A year on from the ousting of Assad

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  Damascus, Syria — “Hold your head high, you’re a free Syrian.” The refrain of this Arabic song—now widely embraced as the unofficial anthem of a new Syria—echoes throughout Damascus. It blares from market loudspeakers, rings out during celebrations in the central square, and is even sung by the man offering traditional coffee to new arrivals at the airport. For decades, many Syrians lived with lowered gazes under the authoritarian rule of the Al-Assad family. The regime maintained an expansive surveillance system in which the feared Mukhabarat , the intelligence network, kept the population in check. Remaining silent was often the safest choice—until the Arab Spring ignited an uprising, and Assad’s fierce response plunged the nation into a ten-year civil war. Today, Syrians are openly and energetically marking the first anniversary of what they regard as their liberation from Assad’s government. The celebration follows a rapid rebel offensive on December 8 last year, led by fo...
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Costco Business Center, once known primarily as a wholesale destination for restaurants and small businesses


 Costco Business Center, once known primarily as a wholesale destination for restaurants and small businesses, is quickly gaining traction among everyday shoppers as inflation and rising food costs push consumers to look for larger quantities and lower prices.

Industry analysts say foot traffic at Costco Business Center locations has increased steadily over the past two years, driven by families, meal-preppers, event planners, and bulk-buying enthusiasts who prefer the early hours, broader food selection, and business-focused inventory.

A Different Kind of Costco

Unlike traditional Costco warehouses, Costco Business Centers operate with a streamlined, no-frills model designed to support high-volume purchasing. They typically open as early as 4–6 AM, offer faster checkout, and stock thousands of products not sold at regular Costco stores.

Shoppers will not find optical centers, bakeries, pharmacies, or the popular Costco gas stations at these locations. Instead, the aisles are lined with industrial-sized packaging, restaurant equipment, vending machine snacks, and commercial-grade meats.

Inventory Tailored to Businesses — but Available to Everyone

Despite the name, no special business membership is required. Any Costco member can walk in and purchase from the expanded inventory, which includes:

  • Restaurant-grade meats and wholesale seafood

  • 50-pound bags of flour, rice, and sugar

  • Gallon-sized condiments and sauces

  • Commercial kitchen tools and appliances

  • Office cleaning supplies

  • Bulk beverages and energy drinks

  • Vending machine snacks and candy boxes

Retail analysts say this inventory is one of the biggest attractions for households looking to stretch grocery budgets.

Why Shoppers Are Turning to Business Centers

Consumer behavior experts point to three main reasons for the shift:

1. Lower Cost Per Unit

Business Centers sell in larger quantities, which often results in lower per-item pricing compared to regular Costco warehouses.

2. Faster, Less Crowded Shopping

With fewer casual shoppers and no weekend rush, many families report a calmer, more efficient experience.

3. Unique Products Not Found Elsewhere

Thousands of SKUs are exclusive to Costco Business Centers, including commercial paper goods, industrial spices, and multiple beverage varieties.

Limitations Remain

Despite the growing popularity, Costco Business Centers are not without drawbacks. Most notably, the locations do not include:

  • Gas stations

  • Pharmacies

  • Tire centers

  • Hearing or optical departments

  • Rotisserie chickens or bakery items

Additionally, quantities may be too large for small households, and availability is limited to select cities across the U.S.

The Bottom Line

As inflation continues to shape shopping habits, Costco Business Center is emerging as a valuable resource not just for businesses but for everyday families seeking bulk savings and less crowded aisles. With expanded hours, unique inventory, and strong per-unit pricing, the centers are expected to continue drawing new customers through 2025 and beyond.

Location: United States

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