Costco has extended its depot trade-only time slots nationally by one hour following criticism from retailers. NHS employees and trade members can now visit from 9-11am, changing from 9-10am.

The news comes after Mo Razzaq, owner of a Family Shopper in Blantyre, Glasgow, complained on two separate occasions last month that members of the public were being allowed to enter during trading hours.

Costco time-slots under fire from retailers

Costco regional operations director Peter Kelly met Razzaq last week at a depot in Glasgow to discuss the changes.

“Peter understood my concerns,” said Razzaq. “He hopes that by making retailer hours an hour longer, it will help alleviate issues with the public.”

Kelly told Better Retailing there were no claims of the public being allowed in during trading hours, only NHS staff.

Find out more on our coronavirus information hub for retailers