COSTCO has abruptly axed a major service online and in all of its stores – and shoppers are gutted.
The discount retailer discontinued its photo printing service on Sunday August 6, according to a statement on its website.
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Customers could order prints online for free collection at one of Costco’s 29 warehouses across the UK.
Warehouses also used to have kiosks where shoppers could use the service, but The Sun understands these have now disappeared from all stores.
Shoppers could order photos for as little as 5p per print – far cheaper than rivals.
Photo printing store Snappy Snaps charges from 27p for the same service.
Costco’s photo service also allowed members to create personalised cards, invitations, banners, calendars and posters.
Calendars started from £2.29 while a set of 25 personalised cards or party invitations cost just £16.99, according to a historic version of the website from May.
Costco shoppers have taken to social media to share their disappointment at the loss of the service.
One shopper said: “I’m gutted they finished with it – it was so cheap compared to anywhere else.
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“I used to print personalised Christmas cards and invites regularly, as well as the personalised gifts and of course prints and posters.”
Another commented: “Now the photo service has ended – which I used almost weekly – my visits to the store will decrease.”
Costco did not explain why it had shut down the service.
A statement on its website reads: “We regret to inform you that all online photo services were discontinued on Sunday 6th August 2023.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to our members, and thank you for your understanding.”
The Sun has approached Costco for more information and we will update this story when we hear back.
How do I become a Costco member?
Costco is a chain retail store that sells items in bulk. It also sells items under its own brand, Kirkland.
Not just anyone can shop at Costco – you need to be a member.
To be eligible for membership, you need to have – or be retired from – a certain type of job.
This includes public sector workers such as NHS staff, police officers, teachers and local government workers.
Costco membership starts from £15 a year for online shopping only, rising to £33.60 a year for individual members who want access to the warehouses.
There are also trade memberships for businesses starting at £26.40 a year.
The retailer offers a range of other services for members, from discounted fuel and tyre installation to mortgage services and pet insurance.
Earlier this year, Costco launched its first digital membership card, meaning shoppers can now scan their phones in stores rather than having to carry a physical card.
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