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COST 10-K Annual Reports

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW - 32 annual reports

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 2025

Oct 8, 2025

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) has reported strong performance for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2025, with net sales increasing by 8% to $269.9 billion. This growth was driven by a 6% increase in comparable sales, reflecting higher shopping frequency and a modest increase in average ticket size. Membership fee revenue also saw a significant 10% jump, boosted by new member acquisitions and fee increases, underscoring the continued loyalty and value proposition for Costco members. The company expanded its physical footprint by opening 24 net new warehouses, contributing to overall sales growth. Despite inflationary pressures impacting merchandise costs, Costco managed to improve its gross margin percentage by 20 basis points, partly due to strong performance in fresh foods and its co-branded credit card program. Net income rose by 10% to $8.1 billion, translating to $18.21 per diluted share. The company also demonstrated a commitment to shareholders through a 12% increase in its quarterly cash dividend.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 1, 2024

Oct 9, 2024

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) reported its fiscal year 2024 results, demonstrating continued growth and operational resilience. The company expanded its global footprint by opening 30 new warehouses, contributing to a 5% increase in net sales, reaching $249.6 billion. This growth was driven by both comparable sales increases and contributions from new store openings, despite a slightly shorter fiscal year. Membership fee revenue also saw a healthy 5% rise, reflecting strong member loyalty and successful upgrades to Executive memberships. Key financial highlights include a 17% increase in net income to $7.4 billion and a significant improvement in gross margin percentage, up 35 basis points. This margin expansion was bolstered by contributions from ancillary businesses like e-commerce and gasoline, as well as operational efficiencies and the absence of prior-year one-time charges. The company also returned substantial value to shareholders through a special cash dividend and a 14% increase in its quarterly cash dividend, underscoring its financial strength and commitment to shareholder returns. Despite ongoing investments in wage increases and operational improvements, Costco maintained its focus on providing value to its members.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 3, 2023

Oct 11, 2023

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) reported strong performance in its 10-K filing for the fiscal year ending September 3, 2023. The company demonstrated robust revenue growth, driven by both new warehouse openings and an increase in comparable sales. Membership fee revenue also saw a significant rise, indicating sustained member loyalty and a growing member base, particularly with the strong penetration of its Executive membership tier. The company effectively managed gross margins despite inflationary pressures, aided by a smaller LIFO charge and performance in core merchandise categories. While selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased due to wage growth and lower sales growth in certain areas, overall profitability remained strong with a notable increase in net income. Costco also continued its capital allocation strategy through share repurchases and a dividend increase. The company's expansive global footprint, with a growing number of warehouses and continued international expansion, positions it for ongoing growth. Management expresses confidence in the company's liquidity and ability to meet its capital requirements.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 28, 2022

Oct 5, 2022

Costco Wholesale Corporation's (COST) 2022 10-K filing showcases a strong year of growth, with net sales increasing by 16% to $222.7 billion, driven by a robust 14% increase in comparable sales and the opening of 26 new warehouses. Membership fee revenue also saw a healthy 9% rise, indicating continued member loyalty and growth. Despite inflationary pressures impacting merchandise costs, which led to a decrease in gross margin percentage, the company effectively managed selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, which decreased as a percentage of net sales. This efficiency, coupled with solid sales growth, resulted in a 17% increase in net income to $5.84 billion, or $13.14 per diluted share. The company continues to expand its global footprint, with strategic investments in new warehouses and e-commerce capabilities. Costco's business model, centered on offering low prices and high value to its members, remains a key differentiator in a competitive retail landscape. The report highlights the company's commitment to its employees, strategic expansion plans, and its resilience in navigating supply chain challenges and economic uncertainties. Investors can find reassurance in Costco's consistent sales growth, effective cost management, and strong membership base.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 29, 2021

