Costco Makes First Change to Hot Dog Combo in 4 Decades
Newser • • business
Key Points:
- Costco has modified its iconic $1.50 hot dog combo for the first time in over 40 years by allowing customers to choose a 16.9-ounce bottled water instead of the traditional 20-ounce fountain soda, while keeping the price unchanged.
- Previously, customers could only get soda with the hot dog but could fill their cup with water from the fountain; now, a sealed bottled water is officially part of the deal.
- Some customers appreciate the new option as a healthier or more convenient choice, while others prefer the refillable soda for better value.
- Costco has consistently maintained that the hot dog combo price will not increase despite inflation, viewing it as a loss leader supported by profitability in other business areas.
- Leadership has emphasized a commitment to keeping the price steady, with co-founder Jim Sinegal reportedly instructing the company to "figure it out" rather than raise the cost.
