Costco’s Kirkland Signature line is known for its unbeatable combination of quality and value, but what makes it even more impressive is the fact that some of the world’s biggest brands are behind the products. From household essentials to gourmet food items, Kirkland products are made by trusted names you might already know and love. Let’s uncover 13 surprising big-name brands behind Costco’s Kirkland products and see how Costco manages to keep quality high while prices stay low.
1. Coffee
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature House Blend Coffee
Brand Behind It: Starbucks
When you grab a bag of Kirkland Signature House Blend Coffee, you’re actually getting a taste of Starbucks. Brewed from the same quality beans, this rich and smooth blend offers all the flavor of a Starbucks brew at a fraction of the cost. For coffee lovers, it’s a win-win situation—high quality without the high price tag.
2. Diapers
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Diapers
Brand Behind It: Kimberly-Clark (Huggies)
Kirkland Signature Diapers are known for their absorbency and comfort, but what most parents don’t know is they’re made by Kimberly-Clark, the same company that produces Huggies. This partnership means you get reliable, high-quality diapers at a significantly lower price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious families.
3. Tuna
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Solid White Albacore Tuna
Brand Behind It: Bumble Bee Foods
Behind the label of Kirkland Signature’s premium albacore tuna is Bumble Bee Foods, a leader in the seafood industry. Known for its high standards, Bumble Bee ensures Costco’s tuna is packed with flavor, nutrition, and sustainability, making it a pantry staple for many shoppers.
4. Batteries
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Batteries
Brand Behind It: Duracell
When you pick up a pack of Kirkland Signature AA or AAA batteries, you’re actually buying Duracell-made power. With the same long-lasting performance, these batteries are a cost-effective alternative to name-brand Duracell, making them a favorite for everything from remote controls to kids’ toys.
5. Cooking Spray
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Cooking Spray
Brand Behind It: ConAgra (Pam)
ConAgra, the maker of Pam cooking spray, is also behind Costco’s Kirkland Signature Cooking Spray. This means you’re getting the same non-stick, easy-to-use formula at a lower price, whether you’re greasing baking pans or cooking up a healthy stir-fry.
6. Ice Cream
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream
Brand Behind It: Humboldt Creamery
Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, Kirkland Signature’s Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream is crafted by Humboldt Creamery, a trusted name in dairy products. The premium ingredients and slow-churned process deliver a truly indulgent experience, making this a favorite dessert for Costco shoppers.
7. Pet Food
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Pet Food
Brand Behind It: Diamond Pet Foods
Pet owners can trust Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Pet Food to provide quality nutrition for their furry friends because it’s made by Diamond Pet Foods, a well-respected name in the pet food industry. With high-quality ingredients at an affordable price, it’s a top choice for budget-conscious pet parents.
8. Cranberry Juice
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Brand Behind It: Ocean Spray
Kirkland’s Cranberry Juice Cocktail is produced by none other than Ocean Spray, the cranberry experts. This collaboration ensures you’re getting the same tangy, refreshing taste with a trusted level of quality, all while saving money at Costco.
9. Bottled Water
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Purified Bottled Water
Brand Behind It: Niagara Bottling
Kirkland Signature Purified Bottled Water, which is widely available and highly affordable, is produced by Niagara Bottling. Known for their efficient bottling practices and commitment to quality, Niagara ensures Kirkland bottled water is pure and refreshing.
10. Contact Lenses
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Brand Behind It: CooperVision
Kirkland Signature’s Daily Disposable Contact Lenses offer both comfort and clarity, thanks to their production by CooperVision, one of the world’s leading contact lens manufacturers. This partnership allows Costco members to enjoy top-tier lenses without the premium price.
11. Green Tea
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Green Tea
Brand Behind It: Ito En
Kirkland Signature’s Green Tea is crafted by Ito En, a renowned Japanese tea producer known for its high-quality leaves and attention to detail. This collaboration brings authentic, refreshing green tea to Costco shoppers at an accessible price.
12. Carrot Juice
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature 100% Carrot Juice
Brand Behind It: Bolthouse Farms
Bolthouse Farms, known for its premium juices and smoothies, produces Kirkland Signature’s 100% Carrot Juice. Made with fresh, high-quality carrots, this juice offers a nutritious and delicious option for health-conscious shoppers at a lower cost than the branded version.
13. Kirkland Big Red Cups
Kirkland Product: Kirkland Signature Red Plastic Cups
Brand Behind It: Chinet
Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a holiday party, Kirkland Signature Red Plastic Cups, made by Chinet, are the go-to choice for many Costco members. These durable, party-ready cups are produced with the same high standards as Chinet’s iconic disposable dinnerware, but without the brand-name price.
Final Say
Costco’s Kirkland Signature line proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. By partnering with some of the biggest names in various industries—like Starbucks, Duracell, and Ocean Spray—Costco can offer top-tier products at unbeatable prices. These collaborations allow shoppers to get the best of both worlds: premium products without the premium cost. Next time you pick up a Kirkland item, remember there’s likely a big-name brand behind it, working to bring you the quality you expect from Costco.
