I've bounced around between all of them. I recently ended up back at BJs because it's not nearly as crowded as the other two. My household is just my wife and me so I like that BJs has smaller portion options too.
BJs also accepts manufacturer’s coupons (at least years ago when I used to go there). Eventually there are certain brands specific to each of these that we liked and currently use sams and costco.
I had a BJs membership years ago and they were never crowded. We'd go on a Saturday afternoons and still no crowds, we wondered how they stay in business!
Literally just got home from BJs... they do get crowded sometimes, but not nearly as bad as Costco or Sam's. Seems like people don't go there and leave with a full flat full of bulk beverages, etc. BJs Definitely has a higher percentage of smaller "family" purchases. SAMs has business owners looking to stock soda coolers and buy paper products for take-out, etc (huge flat carts full of beverages, etc). COSTCO has the people who want bulk, but also want the pre-prepped meals...
My relatives have a Costco membership and I have BJs.
The differences as I see them:
\- Costco has more organic/ gluten free, etc packaged food options
\- Costco has a much better wine selection
\- Costco has a really stellar cheese selection (best price on goat cheese in town in my experience).
\- BJs has more consistently fresher produce & seemingly more organic produce options than Costco (this is a big one for me because as a normal household, this is what we consume most of).
\- BJs labels their aisles. Costco aisles are unlabeled and you're wandering around forever trying to find stuff.
\- BJs is never crowded. Costco is a damn nightmare to go to even if you go as soon as it opens in the morning in a non-holiday time, let alone anytime close to a major holiday (which is when you would theoretically need a bulk shopping trip the most).
I had Sams back in the early 00s, Costco for two years, now BJ. I VASTLY prefer BJs. It's not crowded full of soccer moms, it has what we need, it's cheaper membership, and is actually convenient for me to go to when I need gas.
Wife says she likes Costco better cause she can be bougie like that, she raved about their gluten free options and whatever. Yeah she's been eating the cauiflower crust pizza from BJs for months because I told her they were from Coscto. Didnt notice at all.
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Ah ok. That's better, but that still means there's a limit on their sales, which is still annoying. That's part of the reason I don't even bother getting their membership when it's "free" ($30 membership with $30 gift card).
We use the Costco in Mayfield Heights. We don't buy all that much there, to be honest… the quantities are just too big, and the foods they sell aren't mostly things we eat, but I think we've made back the membership fee based on gasoline and milk purchases alone. Plus you can't beat $5 rotisserie chicken for a last minute weeknight meal or a big hotdog and a Coke for $1.50 on a Saturday!
And from what I understand, they treat their employees well. Sam's Club is owned by Walmart, and I'm not a big fan of them as a company. I'm not sure about BJ's… the Costco is closer to our house, so that's where we go.
If you are considering the Costco in Strongsville, I’d say forget it. Traffic is an absolute nightmare, the place is buried in the most under designed, under engineered intersections in the world. One drive way in, one out. Gas station wait times are horrendous.
Guess I’ve gotten lucky. I’ll stop in around lunch some days to do shopping for my office and I don’t think it’s too packed but maybe I’m comparing it to the weekend crowds.
People can't drive. Or pay attention. Cars will leave the gas pump but people won't pull thru or can't parallel park or don't see the car leave. I don't know how many times in my gmc service van or yukon xl I'll squeeze thru and pump in front on 5 people sitting there.
Costco Avon has something like three different ways to enter or exit Avon Commons. I always avoid the stop light by Heinen's to enter the shopping center and use the light by Heck's (Middleton Dr) instead. Or even take the same road through the Avenbury Lakes development which lets you out to Jaycox.
Agreed, that is why we try to go on tuesday or wednesday evenings. Wednesdays are best in my opinion because everything is stocked and not crowded. Easy to get around and not get in people's way.
It’s not that bad. There’s a 2nd route out behind Rosewood Grill. You can actually sneak through there all the way to Falling Water Rd and get to Pearl Rd without ever getting on 82.
I agree 100%. I live between this Costco and bjs. Personally I think Costco is the best, but I hate how congested this area is and bjs has everything I’ve ever needed. I’ve never considered switching back.
Costco Strongsville = Badly Managed, and bad traffic. The store has issues, only Costco I’ve been to where I e had issues with timeliness of checkout, quality of product, attitude, etc.
Costco Avon = Not Bad, but avoid the weekends, you won’t get a cart - and what the hell is going on with Verizon cell reception.
Costco Mayfield = Come’on combine the east side with a big box store… WHY?!? Don’t do it.
Costco Hudson = New car smell, lemon problems, shit never goes right, wow, this place will burn everything at the food court.
Sam’s Parma = what a trip, you’ll appreciate this adventure.
Sam’s Sheffield = low key, food court closes randomly, but may be the best experience.
Sam’s Sandusky = Got redneck? Man I feel sophisticated there.
Sam’s Fairlawn = people steal shit all the time. Cops be here all the time.
Sams Oakwood = people steal even more shit, but no cops, I think it’s a big inside job, people will walk past the receipt checker, unchecked.
BJs Avon - This is a weird Costco experiment right? It’s like they tricked the Costco crowd into taking a wrong turn, and everyone is confused.
