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The Delta variant continues to spread across the world, increasing demand for these items. But that’s not the only reason Costco is limiting purchases. The warehouse store is also struggling to find trucks, drivers and shipping containers to get the items to its stores.
While the increase in Covid cases may lead to increased demand for some items, Galanti’s comments have focused more on issues with getting products to stores. He said problems with the company’s supply chain were causing him to order items earlier than he would otherwise.
Rather than simply paying to move freight containers from Asia to North America, Costco chartered three container ships, with each ship capable of carrying 800 to 1,000 containers at a time. Costco expects to be able to make ten transpacific trips per year with the ships.
Shipping costs make some items more expensive, adding to other inflationary pressures.
“Pulp and paper price increases, certain items [are] Plastic items, such as trash bags, Ziploc bags, disposable cups and plates are up 5% to 11%. Non-durable metal items, such as aluminum foil and beverage cans are up in the mid single-digit range.
Costco reported slightly better than expected profits for the fiscal fourth quarter which ended on August 29. Its shares were slightly higher in pre-market trading on Friday on the report, and are up 20% so far this year.
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