookie sandwiches, the beef will goi bake. So, there are a ton of novel products, but what's most surprising is how m ...

Core Viewpoint - Costco Wholesale has demonstrated significant growth, with shares increasing over 170% in the past five years, outperforming the S&P 500's 80% gains during the same period [1] Dividend Analysis - Costco's current dividend yield stands at 0.5%, which may not attract investors initially, but the company has a history of increasing dividends and paying special dividends, suggesting it could be an underrated income stock [2] - The dividend yield is lower due to the substantial rise in stock price; as the stock value increases, the yield decreases even if the dividend payment remains the same [2] - The quarterly dividend has doubled from $0.65 at the start of 2020 to $1.30, reflecting a compounded annual growth rate of 12.2% [3] - Costco has issued special dividends twice, paying $10 per share in 2020 and $15 per share in 2023, indicating a strong performance and willingness to reward shareholders [4] Investment Perspective - While Costco's dividend should not be the primary reason for investment, it is a valuable aspect that may be overlooked due to its low yield [6] - The stock is currently valued at over 50 times earnings, which may be challenging for some investors, but it could still be a good long-term investment due to growth potential and dividend benefits [7] - For long-term investors, Costco represents a solid stock to hold, benefiting from both growth and dividend payments over time [8]

Core Viewpoint - Costco is considered a solid investment in the retail sector, with a strong business model supported by membership fees and consistent growth in sales and stock performance [1][5]. Company Performance - Costco's stock has averaged annual gains of 23% over the past five years and 20% over the past 15 years [5]. - In the last reported quarter, Costco's sales grew by 8%, with e-commerce revenue increasing by over 20% [5]. - The company has a recent forward-looking price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 47, which is above its five-year average of 41, indicating that the stock may be overvalued at present [2]. Membership and Revenue - Costco generates more than $5 billion annually from membership fees, which significantly supports its business model [5]. - The company offers "executive" memberships with additional perks to encourage upgrades among its members [5]. Growth Potential - As of January, Costco operates 923 locations globally, with 633 in the U.S., indicating substantial room for growth [5]. - The company is well-regarded for treating its stakeholders favorably, providing above-average pay and benefits to workers, modest markups for shoppers, and substantial returns to shareholders, including special dividends [5].

Core Insights - Costco partners with Figo to offer pet insurance, providing members with exclusive discounts such as 15% off premiums and a $25 gift card upon enrollment [1][2][22]. Group 1: Insurance Offerings - Costco pet insurance through Figo offers a comprehensive range of coverage, including options for wellness plans and accident and illness policies [10][11]. - The base plan does not cover vet exam fees or alternative care unless additional "Powerups" are purchased [3][6]. - Figo provides a unique 100% reimbursement option, although it cannot be combined with unlimited annual policies [4]. Group 2: Pricing and Discounts - Costco's average pet insurance premium is approximately $84.33 per month for a policy with $5,000 coverage and $129.55 for unlimited coverage, which is lower than average compared to competitors [17][18]. - A 5% multi-pet discount is available for members insuring more than one pet [18]. - Discounts vary based on membership type, with eligible Gold Star and Business members saving 15% and Executive members receiving additional perks [22][19]. Group 3: Claims and Customer Support - Claims must be submitted within 180 days of the vet visit, and Figo typically processes claims within 30 days, with most claims closing in less than three business days [24][25]. - Customers have access to a 24/7 vet helpline through Figo's Pet Cloud mobile app, which also allows for claims submission and storage of digital vet records [14][26]. Group 4: Coverage Limitations - Preexisting conditions are generally not covered unless they are curable and the pet has been symptom-free for 12 months [11][13]. - The policy does not cover various expenses, including preventative care, behavioral problems, and certain treatments unless additional coverage is purchased [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Costco, alleging that the company falsely claims its $4.99 rotisserie chickens are free of preservatives, despite containing sodium phosphate and carrageenan [1][2][4]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit, initiated by two California residents, accuses Costco of systematically deceiving consumers and potentially cheating them out of tens to hundreds of millions of dollars [1][10]. - The plaintiffs argue that Costco's marketing strategy exploits the growing consumer demand for "clean label" and preservative-free products, leading customers to purchase the rotisserie chickens under false pretenses [4]. Group 2: Ingredients and Health Concerns - Sodium phosphate and carrageenan, the additives in question, are used to retain moisture and improve texture in the rotisserie chickens, and both are approved by food safety authorities [5][6]. - While these ingredients are permitted, they have been linked to health concerns, such as risks for individuals with kidney disease and potential cardiovascular issues [7][8]. - Studies have shown mixed results regarding the safety of carrageenan, with some linking it to inflammation and digestive problems, while others assert that food-grade carrageenan is safe at typical consumption levels [9]. Group 3: Market Impact - Costco sells over 100 million rotisserie chickens annually, making it one of the most popular prepared foods in the U.S. [10]. - The price of $4.99 has remained unchanged for over a decade, despite inflation and rising costs, contributing to the chicken's status as a cult favorite and a strategic loss leader for the retailer [12].

