• frezik@midwest.social
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    7 hours ago

    Did you know brands will make specific Costco versions that are meant to mimic the expected item but be slightly modified to use cheaper parts or less material.

    The opposite for food products. I’ve heard from people who supply Kirkland-branded stuff, and with the level of requirements put on it, those same people have no problem at all buying there.

    • Krauerking@lemy.lol
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      7 hours ago

      Sure those are just generics. Take the same manufacturing and modify the process as needed for consistency and value. But those generics can also be bought at regular grocery stores without paying a $100 entry fee.

      I am referring more to the upsell items, clothing, books, furniture, electronics. Those items are often sourced to be modified in a way that gives better profit margins while still appearing as a better deal than buying the name brand elsewhere. But it comes at a cost of lower quality on those items but because of their infinite return policy it’s often ignored.

      It’s not an end of the world type thing but it contributes to waste for perceived value. I understand that people love Costco and that I’m going to not be looked at lovingly for calling it out but it’s an issue I see and wish to point out when possible.