COSTCO shoppers are ‘very upset’ after realising it has axed a family favourite service.
The discount wholesaler has ceased its popular photo printing service leaving fans searching for an alternative.
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One customer posted in the Costco UK Facebook group to express their disappointment and get suggestions from other shoppers.
The post read: “I think I’m a few months late on discovering this, but just discovered that the photographic service that Costco offered has ceased.
“Does anyone know the backstory to this and any suggestions on other companies offering the same quality and good pricing?
“Very upset to hear this, I’ve used Costco for years for printing.”
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Other members of the group offered alternatives to the Costco service such as Max Speilman and Snapfish.
While one user commented: “If you don’t use it you lose it” in reference to customers not using services thus resulting in retailers pulling them.
The photo printing service was discontinued six months ago.
The Sun reported that the discount retailer had discontinued its printing service on Sunday, August, 6.
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The service allowed customers to order prints online for free collection at one of Costco’s 29 warehouses across the UK.
Costco warehouses also used to have kiosks where shoppers could use the service.
The service was a hit with shoppers as it was much cheaper than its rivals at 5p per print.
Photo printing store Snappy Snaps charges from 27p for the same service.
The photo service also allowed members to create personalised cards, invitations, banners, calendars and posters.
Customers who realised at the time were also upset as one said: “I’m gutted they finished with it – it was so cheap compared to anywhere else.”
Another commented: “Now the photo service has ended – which I used almost weekly – my visits to the store will decrease.”
The Sun did reach out to Costco at the time but it did not explain why it had shut down the service.
A statement was issued on its website that read: “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.”
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.
You cannot just walk into a Costco warehouse and start shopping like you can in a normal supermarket – you need to be a member.
To be eligible for a Costco 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.
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Members can get a range of services from discounted fuel and tyre installation to mortgage services and pet insurance.
Last 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.