Core Viewpoint - A proposed class action lawsuit has been filed against Costco, alleging false advertising regarding its rotisserie chicken, which is claimed to contain preservatives despite being marketed as having "no preservatives" [1][2]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit was filed on January 22 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, accusing Costco of misleading customers and potentially cheating them out of tens to hundreds of millions of dollars [1][2]. - The complaint includes allegations of violations of multiple consumer protection laws in California and Washington state, where Costco is headquartered [3]. - The lawsuit was initiated by two women from California, highlighting the issue of misleading advertising practices [3]. Group 2: Company Response - Costco has responded by stating that it has removed the misleading signage regarding preservatives from its stores and online presentations [4]. - The company clarified that carrageenan and sodium phosphate are used in their rotisserie chicken to maintain moisture retention, texture, and product consistency, and both ingredients are approved by food safety authorities [4]. Group 3: Advertising Claims - The lawsuit cites a specific in-store advertisement claiming that the Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken contains no preservatives, artificial flavors, colors, MSG, or gluten [5]. - The complaint alleges that sodium phosphate and carrageenan, both preservatives, are included in the product, contradicting the advertising claims [6]. - It is noted that the preservatives are listed on the packaging in smaller print, which the lawsuit argues is misleading [7]. Group 4: Legal Allegations - In addition to false advertising, the lawsuit accuses Costco of violating unfair competition laws by engaging in deceptive business practices that misled consumers into paying a premium for the rotisserie chicken [8].

Group 1 - Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is currently trading at a high valuation, approximately 50 times earnings, which raises concerns about its stock price being too "rich" for new investments [1] - The company's re-up rate, which indicates customer retention and repeat purchases, is not as strong as desired, despite the stock experiencing a bounce [1] - Costco operates membership warehouses offering a wide range of products and services, including groceries, fresh food, household goods, electronics, pharmacies, gas stations, optical centers, and e-commerce options [2] Group 2 - There is a belief that certain AI stocks may present greater upside potential and carry less downside risk compared to Costco, suggesting a shift in investment focus for some investors [3]

Core Viewpoint - Costco is set to distribute its first quarterly dividend of 2026, maintaining a consistent dividend payment history since 2005, with a declared amount of $1.30 per share for shareholders on record as of January 30, 2026 [1][2]. Dividend Details - The upcoming dividend payment of $1.30 per share is unchanged from the previous payment made on November 14, 2025 [2][3]. - Investors holding 100 shares will receive a total of $130 in dividends next month, with the potential yearly total estimated at $520 if the dividend schedule remains consistent [3]. Dividend Growth and Yield - Costco has achieved 22 consecutive years of dividend increases, demonstrating a commitment to steady dividend growth [4]. - The company's forward payout ratio is 23.4%, indicating room for future dividend increases [4]. - Despite these strengths, Costco's forward dividend yield is 0.54%, significantly lower than the consumer staples sector average of 1.89%, suggesting that income generation is not the primary attraction for investors [4]. Investor Appeal - The stock is likely to attract investors who prefer consistent growth and potential sporadic dividend increases over higher immediate yields, as evidenced by its historical dividend performance [5].