From Fox News · Teresa Mull · · 1m
Costco becomes unexpected dating spot
Costco's food court samples help Americans find love in a digital age
In brief
Costco's food court samples help Americans find love in a digital age Costco's sampling and shared spaces create in-person connections where digital interactions fall short Originally reported by Fox News.
Costco as third place
Costco has become a 'third place' where people build community outside home and work.
“Costco has turned shopping into an experience, not just an errand”
Students meet at Costco
UC Davis students organize food court meals to meet friends once or twice a quarter.
“If something small like a Costco trip can help someone meet new friends”
Influencers trade dinners
Social media influencers skip expensive dinners for Costco meal prep and $3 fro yo.
“Especially in this economy, instead of going out and dropping $200 on dinner”
Veterans find community
Military veterans meet at Costco for over 25 years, forming a support group for service members.
“Nobody cares what rank you were or what service you were in”
Couples use Costco dates
Some couples call their shopping trips 'clubbing for married folks' or 'Kirkland Signature date nights'.
“Costco creates a kind of retail ritual: the treasure hunt, the samples, the food court”
Costco's social impact
Americans spend fewer minutes socializing daily, with Costco shoppers averaging 31 trips annually.
“Costco shoppers are loyal, averaging 31 trips to the warehouse annually”
The short version
Costco's sampling and shared spaces create in-person connections where digital interactions fall short
