Article

Top 100: 51. Costco

April 26, 2011

As part of its foray into urban areas, Costco is experimenting with locating in regional shopping malls. The strategy has raised eyebrows as food stores tend to shun enclosed malls, which can be more costly and less convenient than other locations. (Think holiday season parking.) Shopping mall developer Westfield is bullish about the trend. “Introducing the new grocery category to our shopping centers is first and foremost a valuable new option for customers, and a very positive move for our grocery partners,” said senior vice president Chris Barnett. Although malls aren’t for every food retailer, analysts say Costco’s unique price-oriented model makes the grocer a good candidate.

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