The retailer aims to ease capacity constraints at warehouse pumps amid record fuel demand and real-estate challenges.
Costco opened its first standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, featuring 40 fueling positions under a 17,185-square-foot canopy. The move addresses record demand at warehouse pumps, which have strained existing capacity.
The station, built on a former Bed Bath & Beyond site, is exclusive to Costco members. A second standalone location is planned for Honolulu, with both designed to relieve pressure at warehouse gas stations or serve areas where on-site stations are unfeasible.
The expansion reflects Costco’s broader real-estate strategy as land for traditional warehouses becomes harder to acquire. The company is also exploring vertically built store concepts to adapt to market constraints.