Oct 6, 2021

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) reported strong performance for the fiscal year ending August 29, 2021, characterized by robust net sales growth of 18% to $192.05 billion. This increase was driven by a solid 16% rise in comparable sales and contributions from newly opened warehouses. Membership fee revenue also saw a healthy increase of 9%, reflecting continued member loyalty and upgrades to the premium Executive membership. The company effectively managed expenses, with Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) costs decreasing as a percentage of net sales by 40 basis points, attributed to sales leverage and reduced COVID-19 related wage expenses. Despite a slight decrease in gross margin percentage by seven basis points, largely due to a shift in sales mix towards ancillary services, overall profitability improved significantly. Net income grew by 25% to $5.007 billion, with diluted earnings per share rising to $11.27. Costco continued its strategic expansion, opening 22 new warehouses during the fiscal year, and demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns through special and quarterly cash dividends, alongside an active share repurchase program. The company also noted ongoing impacts from supply chain constraints due to the COVID-19 pandemic but maintained a positive outlook on liquidity and capital resources.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 30, 2020

Oct 7, 2020

Costco Wholesale Corporation's (COST) 2020 10-K filing reveals a robust financial performance, marked by strong net sales growth of 9% to $163.2 billion, primarily driven by an 8% increase in comparable sales and contributions from newly opened warehouses. The company demonstrated resilience despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted certain ancillary businesses but was offset by strong performance in core merchandise categories like food and sundries, and fresh foods. Key to Costco's sustained success is its membership model, which saw membership fee revenue increase by 6% to $3.5 billion, supported by high renewal rates of 91% in the U.S. and Canada and 88% worldwide. The company also strategically managed its operating expenses, with SG&A as a percentage of net sales decreasing by 3 basis points, and saw an 18-basis point increase in gross margin percentage. Despite incremental costs associated with COVID-19, such as increased wages and sanitation, the company reported a 9% increase in net income to $4.0 billion, translating to diluted earnings per share of $9.02. Significant strategic investments include the acquisitions of Innovel Solutions and a stake in Navitus Health Solutions, bolstering logistics and pharmacy benefit management capabilities.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 1, 2019

Oct 11, 2019

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2019 10-K filing reveals a company demonstrating steady growth and operational efficiency. The company reported an 8% increase in net sales, reaching $149.35 billion, driven by a 6% rise in comparable sales and contributions from new warehouse openings. Membership fee revenue also saw a healthy 7% increase, underscoring the loyalty and value proposition offered to its member base, with global renewal rates remaining robust at 88%. The company continues to execute its growth strategy by opening new warehouses, including its first in China, and investing in its e-commerce capabilities. Financially, Costco maintained strong operational control, with selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales showing only a marginal increase. The effective tax rate significantly decreased due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, contributing to a 17% increase in net income, which reached $3.66 billion, or $8.26 per diluted share. The company also returned capital to shareholders through increased dividends and initiated a new $4 billion share repurchase program, signaling confidence in its financial health and future prospects. The company also successfully remediated a previously identified material weakness in internal IT controls.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 2, 2018

Oct 26, 2018

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2018 10-K report details a year of robust growth, with net sales increasing by 10% to $138.4 billion, driven by a strong 9% comparable sales increase and the opening of 25 new warehouses. Membership fee revenue also saw a significant 10% rise to $3.1 billion, bolstered by a prior year's annual fee increase and continued member sign-ups, highlighting the stickiness of Costco's membership model. The company's operational efficiency is reflected in a 24 basis point decrease in SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales. Despite a 29 basis point decrease in gross margin percentage, largely due to the impact of gasoline price inflation and a shift towards lower-margin ancillary businesses, the overall financial health remains strong. Net income attributable to Costco grew by 17% to $3.13 billion, or $7.09 per diluted share. Investors should note the ongoing warehouse expansion, with plans for approximately 20 net new warehouses in the upcoming year, and a significant remaining authorization of $2.43 billion for share repurchases, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders. A key point of attention for investors is the identified material weakness in internal IT controls related to user access and program change management, which the company is actively working to remediate.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 3, 2017

