This is Costco's owner and he has an unexpected plan for the company in 2025.

Costco is one of the largest warehouse club chains in the world, known for offering quality products at very competitive prices. With a presence in several countries and a business model that has attracted millions of members, the company has managed to position itself as a leader in the retail sector. However, despite its global success, there is a question that continues to generate interest: who is the real owner of Costco?

Costco's unstoppable growth in the United States

Costco's story begins in 1976, when Sol Price founded Price Club in San Diego, California. Initially, its model was aimed only at commercial customers, but Price Club quickly shifted focus and began offering products to consumers under a membership system. This strategy was key to the growth of the wholesale club sector.

In 1983, Jim Sinegal and Jeff Brotman founded Costco Wholesale in Seattle, Washington. Thanks to their innovative approach, Costco experienced unbelievable growth in just six years. Today, the company has more than $64 billion in annual sales and has a significant international presence.

Costco's business model and ownership structure

Costco's success is based on its efficient business model, which focuses on keeping costs low and passing those savings directly to its members. The American company is characterized by having a limited product catalog, which allows it to choose only the best items in terms of quality, price, and brand.

Although Costco has reached an impressive level of success, it doesn't have a single owner. About 70% of its shares are held by institutional and private shareholders, including large funds like BlackRock and Vanguard. This ownership system differs from other large companies, making Costco a unique example of shared ownership.

The company's current CEO, Ron Vachris, has continued with the growth and expansion strategy that Sinegal and Brotman established. In his recent statement, Vachris announced that Costco will open six new locations in the coming months in various states. These include Texas, California, Michigan, and Massachusetts, which shows the strong demand the chain continues to have across the country.

Competition and market positioning

Despite the fierce competition in the supermarket sector, Costco continues to outperform big names like Carrefour and, in the United States, is only surpassed by Walmart. This continued success is due to its simple yet effective business model: low prices, quality products, and exceptional customer service.

Costco's secret lies in its ability to attract millions of customers seeking an efficient and economical shopping experience. The company not only focuses on price but also on offering products that are truly worthwhile. Its sales style has earned consumer loyalty, and it is likely to continue growing in the coming years.