After years of waiting, visible progress has finally started on the construction of a massive new Costco store in Gloucester. Located on Eastern Avenue in Barnwood, the long-vacant former Interbrew site is now undergoing land clearance, marking the first real signs of development since plans were approved last December.
This 13,109-square-metre warehouse will bring a substantial economic boost to the area, with an expected creation of up to 250 jobs. The site, which had been an eyesore for seven years, is strategically placed on a bustling road already home to popular businesses like McDonald’s, Starbucks, Lidl, Halfords, The Range, PureGym, and AirHop Adventure and Trampoline Park.
Costco’s planned development also includes an 18-bay petrol station with a tyre-fitting shop, adding to the convenience for shoppers and commuters alike. The company has emphasized the significant investment this new store represents for Gloucester and the surrounding community.
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The site had previously been considered for a pub, a Burger King, and a DIY store, but these plans were ultimately replaced by Costco’s vision. Though the exact opening date is yet to be announced, the start of construction signals that the long-awaited warehouse is steadily drawing closer to completion.
It’s important to note that Costco operates on a membership basis, meaning shopping there is reserved for registered members. Eligibility includes certain occupations, past or present, while individual memberships cost £33.60 per year. Online memberships, priced at £15 annually, allow for home delivery services but do not grant access to warehouse shopping.
Members can bring up to two guests per visit, but only those with a membership card may make purchases. The card features a photo ID to ensure it is non-transferable. Upon exiting, members are asked to show their receipt to maintain inventory accuracy and avoid discrepancies — a process benefiting both Costco and its shoppers.
Costco warehouses typically do not have express checkouts or fitting rooms in order to keep overhead low and pass the savings on to members. Instead, their generous return policy allows customers to return items that don’t fit or meet expectations.
For reference, nearby Costco stores such as the one in Bristol operate Monday to Friday from 11am to 8:30pm, Saturdays from 9:30am to 6:30pm, and Sundays from 11am to 5pm, but hours can vary by membership type. Accepted payment methods include cash, cheque, and all major debit and credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro.
With the Gloucester Costco now moving forward, residents can look forward to a major new retail destination that promises convenience, value, and job opportunities in the near future.