Costco has introduced its first change to the iconic $1.50 hot dog combo in 40 years. Since 1985, the wholesale club has offered a 20-ounce refillable fountain drink and a quarter-pound beef hot dog for less than two dollars. Now, shoppers can pair their hot dog with a 16.9-ounce bottle of Kirkland Signature water instead of a soda.
Customer Discovery
The change was first noted by a Costco member in Virginia via a Reddit post. In the comments, members in Nevada and California confirmed similar options at their local stores. It remains unclear if and when all U.S. locations will offer the bottled water alternative. The Independent has contacted Costco for comment.
Price Stability
Despite the modification, Costco has maintained the $1.50 price. During a 2024 quarterly earnings call, CFO Gary Millerchip stated, “The $1.50 hot dog price is safe.” In 2018, former CEO Jim Sinegal jokingly threatened his successor, Craig Jelinek, against raising the price, saying, “If you raise the ef**** hot dog, I will kill you. Figure it out.”
Recent Policy Changes
Costco has also updated its return policy. In February, shoppers reported that workers now require extra proof of purchase for some returns, with managers monitoring return frequency. This follows instances of customers abusing the 90-day return policy, such as returning Christmas trees well after the holiday season.
