I want to assure Sussex County’s residents that Costco is committed to opening a store at Atlantic Fields, subject to receiving the necessary approvals. We chose the Atlantic Fields site because it would provide the shortest, most efficient drive for the greatest number of Sussex County residents. This site benefits from its proximity to the greater population and is facilitated by DelDOT’s improved road network, which accommodates commercial and residential growth. We would not ask Costco members to make the long drive to less-populated areas of the county; a successful member experience should be convenient.
I also want to correct what has been said about retail salaries and Costco specifically. Newly hired part-time Costco employees start at a minimum of $20 per hour with a guarantee of 24 hours per week. Currently, the average salary for an hourly employee is $32 per hour. As an employee’s tenure grows, a full-time cashier’s annual salary after 10 years can reach $70,300 in current dollars. Employees who are promoted into more senior roles hold the potential for higher compensation. All employees working more than 23 hours per week are eligible for Costco’s package of core medical, dental, vacation and other benefits – at present, 94% of the company’s employees are eligible. Costco’s mission to take care of our employees drives us to provide ample opportunities for promotion at much higher salaries and ultimately yields a 91% employee retention rate.
We appreciate the support of many residents and the recommendation from the county’s planning & zoning commission, and hope Costco can be a part of the Sussex County community for many years to come. Providing high-quality retailers, restaurants and service providers in one cohesive, well-planned location also has the potential to alleviate major congestion on Route 1, allowing residents to accommodate multiple retail, dining and service needs in a single trip.
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