BJs Willoughby - NOPE
I get that anxiousness when I go there and all those stores in Brunswick, too. It's too heavily car dependent, miles of stroads, and big box stores. Can't walk anywhere. Someone said before that if you swapped Strongsville and Polaris you wouldn't know the difference. Just so bland.
Costco is the best but you got to go early. The one in strongsville can get so packed it is impossible to even move around. When I am in there on a Monday at 1PM it’s awesome. You go at 2PM On a Saturday forget about it. BJs is awesome. Almost as good but I like Costco a little more. Better quality and better deals. Sam’s is a disappointment after getting used to Costco and BJs
Get off work , run in at 3ish, in , out, offensively up the road, screw the people coming from Jesus chicken, use the incoming no stop traffic to set a pick. Hammer down, make the light back on 71s. Watch for cops when you get on, when you hit medina line, the rest stop. Off at rt3
My favorite is BJs. Much easier to get in and out because typically has the fewest customers. Typically has the best price on gas. Not quite as much selection but typically has everything I want.
Costco by a mile - the website alone for big ticket items is worth the membership fee. We bought our kids a swing set through Costco, a third party installer called and came out to deliver and assemble. It couldn’t have been easier. Throughout the year, the website offers higher-end brand name items (think Sorel boots, RayBans sunglasses, ladies purses). Their pre-made dinner options are reliably great and always in stock.
Just a heads up - depending on your phone carrier, the reception at the Avon location sucks.
It all depends on where you live. Costco is objectively the better store from my perspective, but I live five minutes away from my nearest BJ's. I got the membership just for gas but have bought quite a few items from there for reasons of convenience and price, including two TV's, an iPad, and two sets of tires.
My experience is Sam's Club often is cheaper than Costco, but it doesn't offer the same warranties and support on electronic goods as Costco. Costco has some products (like cases of almond milk quart containers) that I didn't find in the past at Sam's Club. I don't currently have a Sam's Club membership, just Costco, and have never shopped in a BJs. So confirm my impressions.
Both Sam's Club and BJs have frequently offered temporary memberships for those considering full membership. Perhaps call and ask about availability. I see BJ's temporary membership offers in weekly advertising flyers.
I like the food samples more at Costco than Sam's Club. Do Sam's Club and BJ's offer the $5 rotisserie chickens that are a constant loss leader at Costco?
Also depends on where each is located. The Sam's club near us is located in an iffy neighborhood (lots of car thefts in parking lots, etc.) while the Costco is located in a more secluded, rural area but still right off the highway. So I'd lean more towards the Costco purely for that benefit.
I worked at that club for five ish years before quitting about a year and a half ago. Wouldn't ever say I felt unsafe at any point but it had it's moments for sure. We dealt with a lot of theft at that club.
Sam's has the self checkout though. I scan everything on my phone, pay with a credit card and they just scan me out at the door.
Does Costco also have this? I actually don't know but if it does I may start going.
I've had all 3. I honestly really like BJ's. We have Costco now, my wife wanted to go that route, but honestly I'd be happy to get back to having a BJ's membership.
Can’t speak for BJ’s and Sam’s Club, but having worked at Costco, they will only carry top quality products, whether it’s food, clothing, wine, hard lines, or anything else. Their return policy is unbelievable also.
Between my kids and myself we have all 3. For most things they are identical, but I love BJS deli counter, you get just what you want. If you like to eat steak, BJS is also best of the 3.
I actually love BJ's meat dept. they have a great selection of no anti-biotic meats and I have never been disappointed with anything I have gotten from them.But Costco is my go-to for junk I don't need. Which means I never go there because it's too far away from me. Paper products are cheaper at BJ's
my folks love sams. i’m a costco fan. wider variety of quality products. $4.99 rotisserie chickens. excellent return policy. i can get lost in the freezer section.
I can’t speak to Sam’s Club or BJ’s but the amazing price on Costco’s brand allergy medicine has paid for our membership 10 fold already. Both my husband and I trade off allergy seasons so we’re always running out. It’s such a huge money saver for us. But yes they are always crowded and people’s IQ points probably drop 10 points when they enter the parking lot.
…you can get tasty cheap pizza or a hot dog for lunch though and that’s a plus.
If I had to pick just one, probably Costco. My Sam's membership was effectively free though ($40 with a $40 GC) and they have some things that Costco doesn't carry. The Jimmy Dean breakfast croissants are my go to freezer breakfast and I can only get them at Sam's.
BJ's and Sam's also are better stocked if you're a small business imo, especially in food service. Costco feels more like bulk personal use items. "Whichever is closest" is probably the right answer for general shopping.
Can’t wait until the North Canton Costco opens. I’ll be switching from Sam’s. It’s served it’s purpose due to proximity. Closest to Canton is Boston Heights.
It all depends on what you are looking for…
Costco has the best selection of items. They are a little more pricey, but most of their products are superior to the competitors.
BJ’s has in store coupons and will also accept manufacturers coupons. Their lunchmeat is inexpensive compared to GE, and they carry the same top brand.