Oct 18, 2017

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2017 10-K filing highlights a year of consistent growth, with net sales reaching $126.2 billion, an increase of 9% year-over-year. This growth was primarily driven by a 4% increase in comparable sales, the opening of new warehouses (26 net new in 2017), and the benefit of an extra week in the fiscal year. Membership fee revenue also saw a robust 8% increase, signaling strong member loyalty and the positive impact of recent membership fee adjustments in the U.S. and Canada. The company continued its international expansion, with a notable increase in warehouses in Canada and other international markets. While gross margin percentage saw a slight decrease, this was largely attributed to the impact of gasoline prices and changes in sales mix. Importantly, selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased, benefiting from improved terms in the U.S. co-branded credit card arrangement. Net income saw a significant 14% increase to $2.68 billion, or $6.08 per diluted share, reflecting operational efficiencies and a favorable tax benefit. Costco also demonstrated a commitment to returning capital to shareholders through dividends, including a substantial special cash dividend, and ongoing share repurchase programs.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Aug 28, 2016

Oct 21, 2016

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2016 10-K filing highlights a year of modest sales growth, primarily driven by new warehouse openings, while comparable sales remained flat. The company navigated external pressures such as currency fluctuations and declining gasoline prices, which impacted reported sales and margins. Despite these challenges, Costco demonstrated resilience through a 4% increase in membership fee revenue, underscoring the strength of its subscription model. The company also continued its strategic expansion, opening 29 net new warehouses globally. Profitability saw a slight decrease due to the aforementioned factors and investments in information systems modernization and employee compensation, but the core business operations, particularly merchandise, showed underlying strength with a gross margin improvement when excluding gasoline impacts.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 28, 2016

Oct 12, 2016

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) filed its 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 28, 2016, detailing its business operations, financial performance, and strategic outlook. The company continued its expansion, opening 29 net new warehouses globally, bringing the total to 715, with significant growth noted in the U.S. Despite a 2% increase in net sales to $116.1 billion, comparable sales remained flat, impacted by currency fluctuations and lower gasoline prices. Membership fee revenue saw a healthy 4% increase, underscoring the loyalty and value proposition for its members. The company highlighted its strategy of offering high-quality merchandise at low prices through efficient operations and a limited SKU selection, a model that proved resilient amidst a competitive retail landscape. Financially, the company reported net income of $2.35 billion, a slight decrease from the prior year, primarily due to a prior year tax benefit. Gross margin percentage improved due to the impact of gasoline price deflation, though selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of sales also increased, partly due to IT modernization investments. Costco maintained a strong liquidity position, with substantial cash and investments, and continued its capital expenditure program for new warehouses and infrastructure. The report also detailed risks such as dependence on U.S. and Canadian markets, competition, and the importance of maintaining membership loyalty.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 30, 2015

Oct 14, 2015

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) presents its 2015 10-K filing, detailing a year of steady growth and strategic initiatives. The company continued its expansion by opening 23 net new warehouses, contributing to a 3% increase in net sales to $113.7 billion. This growth was driven by sales at newly opened locations and a 1% rise in comparable warehouse sales, despite headwinds from foreign currency fluctuations and lower gasoline prices. Membership fees, a crucial revenue stream, saw a 4% increase, reflecting strong member loyalty and upgrades to the Executive membership program, which consistently outperforms standard memberships. The company's core strategy of offering high-quality merchandise at low prices, coupled with operational efficiencies and a robust private-label offering (Kirkland Signature), continues to resonate with its expanding customer base. While facing intense competition and general economic uncertainties, Costco's business model remains resilient, supported by a strong balance sheet and consistent cash flow generation, enabling ongoing investments in expansion and shareholder returns.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 2014

Oct 15, 2014

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2014 10-K filing highlights a year of steady growth and operational efficiency. The company continued its expansion, opening 30 new warehouses globally, underscoring its commitment to increasing its physical footprint. Net sales saw a 7% increase, reaching $110.2 billion, driven by a 4% rise in comparable warehouse sales and contributions from new locations, despite headwinds from foreign currency fluctuations. Membership fees, a crucial recurring revenue stream, grew by 6% to $2.4 billion, reflecting strong member loyalty with renewal rates of 91% in the U.S. and Canada and 87% worldwide. Costco's business model, focused on offering low prices on a limited selection of high-quality merchandise, continues to resonate with consumers. The company manages costs effectively, though it notes ongoing investments in information systems and increased employee benefit costs. While facing a competitive retail landscape and general economic uncertainties, Costco demonstrates resilience through its strong membership base, efficient operations, and strategic expansion. The company's financial health appears robust, supported by consistent operating cash flows and a disciplined approach to capital expenditures and shareholder returns.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 1, 2013

