News Summary
Costco has announced plans to construct a 40-pump gasoline station exclusively for members in Mission Viejo, California. Set to open by spring 2026, the gas station will be located off Interstate 5 Freeway. The development, which involves demolishing an old Bed, Bath & Beyond store, is expected to attract many members due to Costco’s famous Kirkland brand gas and competitive pricing. As fuel prices rise, this gas station addresses the increasing need for affordable fuel options in the area.
Mission Viejo, California – Costco has announced plans to construct a standalone 40-pump gasoline station, exclusively serving members, in Mission Viejo. The facility is set to open by spring 2026 and will be located off the Interstate 5 Freeway at 25732 El Paseo, strategically positioned between La Paz Road and Oso Parkway. The city’s planning department confirmed the development, which involves demolishing an old Bed, Bath & Beyond store.
The standalone gas station will cater solely to Costco members, reflecting the retailer’s strategy to leverage its brand’s popularity. Featuring Costco’s Kirkland brand gas, known for its competitive pricing, the new facility is expected to attract a significant customer base. The nearest Costco retail location is approximately two miles away, enhancing convenience for local members.
Mission Viejo’s City spokesman Robert Schick stated that plans for the gas station received city approval back in March. Currently, grading and building permits are under review, and construction is anticipated to commence in the fall of this year. This project marks Costco’s first standalone gas station and its most extensive facility of this kind to date.
The gas station will be part of the Mission Viejo Freeway Center, a retail hub that includes popular stores like Krispy Kreme, Petco, and Best Buy. Notably, the Costco gas station plans do not include any additional retail space or convenience store, which is a departure from the traditional gas station model where such facilities often provide supplementary services and products.
With California’s average fuel price currently hovering around $4.65 per gallon, the Costco gas station’s opening is timely, as many fuel buyers prioritize price over other considerations. Industry analysts have observed a shift in consumer behavior, with buyers increasingly seeking more affordable options from larger retailers, including those in the big box sector like Costco.
Costco’s new gas station is part of a broader expansion strategy within Southern California, which also includes plans for a new Costco store in Lake Forest. Experts in the energy sector, such as David Hackett, believe that the gas-only model may successfully cater to the evolving demand for more fuel stations across California, where consumers are increasingly budget-conscious when purchasing fuel.
The decision to establish a standalone gas station, absent of retail or convenience store offerings, distinguishes Costco from its competitors, who typically rely on additional sales for revenue. The new gasoline facility underscores Costco’s commitment to providing value to its members while responding to market trends indicative of a growing need for affordable fuel options.
As the construction timeline progresses, local residents and Costco members can look forward to the eventual opening of this convenience-enhancing, price-competitive resource in their community, affording them easier access to lower-priced fuel options in a market where fuel costs can be burdensome.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- SFGate: Costco’s First Stand-Alone Gas Station
- Wikipedia: Costco
- OC Register: Costco to Build Standalone Gas Station
- Google Search: Costco gas station Mission Viejo
- CSP Daily News: Costco’s First Standalone Gas Station
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Retail
- Patch: Costco to Build First Standalone Gas Station
- Google News: Costco gas station California