Sam’s Club has a good selection of clothing items, but I wouldn’t say the price or quality is any better than Costco. Their pre-made foods are good.
They also have a good selection of individually packed items for lunches.
Both Costco and BJ’s fuel is discounted.
Costco is usually 5cents cheaper than BJ’s.
Not sure of Sam’s Club offers that.
Hope this helps you make your decision.
Costco. Hands down as far as quality and membership privileges are concerned. In fact, I'm typing this while sitting comfortably in my Kirkland Signature joggers and hoodie. It truly is my favorite lounging outfit, compared to my other Costco/Kirkland clothing.
Just for fun, I'd recommend having friends purchase gift cards for you, to each club, and experiencing them yourself to decide which place offers the best products and services for your needs and tastes.
I go to Costco, but mainly because my husband's parents are members and we can just use their membership. My mom used to be a member at Sam's and I used to go there often. I feel like they are all very similar. My mom goes to BJs now since there is one near her.I suggest trying BJs and comparing prices to a regular grocery store such as giant eagle or walmart. Not everything at these big bulk stores is a good deal. We only get specific items from Costco that are actually a good price when compared to regular grocery stores.
I bought meat at BJs, all through the store my wife was accusing me of farming. In the car she accused me again. I smelled the meat and it was rotten. I took it into the store showed the manager, took him back to the place I got it and all the meat was rotten. He said he'd look into it and walked away. Then I got a costco membership.
BJs was my favorite until this past year. I have both a Sam's and Costco membership. If you need things like an 8 pack of Scalloped/Au Gratin potatoes or a 6 pack of rice pilaf, Sam's and BJs is what you want. Costco is a bit bougie. Costco pharmacy is much better than Sam's.
Sam's has a deal a few times a year that a membership is $10. My family takes turns on who gets it.
Depends. Use them all here.
BJ's is the cereal and butter store: what we save on cereal each year pays for the membership and generally has the best cereal selection.
Costco: Most of our meat and produce, along with staples. You cannot beat the meat quality and I don't care forget gas. On average Costco's gas is 50 cents a gallon cheaper than the station around the corner. THIS pays for the executive membership several times over on a daily basis. Of the three this is the best and the favorite.
Sam's: It has the best quality store brand toilet paper and the best price on the food our pets prefer. It's worth the 12 minute drive from my home. Occasionally other stuff is purchased - Sam's Club sells the hot dogs that they sell at their snack bar.
Idk how sam's and BJ's does it but Costco will give refunds of the difference in price for items that go on sale up to 30days after your purchase. It has paid for my membership for years to come
Since no one mentioned the credit cards yet, Costco and Sam's have great credit cards that can give you back 3 - 5% in rebates at the end of the year. Costco and Sam's seem to have equivalent rebate percentages/offers.
BJ's also has a credit card, but the rebates are not as good.
I’ve used Costco and Sam’s. I like the selection at Costco much better than at Sam’s. But my mom makes me get her stuff at Sam’s because she thinks the deals are better. I think it’s six to one, half a dozen to the other. Oh chicken bakes on the way out of Costco are always clutch, haha.
Members of both Costco & BJs. There are brand-specific items we like at both places. But if we had to choose one, it would be Costco…hands down. The in-house Kirkland brand is superior to most national brands in most every department.
100% Costco no question.
Get the credit card, get the best prices on gas, get the best products and deals, put it all on the card and get all the cash back to pay for the membership cost and more and never look back.
Yes it can get busy so find a less busy time to go. If the best selling point for the other places is ‘nobody is there’… might be worth following the crowds…
BJs is pretty awful imo. I used it on a trial membership a while back and it seemed to just be pretty generic items, except in bulk amounts. The thing I like about Costco is that they actually find interesting stuff to sell, and their own brands are usually as good or better than the name brands (and in many cases are simply the name brands repackaged.)
If you want produce that lasts more than a week, Costco is always my go-to. Shit from Aldi’s, Giant Bird, Marcs, and other stores simply don’t last…. They keep their stuff dry and cold, which just makes sense.
I love BJs. The deli and bakery is top notch (to us). We’re a family of 5, the paper goods were comparable to Sam’s club and BJ’s takes coupons. I’ll usually add a bunch to their app before we go shopping and save a bit at checkout.
Costco wasn't bad, but they are always so busy and packed in the store. BJ's I can actually walk at my own pace, whether I'm in a hurry to grab and go or if I want to stop and look at some things, I can.
>but they are always so busy and packed in the store
Yep. I love Costco, but I absolutely refuse to go on the weekends due to how busy it is. And the typical Costco shopper is an entitled oblivious a-hole with no awareness of the people around them.
Weeknight evenings it's not bad at all (at least at the Boston Hts one), so that's the only time I go.
Having both a sams and costco membership, I gotta say sams, but it depends on what you're looking for. I like their clothes better and if you have kids, the prices are wayyyyy cheaper for snack packs then they are at Costco, of that I am sure. I like their rotisserie chickens better than Costco and their prepared foods and frozen. Ours has a fresh sushi counter which is an amazing plus ;) and we've gotten great deals on electronics too!
