Costco needs to learn how to advertise.  "Big box" items such as LCDs
and plasmas are not selling like they used to, granted they will get
some movement now that Circuit City has closed, but I think Besy Buy
will pick up more of this business.  Costco has tried this "go green"
movement by mailing out less coupon books since most stores have come
to a "couponless" scanning system.

The last time I was in a Costco, after discovering that a coupon book
was out for some time, I spent the extra effort to cut out each
discounted savings only to hear that none of them were needed because
the cashier just needed to scan one barcode.  Yes, this is and was
convenient, but I think that Costco now feels that people will hear
from someone else that these savings exist and therefore no need to
mail out savings books.

Look at the discount store "Smart and Final".  They still put out a
circular once a week and this does help people know that they can
still find certain savings.  Costco sends out their coupon books to
certain regions each time and sometimes, if you go early, you can pick
up a copy at their store.  These books have a lot of value within them
and they are on smaller items that members use most often.  Granted,
there may be a buy on a computer or a flat screen monitor hidden
within its pages, but most of us are also looking at a discount on
pork chops and toilet tissue as well.

Sams Club had recently advertised a $25 gift card for new memberships
and this may have also taken away from Costco.  Sams Club sent out
some circulars during Christmas time and the only advertisement seen
from Costco were emails that I didn't even open.  Yes, emails are the
most inexpensive way of advertising, but Costco needs to view other
methods to get something out to draw in customers.

Costco needs help by creating and distributing more of these
"Passport" books.  When people are more aware of the cost savings
within their own membership, then they will take advantage of these
savings.