How to Get a Book or Product into CostCo

Costco uses venders from all over the world

Are you a small publisher or independent company that has big dreams of having your product to Costco? This leading consumer warehouse store is an amazing goal for any business to achieve, but there is a tedious process that must be followed to even get the chance. And how often does it happen? Well, I can't tell you statistics because I don't work at Costco, but I can tell you it is TOTALLY viable as my books were on the shelves of Costco after pursuing the buyers in a professional manner. Here's how!

Instructions

1. First, go to your local CostCo and find out if your product, realistically, belongs at this store. If it does, know exactly where it goes (for example - regional guides in books or screwdrivers in tools.) You would be the vendor for this item and need to find the CostCo Buyer.

2. Ask to speak to a manager on duty and introduce yourself and product (don't bring anything with you - just tell them.) Ask them for the name of the buyer for your particular item. For example - buyers who purchase regional titles are different than buyers who purchase dictionaries. The manager may or may not have this information. It really doesn't matter as you just need the phone number for their office and the managers name.

3. Go home and call the number you received for the buyer. Ask for the individual directly. Usually you will get an assistant. Be assertive but polite and ask for the name of the buyer and the procedure for review. Again, make sure you get the assistants name and information.

4. You will be told that you need four of whatever the product to be shipped to their office (this won't be returned) and the spelling of the buyer to address the information. Immediately package up your products and send off the materials to the Northwest for review.

5. Included with the actual product should be any media outlet information that could be useful for the buyer to see how the public responds to the book or product. Also pictures of the product or book in use. A press release is another element that could be added.

6. Once it has arrived at the buyers office, the waiting game has begun. The products or book has a review by several individuals in Costco to see if it made the final cut. When it makes the cut (or even if it doesn't) you should be contacted. However, keep in mind thousands of pieces are reviewed yearly.

7. If your book or product is selected at Costco you will be required to give them a Costco assumed percentage (it varies) and you will be required to pay for shipping - both to the main warehouse and any returns.)

8. Payment is made after returns are finalized for a set period of time and product is being sold.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the name of the store manager to help you find the correct buyer by referencing him/her

• Don't overcall the buyers. Give it 4 weeks before you start contacting after you know your product arrived

• Costco Buyers are also found at all the major trade shows. Start asking the bigger vendors if you can't find a name - everyone will help if you just ask!

Resources

• CostCo