COSTCO is planning to open 14 new warehouses across the UK in the next two years, The Sun can reveal.
The discount retailer is currently eyeing up 14 locations with hopes to open new stores there "as soon as possible", a source told The Sun.
The Sun understands this could feasibly be completed within the next two years, although some stores could be delayed if the acquisitions take longer than planned.
Costco is currently looking to snap up warehouses to convert in the following locations:
- Chelmsford
- Colchester
- Exeter
- Oxford
- Cambridge
- Maidstone
- Brighton
- Portsmouth
- Bournemouth / Poole
- Preston
- South Glasgow
- South East London
- Wolverhampton / North West Birmingham
- South West Birmingham
It is working with property development company Chase Commercial to find and convert the new sites, but all the purchases will be self-funded.
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The bargain retailer is also set to open a new site in Gloucester after it acquired a major site in Eastern Avenue, just off the M5 motorway last month.
The exact opening date has not yet been confirmed.
Costco currently has 29 stores across the UK including in Leeds, Derby and Croydon.
The 15 proposed new stores would take its total to 44.
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Justin Parker, director at Chase Commercial, said: "We are really pleased to be partnered with Costco to deliver further warehouse clubs for them throughout the UK.
"We are currently seeking 6-12 acre sites to provide 150,000 sq ft buildings with 650 parking spaces and the ability to develop a petrol filling & electric vehicle station".
You can find your nearest Costco by putting your postcode or closest town into its Store Finder tool on its website.
What is Costco and how does it work?
Costco is a chain retail store that sells items in bulk. It also sells items under its own brand, Kirkland.
But not just anyone can shop at Costco – you need to be a member.
To be eligible for membership, you need to have – or be retired from – a certain type of job.
This includes public sector workers such as NHS staff, police officers, teachers and local government workers, as well as those working in banking and finance.
A full list of accepted jobs and qualifications can be found on the Costco website.
Costco membership starts from £15 a year for online shopping only, rising to £33.60 a year for individual members who want access to the warehouses.
There are also trade memberships for businesses starting at £26.40 a year.
Each membership includes a free membership card for spouses and partners who live together.
The retailer offers a range of other services for members, from discounted fuel and tyre installation to mortgage services and pet insurance.
This week, we revealed Costco has abruptly discontinued its photo printing service online and in all of its stores.
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The service allowed customers to create personalised cards, invitations, banners, calendars and posters, as well as print photos for as little as 5p.
Earlier this year, we also reported Costco had launched its first digital membership card, meaning shoppers will now be able to go to stores and swipe their phone instead of carrying a physical card.
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