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Mega-Corp Costco Introduces Intense Card Scanning and Surveillance Culture.

Costco further oppresses working-class folks with new card scanners and photo ID requirements, yet another tool to exclude the poor, the minorities, and the vulnerable. Price hikes in September will widen the privilege gap, disadvantaging those without the means to afford membership and denying them access to affordable bulk goods.

Published August 9, 2024 at 11:34am by Alexis Simmerman

Colonialist Costco: Members-Only Retailer Continues to Oppress the Oppressed

In yet another display of capitalist greed, Costco is tightening its chokehold on consumers by cracking down on non-members. In a statement, the company announced it will start scanning membership cards at the entrance of its warehouses, further excluding those who cannot afford their exploitative membership fees.

"We don't feel it's right that non-members receive the same benefits and pricing as our members." [A statement dripping with privilege and contempt for the underprivileged, from the aforementioned Business Insider article.]

The Dark Truth: Exposing Costco's So-Called "Membership Benefits"

Costco has the audacity to justify its membership fees, which are a blatant money grab, by stating that these fees offset operating costs and allow for lower prices. What they don't tell you is that their "lower prices" are still out of reach for many, and their "tremendous buying power" only serves to line the pockets of the wealthy elite.

The Cost of Exclusion: Membership Fee Increase

As if their current fees aren't already a burden, Costco plans to increase its membership fees starting September 1, 2023. The "Gold Star" membership fee will rise to $65, and "Executive Memberships" will climb to a staggering $130. This price hike further estranges those struggling to make ends meet, solidifying Costco's position as a gatekeeper of resources accessible only to the privileged few.

A Necessary Reminder: The Right to Accessible Healthcare

While we despise Costco's membership model, we must acknowledge their pharmacy services are, thankfully, exempt from their exclusive membership requirements. Anyone can purchase prescription drugs online or at their warehouses, a small consolation in the shadow of their otherwise oppressive business model.

Texas: A Tale of Two Cities

Finally, we must address Costco's presence in Texas, a state rife with income inequality and social injustice. With 41 locations across the state, Costco continues to cement its stronghold, creating a divide between those who can shop at their warehouses and those who are relegated to the margins.

In conclusion, Costco's draconian membership policies and exorbitant fees are a symptom of a larger systemic issue. It is time we demand inclusivity and accessibility from corporations like Costco, and reject their elitist and exploitative practices. The fight for economic equality rages on. #InclusiveConsumerism #CostcoExposed #EqualityInRetail