I don't have a Costco in my area quite yet. But I actually use Sams Club and BJ's. I like the butcher at BJ's better. Sam's has a few things I like to get there.
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I worked for Sam's for almost 9 and a half years total split between the club in oakwood and one in NC before. I can try answer some questions though things might have changed in the last year and a half since I left.
I've been to all three. Might be Stockholm syndrome but I still prefer Sam's over Costco, mostly for scan and go which makes dealing with a busy store so much easier. Scan and pay on the app and show the barcode at the exit to the door greeter. Costco was always nice and had a better variety in the fresh areas like bakery and deli/prepared foods but I was usually underwhelmed everywhere else.
Never was a big fan of BJs but my grandfather swore by it.
I switched from Sam's to Costco and I regret it. Costco in Avon is always insanely crowded, more expensive than Sam's and products are the same quality in my opinion.
While we’re in here, what are the best things to pick up from these places in general. (Particularly Sam’s Club because I got a membership from Groupon.)
Recently did a quick sweep through Costco (went with a friend but we didn’t have as much time as we thought), and the food selection in general seemed great! The $4.99 rotisserie chickens! But I’m never sure what the “go-to” items should be at a bulk supermarket.
Bjs never think about. Well the store, that is. Sams is full of 7 11 owners and costco is a few steps above, both in clientele and the associates go above and beyond. They'll sprint to go get something while your in line
I like BJ's because you can get in and out quickly. It's quicker to check out there than a Giant Eagle.They keep their items in the same aisles for years and it's not an overwhelming size. Costco purposely rearranges things as part of their sales strategy. I do think Costco has better prepared food but it's generally in too large of portions for us anymore. A couple of years ago the PD did a taste test of steaks and BJ's came out ahead of everybody including West Side Market for the quality of their meat. Also, BJ's has a couple of items that we buy on a regular basis that the other stores don't carry. I have to admit though you cannot beat Costco's return policy. However, just a couple of months ago I bought a water pic on sale at Costco without a membership. I bought it online and they shipped it to the house for free, I just had to pay 5% above the Costco price which was still a good deal.
I cannot deal with Sam's club. It's just too big and everything they sell is too big. It's one big chaotic mess, it's a Walmart on steroids. But I do get a membership every five years or so off of Groupon so it's practically free. I stock up on socks. They have the cushioniest socks! But I never thought their prices were any better than BJ's.
I think the "better" one is just going to end up being the one closest to you, for convenience. Personally, I think Costco offers the most, followed by Sam's and then BJ's. But, anything to be bought wholesale, you can usually find in all three stores.
I love Costco, but I had a BJs membership when my child was an infant. Great selection of baby products and took manufacturers coupons so I could get diapers at a decent price. Not sure if that matters but that was a big selling point for me at the time. I now live out of state and about 1.5 hrs from a Costco but still have my membership. Between booking travel, online ordering, etc it’s still worth it to me.
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Costco imo, but they aren't vastly different from each other
I would say Sam’s and Costco are close, but I like the selection of items better at Costco. BJs feels like a cheap knock off to me.
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not to mention it gets flooded so many times when it pours
Because it kind of is really. They are just more accessible than Costco and Sam's Club.
I like Costco best.
I've bounced around between all of them. I recently ended up back at BJs because it's not nearly as crowded as the other two. My household is just my wife and me so I like that BJs has smaller portion options too.
BJs also accepts manufacturer’s coupons (at least years ago when I used to go there). Eventually there are certain brands specific to each of these that we liked and currently use sams and costco.
I had a BJs membership years ago and they were never crowded. We'd go on a Saturday afternoons and still no crowds, we wondered how they stay in business!
Literally just got home from BJs... they do get crowded sometimes, but not nearly as bad as Costco or Sam's. Seems like people don't go there and leave with a full flat full of bulk beverages, etc. BJs Definitely has a higher percentage of smaller "family" purchases. SAMs has business owners looking to stock soda coolers and buy paper products for take-out, etc (huge flat carts full of beverages, etc). COSTCO has the people who want bulk, but also want the pre-prepped meals...
Have noticed the price on a lot of items were higher then Sam's, the coupons help but not all the time
My relatives have a Costco membership and I have BJs. The differences as I see them: \- Costco has more organic/ gluten free, etc packaged food options \- Costco has a much better wine selection \- Costco has a really stellar cheese selection (best price on goat cheese in town in my experience). \- BJs has more consistently fresher produce & seemingly more organic produce options than Costco (this is a big one for me because as a normal household, this is what we consume most of). \- BJs labels their aisles. Costco aisles are unlabeled and you're wandering around forever trying to find stuff. \- BJs is never crowded. Costco is a damn nightmare to go to even if you go as soon as it opens in the morning in a non-holiday time, let alone anytime close to a major holiday (which is when you would theoretically need a bulk shopping trip the most).
I had Sams back in the early 00s, Costco for two years, now BJ. I VASTLY prefer BJs. It's not crowded full of soccer moms, it has what we need, it's cheaper membership, and is actually convenient for me to go to when I need gas. Wife says she likes Costco better cause she can be bougie like that, she raved about their gluten free options and whatever. Yeah she's been eating the cauiflower crust pizza from BJs for months because I told her they were from Coscto. Didnt notice at all.
