A plea to Costco CEO: Don’t take what midtown KC loves out of our store | Opinion

Below is a letter I sent to Ron Vachris, president and CEO of Costco Wholesale Corporation:

Dear Mr. Vachris,

I am writing to express my deep disappointment and concern regarding Costco’s decision to close the Linwood Boulevard warehouse in Kansas City temporarily and convert it into a Costco Business Center. As a longtime, loyal and dedicated Costco member, this is heartbreaking, as I know it is to thousands who rely upon this location.

For years, Costco’s Linwood location has been more than just a retail store — it has been a vital community asset serving thousands of families, older adults, small business owners and residents throughout Kansas City’s urban core. The store’s pharmacy, optical department, food court and affordable everyday goods have become essential services for many members who depend on convenient access to quality products at reasonable prices.

When Costco made the commitment to invest in this community, it was widely viewed as a positive example of corporate leadership and community partnership. The Linwood store demonstrated that major retailers could succeed in an underserved area while strengthening the local economy and improving residents’ quality of life. Today, it stands as a busy and successful store.

That is why the decision to eliminate this full-service warehouse is so troubling. While a Business Center may serve a purpose, it does not provide the same services and benefits that thousands of current members rely upon. Families will lose access to groceries and household essentials. Older residents will lose convenient access to pharmacy, hearing and optical services. People who already face transportation challenges will be forced to travel much farther to reach another Costco warehouse — or be left paying much higher prices elsewhere, further hurting your own customers.

What makes this decision particularly difficult to understand is that a Business Center could be located elsewhere in the Kansas City metropolitan area without disrupting the lives of thousands of loyal members. Instead, Costco has chosen a path that places the burden on the very customers who helped make this location a success.

Mayor tried to intervene

Costco has built its reputation on valuing its members, employees and communities. This is a major reason we chose to be Costco members over other wholesale clubs. The overwhelming response from customers, community leaders and local residents demonstrates how strongly people feel about preserving the Linwood warehouse. Even the Kansas City mayor and City Council members tried to negotiate on behalf of residents. These are not just customers voicing inconvenience — they are members who feel abandoned after years of supporting Costco and helping this location thrive. You should be all ashamed of yourselves and your heartless decision.

I urge Costco’s leadership to reconsider this decision and work with the community to find an alternative solution. The Linwood warehouse represents far more than a building. It is a lifeline for many Kansas City residents and a symbol of Costco’s commitment to serving all communities.

Converting this store sends a message that the needs of these customers are far less important than corporate convenience. I believe Costco can and must do better, and I respectfully ask that you listen to your members and keep the Linwood warehouse open as a full-service Costco.

Ron Vachris sent me this reply:

“Thank you for your email.

“As for Costco turning our back on our members and making a heartless decision, I would like to respond to your statements.

“The facts are the complete opposite, Costco is making a significant investment into the Kansas City market.

“• A new state-of-the-art facility with a larger warehouse, larger parking area, significantly larger gas station and expanded merchandise selection. This facility will be the same distance for many of our existing members, and will be a short commute for others, I do agree.

“• Second, (this) will be our first Business Center in the Kansas City area. Our current facility will undergo a significant remodel to improve the member experience. Our Business Center will improve our ability to serve the large number of current business members we have in Kansas City.

“Along with the additional warehouse in the community, we also provide very affordable delivery options for groceries and pharmaceuticals.

“Our commitment to our members in Kansas City remains strong. Along with our improved and remodeled facilities, we will also be creating additional well paying jobs in the community.

“Thank you for the opportunity to describe our intentions, strengthening our ability to serve your community.”

While I appreciate Mr. Vachris’ reply, my concern remains: The loss of an individual customer-focused Costco warehouse on Linwood Boulevard would be a grave disservice to its many customers in the heart of Kansas City. I hope the company will reconsider its decision.

Andrea Young of Kansas City is a longtime Costco member.