Oct 16, 2013

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) filed its 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2013. The company reported strong net sales growth of 6%, reaching $102.87 billion, driven by a consistent 6% increase in comparable warehouse sales across its domestic and international operations. Membership fees also saw a healthy 10% increase, signaling strong member loyalty and effective fee adjustments. Costco continues its expansion strategy, opening 26 new warehouses in the fiscal year, contributing to overall sales growth. Despite increased selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, partly due to investments in information systems, net income grew by 19% to $2.04 billion, or $4.63 per diluted share. A notable event was the special cash dividend of $7.00 per share paid in December 2012, funded partly by a significant debt issuance. The company maintains a solid financial position with ample cash flow to support ongoing operations and future capital expenditures.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 2, 2012

Oct 19, 2012

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2012 Form 10-K details a financially robust year characterized by strong sales growth, driven by a 7% increase in comparable store sales and the successful integration of its Mexico operations. The company demonstrated effective cost management, with selling, general, and administrative expenses improving as a percentage of net sales. Membership fees saw a healthy increase, reflecting growth in member base and a recent price adjustment. Profitability improved, with net income rising by 16.9% and a corresponding increase in diluted earnings per share. Costco also continued its commitment to shareholder returns through dividends and share repurchases, while strategically investing in its global warehouse network. Key operational highlights include the full consolidation of Costco Mexico following the acquisition of the remaining 50% interest, which is expected to contribute to future growth. The company's membership model remains a cornerstone of its business, with high renewal rates indicating strong member loyalty. Strategic investments in technology and operational efficiencies are evident, positioning Costco for continued success in a competitive retail landscape. The report also addresses various risk factors, including competition, economic volatility, and operational challenges, underscoring the company's proactive approach to risk management.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 28, 2011

Oct 14, 2011

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2011 10-K filing highlights a strong year of growth and operational performance, driven by a 14.2% increase in net sales to $87.05 billion. This growth was primarily fueled by a robust 10% increase in comparable warehouse sales, alongside contributions from 20 net new warehouse openings. The company demonstrated effective cost management, with selling, general, and administrative expenses decreasing as a percentage of net sales by 31 basis points. Membership fees also saw a healthy 10.4% increase, boosted by higher Executive membership penetration. Despite a slight decrease in gross margin percentage, primarily due to a LIFO inventory charge and the inclusion of lower-margin gasoline sales, net income attributable to Costco grew by 12.2% to $1.46 billion, resulting in diluted earnings per share of $3.30. The company also continued its commitment to shareholder returns through share repurchases and a notable increase in its quarterly cash dividend. Furthermore, the filing marks the initial consolidation of Costco's Mexico joint venture, which had a minor impact on total assets and revenue but no effect on net income per share, reflecting the company's expanding international presence. The leadership transition plan, with the announced retirement of CEO Jim Sinegal and the promotion of Craig Jelinek, was also a significant event disclosed.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 29, 2010

Oct 18, 2010

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) reported strong performance for the fiscal year ended August 29, 2010, with net sales increasing 9.1% to $76.3 billion, driven by a 7% rise in comparable store sales and the opening of new warehouses. The company highlighted a 10.3% increase in membership fees to $1.7 billion, benefiting from higher penetration of its Executive Membership program and a solid renewal rate of 88%. Net income saw a significant 20% jump to $1.3 billion, translating to diluted earnings per share of $2.92, up from $2.47 in the prior year. Costco's business model, characterized by low gross margins, high sales volume, and efficient operations, proved resilient amidst economic challenges. The company continued its expansion, planning for approximately 31 new warehouses in fiscal year 2011. Capital expenditures are expected to be around $1.6 billion, funded primarily through operating cash flows and existing cash reserves. The company also continued its share repurchase program, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 30, 2009

