Costco, known for its bulk groceries and household goods, has quietly become a major player in the hearing aid market.
With competitive pricing, a flexible return policy and strong customer service, the retail giant is now the second-largest hearing aid provider in the US, behind only the Department of Veterans Affairs.
With hearing centers in nearly 600 locations across the U.S., Costco has built a loyal following selling hearing aids since 1989.
The retailer’s success lies in its ability to keep prices low while maintaining a shopping experience free from high-pressure sales techniques.
Costco, known for its bulk groceries and household goods, has quietly become a major player in the hearing aid market
With hearing centers in nearly 600 locations across the U.S., Costco has built a loyal following selling hearing aids since 1989
Hearing aids at Costco start around $1,500 per pair, significantly cheaper than the usual $3,500 to $7,000 typically charged at clinics.
Customers also appreciate the generous 180-day return policy and free follow-up services like cleanings, all without the pressure of commission-based sales.
The service also offers a three-year warranty on hearing aids, follow-up appointments, device and check-ups – not to mention hearing tests.
Many shoppers are drawn to Costco after negative experiences elsewhere.
Cathy Ellis, 67, of Virginia, initially paid $6,000 for hearing aids from an audiologist, but switched to Costco after struggling with maintenance costs. She ended up buying a device that cost $3,000 that synced with her iPhone.
Hearing aids at Costco start around $1,500 per pair – significantly cheaper than the usual $3,500 to $7,000 typically charged at clinics
Shoppers say they like Costco’s no-pressure sales tactics
“I had my snake oil radar on, but tthere is no stigma and no upselling here,” Ellis told the Wall Street Journal.
Stephen Martin of Arizona felt pressured to buy a $7,000 pair at a hospital, so he turned to Costco.
After being allowed to walk around the store with a pair, he noticed he was hearing sounds he normally wouldn’t pick up and decided to buy a pair for $1,500.
“Every time I go into that store to have something done to my hearing aids, I buy different stuff,” Martin told WSJ.comapproval of the company’s sales technique.
Both Ellis and Martin say they found quality products at a fraction of the price without having to experience and push salespeople.
The reason Costco is able to sell and have such low prices is because of the sheer volume the company sells, which now accounts for more than 16 percent of all hearing aid sales nationwide.
Costco can sell and these low prices are due to the sheer volume the company sells, which now accounts for more than 16 percent of all hearing aid sales nationwide.
Even audiology experts have acknowledged the challenge of competing with Costco’s prices and service, as the retailer offers an affordable solution to hearing loss.
“There’s nothing close to the price you get at Costco,” says Abram Bailey, a doctor of audiology.
“It’s an unfair position for anyone trying to practice audiology, but have I recommended friends and family go to Costco for hearing aids? Yes, I did.’