Costco is one of the most popular chains in the United States, famous for its large discounts on basic products. However, many customers are not aware of all the tricks that can help them save more. Recently, a TikTok user revealed one of these secrets, causing great surprise among shoppers.
The trick discovered by the TikToker has left many surprised by the price difference that can be found in the store. This finding, which has quickly gone viral, shows how a small detail can make a big difference in the budget. Undoubtedly, the virality of this video has made many wonder if they are making the most of Costco's offers.
This is the trick to save at Costco
Costco's rotisserie chicken is an iconic product in many American families. Its low cost and the convenience of being a ready-to-eat dish have made it one of the most demanded options.
However, a recent discovery has revealed that, interestingly, buying the already cooked chicken turns out to be cheaper than buying it raw. This was shown in a video by TikTok user @steelpan.guy, who compared the prices of both products at his local store.
In his video, @steelpan.guy shows that three frozen chickens cost $34, which equals $11 per unit. However, when he turns his attention to the prepared food section, he realizes that the rotisserie chicken, which is already ready to eat, only costs $7.99.
This price difference surprised both the video creator and many of the comments that began to fill social media. Some users mentioned that at their local Costco, the price of rotisserie chicken is even lower, costing only $4.99.
A great strategy by Costco
Why does Costco sell its chicken at a low price? The answer lies in a business strategy known as "loss leader." This technique involves offering products at extremely low prices to attract customers, hoping that shoppers will end up purchasing other more expensive items.
As a user explained in the TikTok video: "It's to get you into the store and buy more." In fact, although Costco loses money on the chicken, it recovers it with sales of other products.
The same tactic is used with other iconic store products, like hot dogs. Costco has kept its hot dog and drink combo at $1.50 for several years, despite inflation and rising production costs. This type of offer keeps customers loyal, who are often drawn in by the attractive bargains and end up filling their carts with additional products.
The reason Costco can maintain such low prices on its rotisserie chicken lies in its control over production. The company has invested in its own processing plants, allowing it to maintain a constant supply and reduce costs.
According to data from CBC, in 2022 Costco sold 117M rotisserie chickens. This figure has increased every year, showing the popularity of this product.
Despite the price difference, some consumers prefer to buy raw chicken to cook it their way. Although rotisserie chicken is convenient and cheap, not all customers are willing to sacrifice control over the ingredients. As a TikTok user mentioned: "The rotisserie chicken has too many ingredients, I prefer something more natural."
Thus, the trick to saving at Costco is as simple as buying the rotisserie chicken. Thanks to its pricing strategy, the store offers a ready-to-eat product at an unbeatable price. Meanwhile, shoppers who fall into the "loss leader" trap end up taking home more products than they initially had in mind. A simple but very effective trick.