Costco is known for offering great deals on bulk items, and shoppers often rave about the value and quality of Kirkland Signature products. But not every product lives up to the hype. Here are three Costco items that are popular but have disappointed many customers, showing that bigger isn’t always better.
1. Kirkland Signature Protein Bars $19.99/20 bars
Kirkland Signature Protein Bars are a staple in many fitness-focused households, offering a high-protein snack option in a variety of flavors. They’re marketed as a convenient, low-cost alternative to popular brands like Quest Bars. Each bar contains around 21 grams of protein, 200 calories, and 1 gram of sugar.
While the bars deliver on protein content, their taste and texture are divisive. Many customers complain that the bars have a chalky texture and an artificial flavor that’s hard to ignore. Though they’re a bargain compared to pricier competitors, their flavor fails to satisfy, leaving shoppers regretting bulk purchases.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a satisfying protein bar, consider investing in smaller packs of higher-quality bars before committing to Costco’s bulk offering. Taste-testing a few options from other brands might save you from ending up with a massive box of bars you don’t enjoy.
2. Gift Cards (Varied prices)
Costco offers gift card packs for various restaurants, retailers, and services at a discount, typically saving you 10-20% on the card’s face value. This deal is marketed as a way to stretch your dollar further while gifting or dining out.
While it seems like a no-brainer, the limitations of gift cards can outweigh the savings. Costco often stocks cards for specific restaurants or businesses that might not be convenient for every shopper. Additionally, the terms and expiration dates can vary, making it tricky to find the right occasion to use them. If the business goes out of style or out of business, your deal quickly becomes a loss.
Recommendation
Before buying, make sure the gift card matches your lifestyle or the recipient’s preferences. For some, the discount may not be worth the potential inconvenience or limitations. Opting for more flexible options like Visa or Amazon gift cards could offer better value in the long run.
3. Tires (Prices vary by size and brand)
Costco’s tire center offers a selection of popular brands, including Michelin and Bridgestone, often bundled with free services like installation, balancing, and tire rotation. The price point is appealing, especially when combined with occasional discounts.
Though the prices may seem unbeatable, many customers find the experience lacking. Common complaints include long wait times, limited availability of certain tire models, and frustrating appointment scheduling. Furthermore, some customers have reported subpar customer service, with staff rushing through installations and overlooking key details.
Recommendation
If you value convenience and speedy service, it may be worth checking out local tire shops that can provide a more personalized experience. While Costco’s prices are competitive, the potential hassle of dealing with busy tire centers could diminish the appeal of the initial savings.
Final Say
Costco has its fair share of great deals, but these three products don’t quite live up to the hype. When shopping at Costco, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons before making bulk purchases—sometimes a little research can save you from overhyped items that fall short of expectations.