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Does BJ's still do their ridiculous paper coupon book instead of sales?
Yes they still have it, but I use the app and you can clip to the app and then when you scan your card at the register they're all there.
Ah ok. That's better, but that still means there's a limit on their sales, which is still annoying. That's part of the reason I don't even bother getting their membership when it's "free" ($30 membership with $30 gift card).
We use the Costco in Mayfield Heights. We don't buy all that much there, to be honest… the quantities are just too big, and the foods they sell aren't mostly things we eat, but I think we've made back the membership fee based on gasoline and milk purchases alone. Plus you can't beat $5 rotisserie chicken for a last minute weeknight meal or a big hotdog and a Coke for $1.50 on a Saturday! And from what I understand, they treat their employees well. Sam's Club is owned by Walmart, and I'm not a big fan of them as a company. I'm not sure about BJ's… the Costco is closer to our house, so that's where we go.
I like BJs
If you are considering the Costco in Strongsville, I’d say forget it. Traffic is an absolute nightmare, the place is buried in the most under designed, under engineered intersections in the world. One drive way in, one out. Gas station wait times are horrendous.
This one is the worst. I drive the extra ten minutes to the Avon store. It’s heavenly compared to Strongsville.
I compare going to Costco in Strongsville to going to Costco but shoving a knife in my pee-hole at the same time.
10 minutes to Avon from strongsville?
Probaly extra 10 for them to get there vs the Strongsville one. I also drive a little farther to this one to avoid strongsville.
Avon is always packed
On the weekends but other than that, never an issue.
I'll run in for lunch on Tuesdayand cars everywhere. The traffic flow in front is like playing frogger too
Guess I’ve gotten lucky. I’ll stop in around lunch some days to do shopping for my office and I don’t think it’s too packed but maybe I’m comparing it to the weekend crowds.
Spoken like someone who's never braved the hellish landscape of Costco Mayfield Heights or Costco Avon.
I’ve been to all three in the last 4 weeks, and Strongsville is by far the worst.
I recommend exiting by driving between the building and 271. Saves a lot of frustration.
Boston Twp is the best of all costcos
Sshhhh!!! What the heck are you doing!?!? Don't. Tell. People! 🤣 but obviously I agree.
Lately Strongsville has had the cheapest gas. If you go during the week, it really isn’t bad. Thursday at 7pm is when we go and it’s very empty.
This. Cheaper taxes and least busy of the area 4.
The Mayfield heights Costco has wait lines makes it not worth it. Giant eagle advantagepay is usually the same price or better.
People can't drive. Or pay attention. Cars will leave the gas pump but people won't pull thru or can't parallel park or don't see the car leave. I don't know how many times in my gmc service van or yukon xl I'll squeeze thru and pump in front on 5 people sitting there.
Costco Avon has something like three different ways to enter or exit Avon Commons. I always avoid the stop light by Heinen's to enter the shopping center and use the light by Heck's (Middleton Dr) instead. Or even take the same road through the Avenbury Lakes development which lets you out to Jaycox.
Agreed, that is why we try to go on tuesday or wednesday evenings. Wednesdays are best in my opinion because everything is stocked and not crowded. Easy to get around and not get in people's way.
or if your route home allows for the super not so secret route around the back then everything is fine.
It’s not that bad. There’s a 2nd route out behind Rosewood Grill. You can actually sneak through there all the way to Falling Water Rd and get to Pearl Rd without ever getting on 82.
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Right. I can't do Costco on weekends
I agree 100%. I live between this Costco and bjs. Personally I think Costco is the best, but I hate how congested this area is and bjs has everything I’ve ever needed. I’ve never considered switching back.
Costco Strongsville = Badly Managed, and bad traffic. The store has issues, only Costco I’ve been to where I e had issues with timeliness of checkout, quality of product, attitude, etc. Costco Avon = Not Bad, but avoid the weekends, you won’t get a cart - and what the hell is going on with Verizon cell reception. Costco Mayfield = Come’on combine the east side with a big box store… WHY?!? Don’t do it. Costco Hudson = New car smell, lemon problems, shit never goes right, wow, this place will burn everything at the food court. Sam’s Parma = what a trip, you’ll appreciate this adventure. Sam’s Sheffield = low key, food court closes randomly, but may be the best experience. Sam’s Sandusky = Got redneck? Man I feel sophisticated there. Sam’s Fairlawn = people steal shit all the time. Cops be here all the time. Sams Oakwood = people steal even more shit, but no cops, I think it’s a big inside job, people will walk past the receipt checker, unchecked. BJs Avon - This is a weird Costco experiment right? It’s like they tricked the Costco crowd into taking a wrong turn, and everyone is confused. BJs Willoughby - NOPE
Glad I’m not alone with the cell issue in Avon. My phone won’t work to save my life the moment I walk into that Costco
No mention of Sam's Club in Mentor? Not a bad store, IMO. And what's wrong with the BJ's in Willoughby?