Oct 16, 2009

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2009 10-K filing reveals a challenging year marked by a 1.5% decrease in net sales to $69.9 billion, largely due to a 4% drop in comparable warehouse sales. This decline was exacerbated by significant gasoline price deflation and unfavorable foreign currency movements, which collectively impacted sales by approximately $4.6 billion. Despite the sales dip, the company maintained a strong membership base with a renewal rate of 87% and saw an increase in Executive Membership penetration. Key financial metrics indicate a 15% decrease in net income to $1.09 billion, or $2.47 per diluted share. This was influenced by a mix of factors including increased SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales due to lower sales volume and higher healthcare costs, partially offset by an improvement in gross margin as a percentage of net sales. The company continued its commitment to shareholder returns by increasing its quarterly cash dividend and actively repurchasing shares. Costco's robust balance sheet, ample liquidity, and strategic approach to managing operational costs and capital expenditures position it to navigate the prevailing economic conditions.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Aug 31, 2008

Oct 17, 2008

Costco Wholesale Corporation filed an amendment to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008, primarily to correct a presentation in its Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The company demonstrated robust performance with a 12.5% increase in net sales to $70.98 billion, driven by an 8% comparable warehouse sales growth and the opening of 24 new warehouses. Membership fees saw a healthy 14.7% rise to $1.51 billion, bolstered by new memberships and increased Executive membership penetration. Gross margin remained stable at 10.53%, while Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased. Net income grew by 18.5% to $1.28 billion, or $2.89 per diluted share. The company also continued its commitment to shareholders by repurchasing approximately $886.9 million of its common stock and increasing its quarterly cash dividend. Despite general economic uncertainties, Costco's business model appeared resilient, with strong operational execution and continued expansion.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 2008

Oct 16, 2008

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2008 10-K filing reveals a strong fiscal year with robust sales growth and continued expansion. Net sales increased by 12.5% to $70.98 billion, driven by an 8% increase in comparable warehouse sales and the opening of 24 net new warehouses. Membership fees saw a significant rise of 14.7% to $1.51 billion, bolstered by new member sign-ups and increased adoption of the higher-tier Executive Membership program. The company's operational efficiency is highlighted by a slight improvement in gross margin and a reduction in selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of net sales. Financially, net income grew by 18.5% to $1.28 billion, or $2.89 per diluted share. The company also continued its commitment to shareholder returns through a 10% increase in its quarterly cash dividend and significant share repurchases totaling $886.9 million. Despite some investment-related impairments due to market volatility, the company's liquidity remains strong, with substantial cash and cash equivalents. The report also details ongoing legal proceedings, primarily related to labor and employment practices, which the company believes will not have a material adverse effect on its financial position.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Sep 2, 2007

Dec 21, 2007

Costco Wholesale Corporation's (COST) 2007 10-K filing, amended to correct minor dating errors in the auditor's report, provides a comprehensive overview of its financial performance and operational highlights for the fiscal year ended September 2, 2007. The company demonstrated robust revenue growth, reaching over $64.4 billion, driven by net sales and a significant contribution from membership fees. Operating income remained strong, reflecting effective cost management despite investments in expansion and preopening expenses. Financially, Costco maintained a solid balance sheet with total assets exceeding $19.6 billion. Key financial activities included substantial investments in property and equipment, indicating continued expansion, and significant share repurchases demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders. The company's cash flow from operations remained healthy, supporting its investing and financing activities. Investors can note the consistent increase in dividends per share and the company's strong position in the retail landscape.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 2, 2007

