Costco Caskets

Costco Caskets
Originally uploaded by mryosemite.

Associated Press
August 18th, 2004

From the cradle to the grave. You can buy baby food, groceries, computers, furniture and a whole host of things at Costco -- now you can even find caskets at some of its stores.

The world's largest warehouse club announced Tuesday that it has begun a test program that offers caskets at two of its Chicago area stores.

Washington-based Costco Wholesale Corp., known for selling most of its products in bulk quantities, said the two stores are now offering 6 different models of steel caskets that are made by Universal Casket Co. based in Michigan.

"We are just trying to offer value to our customers, just like everything else that we do," said Gina Bianchi, a Costco spokeswoman. "The idea definitely takes some getting used to, but if you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Many of our customers are buying groceries for large families or even for small businesses. With this in mind, the caskets were designed as a convenient carrying case for both groceries and people. Many people are placing the caskets on our flat carts and then using them as shopping carts. Costco employees will then assist you in loading your CFG (Casket Full of Groceries) into your station wagon or SUV."

"We're quite excited about the positive feedback we've received."

"Numerous customers have said that the caskets make great food lockers. Then, when a rich relative passes away, they celebrate by preparing a large meal. Naturally, this empties the casket- then it's ready for Aunt Sally."