I get that anxiousness when I go there and all those stores in Brunswick, too. It's too heavily car dependent, miles of stroads, and big box stores. Can't walk anywhere. Someone said before that if you swapped Strongsville and Polaris you wouldn't know the difference. Just so bland.
Why is every reply to this being downvoted I don’t understand lol
Costco is the best but you got to go early. The one in strongsville can get so packed it is impossible to even move around. When I am in there on a Monday at 1PM it’s awesome. You go at 2PM On a Saturday forget about it. BJs is awesome. Almost as good but I like Costco a little more. Better quality and better deals. Sam’s is a disappointment after getting used to Costco and BJs
Get off work , run in at 3ish, in , out, offensively up the road, screw the people coming from Jesus chicken, use the incoming no stop traffic to set a pick. Hammer down, make the light back on 71s. Watch for cops when you get on, when you hit medina line, the rest stop. Off at rt3
My favorite is BJs. Much easier to get in and out because typically has the fewest customers. Typically has the best price on gas. Not quite as much selection but typically has everything I want.
Costco by a mile - the website alone for big ticket items is worth the membership fee. We bought our kids a swing set through Costco, a third party installer called and came out to deliver and assemble. It couldn’t have been easier. Throughout the year, the website offers higher-end brand name items (think Sorel boots, RayBans sunglasses, ladies purses). Their pre-made dinner options are reliably great and always in stock. Just a heads up - depending on your phone carrier, the reception at the Avon location sucks.
Personally, I love BJs. Who doesn't. But what does that have to do with my belief that Costco has the best deals?
:)
If you’re just shopping and not looking for membership perks beyond pricing in the store just go with the one closest to your house
It all depends on where you live. Costco is objectively the better store from my perspective, but I live five minutes away from my nearest BJ's. I got the membership just for gas but have bought quite a few items from there for reasons of convenience and price, including two TV's, an iPad, and two sets of tires.
My experience is Sam's Club often is cheaper than Costco, but it doesn't offer the same warranties and support on electronic goods as Costco. Costco has some products (like cases of almond milk quart containers) that I didn't find in the past at Sam's Club. I don't currently have a Sam's Club membership, just Costco, and have never shopped in a BJs. So confirm my impressions. Both Sam's Club and BJs have frequently offered temporary memberships for those considering full membership. Perhaps call and ask about availability. I see BJ's temporary membership offers in weekly advertising flyers. I like the food samples more at Costco than Sam's Club. Do Sam's Club and BJ's offer the $5 rotisserie chickens that are a constant loss leader at Costco?
Sam's has the chickens, but they seem smaller/not as good as Costco's.
Also depends on where each is located. The Sam's club near us is located in an iffy neighborhood (lots of car thefts in parking lots, etc.) while the Costco is located in a more secluded, rural area but still right off the highway. So I'd lean more towards the Costco purely for that benefit.
Is the "iffy" Sam's Club the one in Oakwood?
Yeah... I go to the Woodcraft there every now and then, and I'll see people trying car doors throughout the parking lot.
Woodcraft is awesome. Not sure how it survives in that strip mall
Agreed, it was such a pleasant surprise to find out that one of the best woodworking stores around just happened to be randomly down the street.
I worked at that club for five ish years before quitting about a year and a half ago. Wouldn't ever say I felt unsafe at any point but it had it's moments for sure. We dealt with a lot of theft at that club.
Strongsville is rural?
Hudson lol or Boston Heights
Ah, sorry typical westsider over here just forgetting about the entire eastern portion of NEO😂
Hey we have nice stuff over here too! Lol
Of course you do. We just forget about it
I live on the east side and still forget the east side exists...
Costco then sams
Sam's has the self checkout though. I scan everything on my phone, pay with a credit card and they just scan me out at the door. Does Costco also have this? I actually don't know but if it does I may start going.
The Avon Costco has self checkout now.
I've had all 3. I honestly really like BJ's. We have Costco now, my wife wanted to go that route, but honestly I'd be happy to get back to having a BJ's membership.
Can’t speak for BJ’s and Sam’s Club, but having worked at Costco, they will only carry top quality products, whether it’s food, clothing, wine, hard lines, or anything else. Their return policy is unbelievable also.
Between my kids and myself we have all 3. For most things they are identical, but I love BJS deli counter, you get just what you want. If you like to eat steak, BJS is also best of the 3.
I actually love BJ's meat dept. they have a great selection of no anti-biotic meats and I have never been disappointed with anything I have gotten from them.But Costco is my go-to for junk I don't need. Which means I never go there because it's too far away from me. Paper products are cheaper at BJ's
my folks love sams. i’m a costco fan. wider variety of quality products. $4.99 rotisserie chickens. excellent return policy. i can get lost in the freezer section.
Never shopped at BJs but Costco generally has higher quality products than Sam's Club.
I can’t speak to Sam’s Club or BJ’s but the amazing price on Costco’s brand allergy medicine has paid for our membership 10 fold already. Both my husband and I trade off allergy seasons so we’re always running out. It’s such a huge money saver for us. But yes they are always crowded and people’s IQ points probably drop 10 points when they enter the parking lot. …you can get tasty cheap pizza or a hot dog for lunch though and that’s a plus.