Oct 25, 2007

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2007 10-K report showcases a company demonstrating consistent growth and operational efficiency, despite facing typical retail sector challenges. The company reported a 7.0% increase in net sales to $63.09 billion, driven by a 6% rise in comparable warehouse sales and the opening of 30 new warehouses. Membership fees saw a significant 10.5% increase, reaching $1.31 billion, largely due to a prior year price hike. Despite a slight decrease in gross margin percentage and an increase in SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales, the company maintained a strong financial position. Key financial highlights include a net income of $1.08 billion, with earnings per diluted share of $2.37. The company also actively engaged in share repurchases, spending approximately $1.98 billion to buy back 36.4 million shares. Costco's operational strategy, focusing on low prices, limited selection, and high inventory turnover, continues to be a core strength. The company also highlighted its expanding ancillary businesses, such as gas stations and pharmacies, which contribute to member loyalty and shopping frequency.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 3, 2006

Nov 17, 2006

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2006 10-K report details a strong fiscal year marked by consistent sales growth and expansion. Net sales increased by 13.7% to $58.96 billion, driven by an 8% increase in comparable warehouse sales and the opening of 25 net new warehouses. The company also saw a healthy increase in membership fees, up 10.7% to $1.19 billion, reflecting successful membership growth and a recent $5 price increase on most U.S. and Canada memberships. Financially, Costco demonstrated robust operating income and net income growth, reaching $1.1 billion in net income, or $2.30 per diluted share. The company continued its commitment to shareholder returns through increased dividends and significant share repurchases, spending approximately $1.5 billion on buybacks. Costco's operational efficiency remains a key strength, with SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales improving slightly, demonstrating effective cost management despite investments in growth and compensation.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 28, 2005

Nov 10, 2005

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2005 10-K report highlights a year of robust growth and financial strength. The company achieved a 10% increase in net sales, reaching $51.86 billion, driven by a 7% rise in comparable warehouse sales and the addition of 16 new warehouses. Membership fees also saw a healthy 11.6% increase, underscoring strong member loyalty and program penetration. Financially, net income grew by a significant 20.5% to $1.06 billion, or $2.18 per diluted share. This growth was achieved despite a slight decrease in gross margin percentage, which was attributed to a shift in sales mix towards lower-margin items like gasoline and increased costs associated with the Executive Membership program. The company also demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns through a quarterly cash dividend increase and a substantial share repurchase program, signaling confidence in its financial stability and future prospects.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 29, 2004

Nov 12, 2004

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 2004 10-K report indicates a strong financial performance with a 13.1% increase in net sales, reaching $47.1 billion. This growth was driven by a comparable warehouse sales increase of 10% and the successful opening of 20 new warehouses. Membership fees also saw a healthy rise of 12.7%, attributed to new member acquisitions, increased penetration of the Executive Membership program, and high renewal rates. The company achieved net income growth of 22.4%, totaling $882.4 million, or $1.85 per diluted share. This financial strength allowed Costco to initiate its first quarterly cash dividend in fiscal year 2004, signaling a commitment to returning value to shareholders. The company also demonstrated effective cost management, with improvements in gross margin and a reduction in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales. Expansion remains a key focus, with plans for approximately 40 new warehouses in fiscal year 2005 across the U.S., Canada, and international markets.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 2003

Nov 21, 2003

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) filed its 2003 10-K report, highlighting continued growth and operational efficiency. The company reported robust net sales of $41.7 billion for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2003, a 10% increase year-over-year, driven by comparable warehouse sales and the opening of 23 net new warehouses. Net income rose 3% to $721 million, translating to $1.53 per diluted share. The company's membership model continues to be a strong contributor, with revenue from membership fees and other sources increasing by 11% and member renewal rates holding steady at 86%. Costco's strategy of offering a limited selection of high-quality merchandise at low prices, combined with efficient operations and rapid inventory turnover, remains effective in driving sales volume and profitability despite lower gross margins compared to traditional retailers. The company also continues its disciplined expansion, with plans for further warehouse openings in the U.S., Canada, and internationally.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Sep 1, 2002

