In advance of an increase in membership fees, Costco will clamp down on nonmember purchases. In a statement the company noted that scanning devices will be installed at the entrances of warehouses to verify membership. The current credit cards issued by the company include an image of the cardholder to confirm eligibilit .
Costco has tested the verification system that appears to be acceptable to members based on the principle of “fairness in benefits and pricing”. Costco is also requiring those entering warehouses to be either a member or accompanied by a member and valid cardholder, obviating the improper use of membership cards.