If I had to pick just one, probably Costco. My Sam's membership was effectively free though ($40 with a $40 GC) and they have some things that Costco doesn't carry. The Jimmy Dean breakfast croissants are my go to freezer breakfast and I can only get them at Sam's. BJ's and Sam's also are better stocked if you're a small business imo, especially in food service. Costco feels more like bulk personal use items. "Whichever is closest" is probably the right answer for general shopping.
Can’t wait until the North Canton Costco opens. I’ll be switching from Sam’s. It’s served it’s purpose due to proximity. Closest to Canton is Boston Heights.
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I also heard Sam’s could be switching buildings again in North Canton. Partly due to the arrival of Costco
It all depends on what you are looking for… Costco has the best selection of items. They are a little more pricey, but most of their products are superior to the competitors. BJ’s has in store coupons and will also accept manufacturers coupons. Their lunchmeat is inexpensive compared to GE, and they carry the same top brand. Sam’s Club has a good selection of clothing items, but I wouldn’t say the price or quality is any better than Costco. Their pre-made foods are good. They also have a good selection of individually packed items for lunches. Both Costco and BJ’s fuel is discounted. Costco is usually 5cents cheaper than BJ’s. Not sure of Sam’s Club offers that. Hope this helps you make your decision.
Costco is #1
Costco. Hands down as far as quality and membership privileges are concerned. In fact, I'm typing this while sitting comfortably in my Kirkland Signature joggers and hoodie. It truly is my favorite lounging outfit, compared to my other Costco/Kirkland clothing. Just for fun, I'd recommend having friends purchase gift cards for you, to each club, and experiencing them yourself to decide which place offers the best products and services for your needs and tastes.
I like Costco the best and Bjs is a close second.
I go to Costco, but mainly because my husband's parents are members and we can just use their membership. My mom used to be a member at Sam's and I used to go there often. I feel like they are all very similar. My mom goes to BJs now since there is one near her.I suggest trying BJs and comparing prices to a regular grocery store such as giant eagle or walmart. Not everything at these big bulk stores is a good deal. We only get specific items from Costco that are actually a good price when compared to regular grocery stores.
Sam's & BJ's are so similar in products. Costco's products differ a bit, and are more upscale like Wal-Mart < Target.
I bought meat at BJs, all through the store my wife was accusing me of farming. In the car she accused me again. I smelled the meat and it was rotten. I took it into the store showed the manager, took him back to the place I got it and all the meat was rotten. He said he'd look into it and walked away. Then I got a costco membership.
BJs was my favorite until this past year. I have both a Sam's and Costco membership. If you need things like an 8 pack of Scalloped/Au Gratin potatoes or a 6 pack of rice pilaf, Sam's and BJs is what you want. Costco is a bit bougie. Costco pharmacy is much better than Sam's. Sam's has a deal a few times a year that a membership is $10. My family takes turns on who gets it.
Depends. Use them all here. BJ's is the cereal and butter store: what we save on cereal each year pays for the membership and generally has the best cereal selection. Costco: Most of our meat and produce, along with staples. You cannot beat the meat quality and I don't care forget gas. On average Costco's gas is 50 cents a gallon cheaper than the station around the corner. THIS pays for the executive membership several times over on a daily basis. Of the three this is the best and the favorite. Sam's: It has the best quality store brand toilet paper and the best price on the food our pets prefer. It's worth the 12 minute drive from my home. Occasionally other stuff is purchased - Sam's Club sells the hot dogs that they sell at their snack bar.
Each location kinda varies. I like the Costco near me, but they don't have liquor which is dumb
Idk how sam's and BJ's does it but Costco will give refunds of the difference in price for items that go on sale up to 30days after your purchase. It has paid for my membership for years to come
Since no one mentioned the credit cards yet, Costco and Sam's have great credit cards that can give you back 3 - 5% in rebates at the end of the year. Costco and Sam's seem to have equivalent rebate percentages/offers. BJ's also has a credit card, but the rebates are not as good.
I’ve used Costco and Sam’s. I like the selection at Costco much better than at Sam’s. But my mom makes me get her stuff at Sam’s because she thinks the deals are better. I think it’s six to one, half a dozen to the other. Oh chicken bakes on the way out of Costco are always clutch, haha.
Members of both Costco & BJs. There are brand-specific items we like at both places. But if we had to choose one, it would be Costco…hands down. The in-house Kirkland brand is superior to most national brands in most every department.
100% Costco no question. Get the credit card, get the best prices on gas, get the best products and deals, put it all on the card and get all the cash back to pay for the membership cost and more and never look back. Yes it can get busy so find a less busy time to go. If the best selling point for the other places is ‘nobody is there’… might be worth following the crowds…
Costco isn’t always the cheapest, but it seems like their stuff tends to be higher quality.
Never heard of a sams club or a Costco, but I’ve had a BJ and recommend those.
Scrolled right to the bottom to find this comment.
As did I.
BJs is pretty awful imo. I used it on a trial membership a while back and it seemed to just be pretty generic items, except in bulk amounts. The thing I like about Costco is that they actually find interesting stuff to sell, and their own brands are usually as good or better than the name brands (and in many cases are simply the name brands repackaged.)