Nov 22, 2002

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) filed its annual report for the fiscal year ended September 1, 2002, showcasing robust growth and a strong operational model. The company demonstrated an 11% increase in net sales, reaching $37.99 billion, and a 16% rise in net income to $700 million. This performance was driven by consistent sales growth at existing locations and the successful integration of 29 new warehouses opened during the fiscal year. Key to Costco's success remains its membership model, with strong renewal rates and a growing penetration of the Executive Membership program contributing to a 17% increase in membership fee revenue. The company also highlighted improvements in gross margin percentage due to better merchandise sourcing and operational efficiencies, though this was partially offset by the costs associated with the Executive Membership reward program. Costco continues its strategic expansion, with plans to open additional warehouses in the U.S., Canada, and internationally, funded through a combination of operating cash flow and existing credit facilities.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 29, 1999

Nov 24, 1999

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 1999 10-K filing, covering the fiscal year ending August 28, 1999, indicates a company focused on its core membership warehouse club model. The filing suggests continued operational execution and expansion within its established strategy. Investors would likely be interested in the company's ability to maintain its competitive advantage through its low-price, high-volume model, which relies heavily on membership fees for profitability. While specific financial figures and detailed operational metrics are not directly extractable from the provided text, the context of an annual report implies a review of the past year's performance, including sales, profitability, and any significant strategic initiatives. The filing likely details the company's retail operations, inventory management, and efforts to control costs, all crucial for its success in the competitive retail landscape.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Aug 31, 1997

Mar 18, 1998

This 10-K/A filing from Costco Wholesale Corp for the period ending August 30, 1997, represents an amendment to their annual report. While the provided text is primarily navigation and directory information from the SEC EDGAR system, it indicates that Costco was a publicly traded company with reporting obligations. Investors would typically look to the full 10-K report for details on financial performance, operational strategies, risk factors, management discussion, and audited financial statements to assess the company's health and future prospects. Without the actual financial data from the 10-K, a deep dive into Costco's performance for fiscal year 1997 is not possible. However, as a major retailer operating in 1997, key areas of interest for investors would have included sales growth, membership trends, inventory management, competitive landscape (especially from other warehouse clubs and traditional retailers), and any significant capital expenditures or expansion plans. Understanding the company's revenue streams, cost structure, and profitability margins would be crucial for evaluating its investment potential at that time.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 31, 1997

Nov 10, 1997

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 1997 10-K filing for the fiscal year ending August 30, 1997, reveals a company in a significant growth phase. While specific financial figures are not detailed in the provided text, the filing indicates the company's ongoing operations and regulatory compliance. As a wholesale club retailer, Costco's business model likely centered on high sales volume and low prices, attracting a loyal membership base. Investors would look to this filing for insights into the company's strategic direction, operational efficiency, and market position. The filing is crucial for understanding Costco's performance in the competitive retail landscape of the late 1990s and its ability to deliver value to shareholders. The absence of detailed financial tables in the provided excerpt means further analysis would require accessing the full report to ascertain revenue, profitability, debt levels, and cash flow.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Sep 3, 1995

Mar 15, 1996

Costco Wholesale Corporation's 1995 fiscal year-end 10-K filing reveals a company in a strong growth phase, continuing its expansion and solidifying its membership warehouse club model. The filing reflects the company's strategic focus on delivering value to its members through low prices and high-quality merchandise. Investors can infer a commitment to operational efficiency and customer loyalty, key drivers for sustained performance in the retail sector. While specific financial metrics are not detailed in the provided filing snippets, the context of a 10-K/A (amendment) suggests that the company is providing updated or corrected information for the period ending September 2, 1995. This implies a dynamic business environment and a diligent approach to financial reporting. Investors should look for details regarding sales growth, membership trends, profitability, and any strategic initiatives or risks discussed in the full report.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW Annual Report, Year Ended Aug 28, 1994

Nov 17, 1994

Costco Wholesale Corporation filed its 10-K annual report for the fiscal year ending August 27, 1994. The filing indicates a company in a growth phase, likely focused on expanding its warehouse club model. Investors would be interested in the company's financial performance, operational efficiency, and strategies for continued market penetration and profitability in the retail sector. Key areas to scrutinize would include revenue growth, membership trends, inventory turnover, and any significant capital expenditures or debt. Understanding Costco's competitive positioning and management's outlook on future growth opportunities and potential challenges would be crucial for assessing the investment's long-term viability.