China is a retail landscape like no other—hyper-competitive, tech-driven, and deeply rooted in tradition.
The big question is whether Costco adapts to the country’s unique style or sticks to its classic formula
Let’s discover it 🪄
Entrance Deals: CNY Takeover
The layout? Classic Costco. The Deals? Hard to call…
Since it was a total Chinese New Year (CNY) takeover, the entrance was 100% festive focus—think massive gift boxes and local snacks everywhere
Electronics: Not so local!
Walk into the tech section and you definitely don’t feel like you’re in China… While a local Walmart or Chinese RT-Mart highlight domestic brands, Costco keeps the focus international…
Unlike Costco Korea, where local brands get the VIP treatment, here it feels just like what you’d find in a Costco in the U.S. or Overseas
Apple tables are the stars of the IT show – Sony, Samsung, and Philips represents the TV
The home section follows the same path, leaning heavily into Japanese quality with Sharp, Panasonic and Hitachi. Interestingly, the only major local shout-out is Casarte
Only a handful of small gadgets came from local brands, such as Insta action cameras from Shenzhen — City where this store is located!
An important feature of Costco Asia and China China: live product demos like this De’Longhi coffee machine demo
Home Section: Global Style, Local Roots
The home section is a vibe—mostly Western style but with some brilliant local nods. You’ve got Fine Bone China celebrating the country’s ceramic heritage sitting right next to professional Woks
Even the cleaning aisle stays global with brands like Finish, just with localized packaging
Fresh Section: Into Familiar Territory – Except for…
The fresh zone feels like a total slice of home—at first…
The journey begins with the fresh produce and its chilled fridge, where fruits and vegetables are stacked high in true Costco bulk style
On the way to the protein section, shoppers pass by the bakery, that is focusing on baguettes and other breads, products not typically part of the daily Chinese food routine
Protein Section: A Very Local Experience Awaits
The meat and fish sections start off standard with USDA Beef and familiar Sushi sets.
EXCEPT! for the LIVE SEAFOOD TANKS – something unique to Costco in China
The poultry aisle adds another local twist, offering every part of the bird—including Chicken Feet, a true local delicacy.
The deli perfectly balances the two worlds, mixing global Ready-to-eat Meals with local meal sets tailored for Chinese tastes.
Beyond Fresh: Pantry, Pets & Pour Decisions
The dairy and egg fridge has a classic setup with some more local products but nothing very exceptional
The beverage section is a solid mix of local and global favorites, the alcohol aisle is where things get interesting
There is a showstopper: Moutai. This iconic local spirit is so highly valued that it’s kept under lock and key in security boxes
Most Expensive item here: 💵 ¥7,988.90 ≈ 1,050 EUR/USD
Groceries: Global Staples & Pasta Surprises
The grocery aisles are a powerhouse of international brands. You’ll find all the heavy hitters like Heinz, Nutella, and Bonne Maman spread across the shelves.
What’s really surprising is the love for pasta. While noodles are a local given, Garofalo pasta takes center stage here over more common brands like Barilla
You’ll even find ready-to-cook pasta meal sets sitting right next to traditional noodle kits, plus unique finds like Borsch.
Demos: The Costco Experience, Made Local
What’s impressive in the food section are the huge demos taking place
Snack Section: Meet Chinese Favorites
The snacking section is massive, taking up way more space than your average food aisle. It’s a high-energy mix where international favorites sit side-by-side with a huge variety of local Chinese brands.
Health & Beauty: A Showcase of Variety and Detail
The product assortment is a great mix of Japanese, Korean, local Chinese, and international brands
What’s especially unique here is the consistent use of showcases next to products
Chinese New Year: Grand Celebration at Costco
CNY is the biggest retail event of the year in China, and Costco goes all out for it.
One interesting feature is their same-day delivery service, prominently highlighted with a dedicated pallet—something rarely seen so clearly showcased in other countries
Checkout with a Distinct Asian Touch
The checkout area is quite large and efficient, and what really stands out is a hallmark of Costco stores in Asia — the walls behind the counters are filled with vibrant ads
The Food Court: Not So Different
The menu mostly features Western, Korean, and Japanese dishes, with very few authentic chinese specialties
Hot Dog 🌭 💵 ¥10.9 ≈ 1.42 EUR/USD
Membership: A Simple Choice
One membership option: the Gold Star for ¥299
💵 ¥299 ≈ 38.90 EUR/USD
In America: Gold Star membership costs $65 annually – 66% more expensive!
Conclusion: Same Same And Not So Different
At the end of the day, the cultural shock at Costco China is way less intense than you’d expect. While there are a few local twists here and there, the vibe is remarkably familiar.
Experience this beautiful Costco China store here under ⬇️
Shanghai Address: Costco Shenzhen
Minda Road #68, Longhua, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
Opening Hours: 9AM to 9 PM
Click here for Apple Maps link (Google Maps is not working well in China…)
Thank you very much for your interest in this store. Please feel free to share any feedback in the comments
Have a wonderful time 😁
The WizArno Team
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