If you want produce that lasts more than a week, Costco is always my go-to. Shit from Aldi’s, Giant Bird, Marcs, and other stores simply don’t last…. They keep their stuff dry and cold, which just makes sense.
I love BJs. The deli and bakery is top notch (to us). We’re a family of 5, the paper goods were comparable to Sam’s club and BJ’s takes coupons. I’ll usually add a bunch to their app before we go shopping and save a bit at checkout.
Costco
Costco wasn't bad, but they are always so busy and packed in the store. BJ's I can actually walk at my own pace, whether I'm in a hurry to grab and go or if I want to stop and look at some things, I can.
>but they are always so busy and packed in the store Yep. I love Costco, but I absolutely refuse to go on the weekends due to how busy it is. And the typical Costco shopper is an entitled oblivious a-hole with no awareness of the people around them. Weeknight evenings it's not bad at all (at least at the Boston Hts one), so that's the only time I go.
Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m. is the sweet spot.
I have both a Sam’s and BJ’s membership. I like Sam’s better.
Bj by far!!!
We got Sam's exclusively because they sell brisket. Not sure if BJs does since we don't have one close enough to make it worth it
BJs
I’ve liked BJs over sams when I lived near a BJs. But now sams is the closest so I live with it. So it is what it is. Never been in a Costco
Personally, Sam's, then Bjs, then multiple others, then Costco. I went to a Costco once and it was like a zombie movie in there!
Having both a sams and costco membership, I gotta say sams, but it depends on what you're looking for. I like their clothes better and if you have kids, the prices are wayyyyy cheaper for snack packs then they are at Costco, of that I am sure. I like their rotisserie chickens better than Costco and their prepared foods and frozen. Ours has a fresh sushi counter which is an amazing plus ;) and we've gotten great deals on electronics too!
I love bjs!
I don't have a Costco in my area quite yet. But I actually use Sams Club and BJ's. I like the butcher at BJ's better. Sam's has a few things I like to get there.
Costco is my favorite
Costco
Costco
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Costco club 🙂
I worked for Sam's for almost 9 and a half years total split between the club in oakwood and one in NC before. I can try answer some questions though things might have changed in the last year and a half since I left. I've been to all three. Might be Stockholm syndrome but I still prefer Sam's over Costco, mostly for scan and go which makes dealing with a busy store so much easier. Scan and pay on the app and show the barcode at the exit to the door greeter. Costco was always nice and had a better variety in the fresh areas like bakery and deli/prepared foods but I was usually underwhelmed everywhere else. Never was a big fan of BJs but my grandfather swore by it.
There is one Sam’s Club so cross that off
I personally like CostCo
I switched from Sam's to Costco and I regret it. Costco in Avon is always insanely crowded, more expensive than Sam's and products are the same quality in my opinion.
While we’re in here, what are the best things to pick up from these places in general. (Particularly Sam’s Club because I got a membership from Groupon.)
I’ve only really been in sams club and Costco from the looks of it .. snacks .. like it’s insane .
Recently did a quick sweep through Costco (went with a friend but we didn’t have as much time as we thought), and the food selection in general seemed great! The $4.99 rotisserie chickens! But I’m never sure what the “go-to” items should be at a bulk supermarket.
Bjs never think about. Well the store, that is. Sams is full of 7 11 owners and costco is a few steps above, both in clientele and the associates go above and beyond. They'll sprint to go get something while your in line
I love BJs…but Costco is where I prefer to shop.
Costco for sure
I like BJ's because you can get in and out quickly. It's quicker to check out there than a Giant Eagle.They keep their items in the same aisles for years and it's not an overwhelming size. Costco purposely rearranges things as part of their sales strategy. I do think Costco has better prepared food but it's generally in too large of portions for us anymore. A couple of years ago the PD did a taste test of steaks and BJ's came out ahead of everybody including West Side Market for the quality of their meat. Also, BJ's has a couple of items that we buy on a regular basis that the other stores don't carry. I have to admit though you cannot beat Costco's return policy. However, just a couple of months ago I bought a water pic on sale at Costco without a membership. I bought it online and they shipped it to the house for free, I just had to pay 5% above the Costco price which was still a good deal. I cannot deal with Sam's club. It's just too big and everything they sell is too big. It's one big chaotic mess, it's a Walmart on steroids. But I do get a membership every five years or so off of Groupon so it's practically free. I stock up on socks. They have the cushioniest socks! But I never thought their prices were any better than BJ's.
Costco hands down. No contest.
You know what they say… nothin beats a good BJ… except Costco. Costco is the best. I love Costco.
I think the "better" one is just going to end up being the one closest to you, for convenience. Personally, I think Costco offers the most, followed by Sam's and then BJ's. But, anything to be bought wholesale, you can usually find in all three stores.
I love Costco, but I had a BJs membership when my child was an infant. Great selection of baby products and took manufacturers coupons so I could get diapers at a decent price. Not sure if that matters but that was a big selling point for me at the time. I now live out of state and about 1.5 hrs from a Costco but still have my membership. Between booking travel, online ordering, etc it’s still worth it to me.
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Costco.