Store visit at American retail giant Costco Wholesale in Sweden

The Costco warehouse in Arninge near Stockholm features a sales area of 13,300 square meters. It offers a broad assortment in a classic warehouse layout

Non-food categories are prominently placed at the entrance. TVs, apparel, and seasonal items greet customers first

Products are presented in a no-frills environment using industrial high-rack shelving. The layout emphasizes efficiency over aesthetics

Apparel is displayed simply, with trouser sizes color-coded for easy selection. The presentation supports quick shopper decisions.

The textile section prioritizes operational efficiency. Items are stocked in bulk without decorative elements.

Costco follows a strict one-SKU-per-pallet policy. This simplifies restocking and maximizes volume turnover

Promotional displays also follow the “mass sells mass” principle. Bulk packaging reinforces the value message

Large packs are standard, as seen with nets of five avocados. The bulk approach supports Costco’s price-value strategy

The bakery offer is compact, but custom cake orders and visible production attract customers. The confectionery kitchen is a standout feature.

Fresh categories are all self-service, with backroom production visible through glass walls. This setup conveys freshness and transparency.

High hygiene standards are emphasized in all fresh production zones. The open layout builds trust in product quality.

Many items in the fresh area are convenience-focused. Ready-to-eat fruit platters and prepared meals dominate.

Kirkland Signature is present across all departments, including fresh convenience. The brand reinforces Costco’s private label strength.

Kirkland Signature also covers food-to-go, such as artisan pizzas made on site. Dozens of such SKUs target families and bulk buyers.

Dairy and cheese are merchandised in shelf-ready packs with large pack sizes. Costco favors speed over variety in these categories.

Beverages are stocked along multiple straight pallet aisles. The layout ensures high throughput and visibility

End-of-aisle pallets in ambient categories signal aggressive pricing.  

Wide, brightly lit aisles maintain a warehouse feel. There is no ambient music or decorative signage

Pack sizes stand out compared to other Swedish grocers. Rapeseed oil in 10-liter bottles exemplifies the bulk format

Shopping carts are oversized to accommodate large-volume purchases. This supports Costco’s bulk-selling model

More than a dozen product tastings are offered in ambient departments. Sampling encourages trial of large-pack items.

Toward checkout, Costco clusters categories related to health. This includes cosmetics, baby care, and wellness services.

The pharmacy sells prescription drugs for humans and pets. It is staffed by qualified healthcare professionals.

Costco uses a three-person checkout system: one unloads, one scans, and one bags. Carts are split from customers for efficiency.

A food court with seating is located in front of the checkout area. Popular items include pizza and hot dogs – produced in-house.

The integrated tire center allows customers to get tires changed while they shop. It is located near the store exit

Costco incentivizes member recruitment with vouchers. Referrals receive money-off and foodservice coupons.