Sam's Club and Walmart make a decision in the United States after Costco's closure

Next Monday, May 26, 2025, Memorial Day is celebrated in the United States. This date is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring members of the Armed Forces who died in active service. This time, Costco announced that it will close its 617 stores across the country to respect this tradition.

Costco's closure is no surprise. The chain usually closes on important holidays like Labor Day or Thanksgiving. However, this announcement caused reactions among its customers, who now have to plan their shopping in advance to avoid inconveniences.

Meanwhile, Walmart and Sam's Club have announced their plans to keep their stores open during Memorial Day. Walmart will operate on its usual schedule, which normally runs from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thus, consumers who can't go to Costco will have another option for their shopping.

Sam's Club and Walmart make the same decision

Sam's Club, which also belongs to the Walmart group, will adjust its hours for that day. Plus members will be able to access the stores from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Regular members will have a schedule from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This measure seeks to provide convenience and flexibility to its members during the holiday.

Memorial Day is one of the days when many businesses close to honor the fallen. In addition to Costco, other services like banks, post offices, and government agencies also suspend their operations. However, several retail chains decide to remain open to meet consumer demand.

Other well-known stores that will operate with regular hours during this day include Kroger, Trader Joe's, Target, Whole Foods, Meijer, Publix, and Albertsons. This offers shoppers multiple options to stock their homes.

Costco's temporary closure could affect its regular customers, especially those who prefer to buy in bulk or take advantage of exclusive offers. Therefore, Walmart and Sam's Club present themselves as viable alternatives for those who need to shop near the holiday.

Both chains have recommended that their customers plan their visits in advance to avoid crowds and facilitate a safer environment. This recommendation is especially relevant considering the increase in the influx of people in supermarkets and stores during holidays.

This situation reflects the competitive dynamics among large retail companies in the United States. While some prioritize closing as a sign of respect for tradition, others choose to remain open to attract more customers. Both decisions have their advantages and respond to different business strategies.

Costco's closure during Memorial Day is a clear demonstration of its commitment to the country's important dates. On the other hand, Walmart and Sam's Club take the opportunity to highlight their presence and provide options for those who need to continue shopping without interruptions.