Costco Code Of Ethics Paper

Costco Wholesale is a multi-billion dollar global retailer with warehouse club operations in over 700 locations in eleven different countries. Costco is a membership warehouse club, individual customers or businesses who would like to shop their, must first buy a membership that ranges from $60 - $120. There are four different types of membership options: Gold Star, Gold Star Executive, Business, and Business Executive. The Gold Star, and Gold Star Executive memberships are for individual households, and the Business, and Business Executive memberships are for businesses. Costco provides a wide selection of quality-brand merchandise, plus specialty departments and exclusive member services.

Costco’s first location, opened in 1976 under the

Costco has five main principles, their first rule is to obey the law “we must conduct our business in total compliance with the laws of every community where we do business” (The Costco Story). Costco’s second rule in their code of ethics is to take care of their members. Costco believes that their members have extended a trust to Costco by paying a fee to shop with them, and they will only succeed if they do not violate their members trust. Costco’s third rule is to take care of their employees, “our employees are our most important asset...we are committed to providing them with rewarding challenges and ample opportunities for their personal and career growth” (The Costco Story). Costcos fourth rule is to respect their suppliers, Costco believes that, their suppliers are their partners in business, and for them to prosper as a company, their suppliers must prosper with them. Costco’s fifth and final principle is to reward their suppliers, which they believe is their most ultimate

Costco has integrated this concept into their business in multiple ways. Costco takes a leading role in the communities in which they do business, believing it is important to give back to those who contribute to their success. Costco is well known for its generosity and community service and has won many awards for its philanthropy. The company encourages its employees to take an active role in volunteering and sponsors many opportunities for employees to help others. Costco budgets 1 percent of their pretax profits for charitable donations. In 2016 Costco contributed over $34 million to various organizations worldwide including the United Way, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, the American Red Cross and International Red Cross, the Backpack Program, Costco Volunteer Reading Tutor Program and international disaster relief. One of Costco’s more popular charitable programs is the Costco’s Fresh Start Backpack Program, the retailer distributes backpacks to local schools in their communities. Started in 1993, Costco has donated nearly 3.5 million bags to children around the