Costco, one of America’s leading wholesale giants, has announced it will close all 617 stores across the United States on Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day. This move reaffirms commitment to federal holidays and puts it in contrast with many major retail competitors who will remain open.
A Tradition of Respect
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, honors U.S. military personnel who died in service to their country. While it has become synonymous with backyard barbecues, patriotic parades, and the unofficial start of summer, it continues to highlight the day’s solemn purpose by shutting its doors.
Unlike other retailers chasing holiday shopping traffic, it has held firm to its policy of closing on select federal holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Labor Day, and Memorial Day. This decision reflects the company’s consistent prioritization of employee welfare and national observance over commercial opportunity.
Also Read: NSW Floods Continue as Inland Farmers Welcome Much-Needed Rainfall
Retail Landscape: Who’s Open, Who’s Not?
it’s closure is notable amid a busy shopping period. Retailers such as Walmart, Target, Kroger, Sam’s Club, and Publix will continue operating, with some adjusting store hours. Pharmacy services at these stores may vary by location.
It’s absence could mean a short-term gain for competitors as customers seek alternatives for last-minute needs. Still, financial experts argue the wholesale retailer will not suffer significant losses.
“its customers are planners,” said Drew Powers, founder of Powers Financial Group. “They typically buy in bulk and prepare ahead of time. This closure likely encourages members to shop earlier, increasing sales in the days leading up to the holiday.”
it to Close All Minnesota Stores for Memorial Day 2025https://t.co/669ClUOlp1#Costco #Minnesota #MemorialDay2025 #StoreClosure #RetailNews #News #Shopping #CommunityImpact #LocalBusiness #HolidayShopping #hotnews #news #breaking #Business #BusinessNews #World
— Daily News – Trending | Breaking | Technology (@mirror7news) May 20, 2025
Leadership and Loyalty
Executives and commentators view the closure as a reaffirmation of it’s Costco company culture and long-term vision. Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group, told Newsweek, “it closing on Memorial Day will have little impact as shoppers generally make their purchases prior to the holiday. Costco has always been consistent in maintaining its values, which customers respect.”
Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, echoed this view: “it’s move Costco builds goodwill. Costco sends a message that the company values its employees and understands the significance of national observances.”
Beene also noted that the closure could paradoxically lead to an uptick in sales. “Knowing they’ll be closed, customers may stock up earlier, and some stores could see boosted weekend sales ahead of Memorial Day.”
Industry Contrast
The divergence between and other big-box stores also reveals differing philosophies in retail. While Target and Walmart often extend hours to capture holiday spending, Costco has consistently chosen to give its workers time off for major national holidays. This decision reflects broader trends in employee relations
