Unmasking Kirkland: The Big Brands Behind Costco’s Best Buys

Published

8 months ago

June 5, 2024

Money + Investing Staff

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Since its debut in 1995, Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand has consistently provided high-quality products at budget-friendly prices. This strong appeal has led the Kirkland Signature line to make up a significant portion of Costco’s annual sales. While many Costco members have their favorite Kirkland products, few may realize that many of these items are made by major retail manufacturers under the familiar red and black logo.
Costco openly collaborates with various third-party companies to produce its Kirkland Signature goods, which include food items like pizza and cheese as well as household essentials like laundry detergent and motor oil. However, the identities of some of these partners remain a well-kept secret, adding an element of mystery to the origins of these popular products.

Kirkland Signature Jelly Beans – A Collaboration with Jelly Belly

Costco is proud of its collaboration with Jelly Belly to create the Kirkland Signature Jelly Beans. These beans, which are prominently featured on the packaging, offer a delightful variety of flavors at a much lower cost than the standard retail price of Jelly Belly beans.

Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, aged for 24 months and expertly crafted in Italy by Formaggi Zanetti, has become a favorite among cheese lovers. With a price of around $11.79 per pound, it provides exceptional value for genuine Italian cheese, which is famed for its rich flavor and texture.

Kirkland Signature Premium Daily Disposable Contact Lenses by CooperVision

Kirkland Signature Premium Daily Disposable Contact Lenses are crafted by CooperVision, a renowned leader in the contact lens industry. These lenses are known for their exceptional quality and affordability, making vision care accessible for Costco members. Customers can also take advantage of various rebates offered by Costco, further enhancing the appeal of these contact lenses.

Kirkland Signature Big Red Cups for Outdoor Events

Kirkland Signature Big Red Cups are ideal for outdoor gatherings, celebrated for their robustness and superior quality. Manufactured by Chinet, these cups provide a perfect blend of affordability and the dependable performance of a trusted brand.

Kirkland Signature Chocolate Almonds: A Beloved Treat

Produced by Blommor Chocolate, a premier chocolate manufacturer in North America, Kirkland Signature Chocolate Almonds have become a favorite among Costco shoppers. These delectable almonds are cherished for their high quality and excellent value.

Prosecco – Veneto

Kirkland Signature Asolo Prosecco showcases the exceptional quality of the Veneto region in Italy. Priced at approximately $7, this sparkling wine offers an economical choice for those looking to enjoy a celebratory and pleasant drink without a high cost.

Kirkland Signature Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil – Manufactured by Warren Oil Company

Costco features Kirkland Signature Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil, produced by Warren Oil Company, renowned for its superior oil quality. As one of Costco’s top-selling items, this motor oil highlights the retailer’s dedication to offering premium automotive products at affordable rates.

Quality and Value of Kirkland Signature Hot Dogs

Kirkland Signature hot dogs, speculated to be manufactured by Hebrew National, provide excellent quality at a reasonable price. These hot dogs are known for their delightful taste and affordability, making them a popular option for backyard grilling.

Kirkland Signature Professional Salon Formula Shampoo and Conditioner

The Kirkland Signature Professional Salon Formula Shampoo and Conditioner, believed to be produced by L’Oreal Pureology, provide a luxurious hair care experience. These products are free from sulfates and parabens, and are 100% vegan, making them an ideal choice for individuals looking for high-quality and ethical beauty solutions.

Laundry Detergent – Persil

It is widely speculated, though not officially confirmed, that Kirkland’s Ultra Clean Premium Laundry Detergent Pacs are manufactured by Persil. Consumer Reports has highly rated this detergent, noting its effectiveness and value. This speaks to Costco’s dedication to providing top-quality products at more affordable prices.

Kirkland Signature Sliced Bacon: A Top-Rated Choice

Kirkland Signature Sliced Bacon stands out for its exceptional balance of meat and fat, achieving a perfect crispness that surpasses many popular brands. This high-quality bacon is thought to be supplied by Hormel, a company renowned for its long-standing reputation in the bacon industry.

Kirkland Signature Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution

Manufactured by BioTru, Kirkland Signature Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution delivers the same high-quality ingredients as brand-name solutions but at a much lower price. This product is a testament to Costco’s commitment to offering value without compromising on quality.

Kirkland Signature vs. Charmin: A Comparison of Toilet Paper Quality

Kirkland Signature toilet paper is widely recognized for its softness and strength, often drawing comparisons to the more costly Charmin brand. While Costco has not officially verified this comparison, customers consistently opt for Kirkland due to its unmistakable quality and comfort.

Cost-Effective Diaper Option for New Parents

For many new parents, Kirkland brand diapers are a lifesaver, offering significant savings without sacrificing quality. Though unconfirmed, it’s believed that these diapers are manufactured by Kimberly-Clark, the company behind the well-known Huggies brand, providing reliable performance at a lower cost.

Kirkland Signature Honey – Sourced from Rice’s Honey

Costco’s Kirkland Signature 100% U.S. Raw Unfiltered Honey is sourced from Rice’s Honey. Since 1924, Rice’s Honey has been collaborating with local American beekeepers to ensure a high-quality, pure product that supports local industries.

Kirkland Signature Vanilla Ice Cream

Costco collaborates with The Humboldt Creamery to bring you the Kirkland Signature Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream. This delightful treat is crafted using genuine vanilla and fresh milk from California, and has become a beloved choice for members who enjoy its indulgent flavor and smooth consistency.

Kirkland Signature Fuel from Mobile

Kirkland Signature Fuel from Costco, believed to be supplied by Mobile, provides premium gasoline at affordable rates. Shoppers can refuel their cars assured that they are receiving excellent value on a fully reliable product.

Greek Yogurt – Ehrmann

Kirkland Signature Organic Greek Yogurt, believed to be manufactured by the reputed German company Ehrmann, presents an affordable option for health-conscious individuals. This tasty yogurt becomes even more delightful when garnished with Kirkland Signature 100% U.S. Raw Unfiltered Honey, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious and gratifying snack or breakfast.

Kirkland Cranberry Juice – A Costco and Ocean Spray Collaboration

Costco’s collaboration with Ocean Spray has led to the creation of the widely favored Kirkland brand Cranberry Juice, which provides high-quality juice at a more affordable price. This blend balances the tart flavor of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and grapes, resulting in a refreshing drink that pleases the taste buds.

Kirkland Signature Mayonnaise – Hellman’s Connection

Although not officially confirmed, it is widely speculated that Kirkland Signature Mayonnaise is manufactured by Hellman’s. This mayonnaise is a popular item in numerous households, renowned for its smooth texture and the use of 100 percent cage-free eggs.

Diamond Naturals: A Closer Look at Dog Food

Costco’s dedication to quality is evident in its Kirkland Signature pet food line, manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods in the USA. This pet food features real meats and fresh vegetables, ensuring pets enjoy a nutritious and delicious diet.

Kirkland Premium Cheese Pizza – Produced by Palermo

Palermo, a longstanding partner of Costco, produces the Kirkland Premium Cheese Pizza, which has become a customer favorite. This tasty pizza provides both convenience and quality, making it a go-to option for people who enjoy the homemade taste over takeout.

Keurig Cups – Green Mountain

Since 2012, Costco has partnered with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters to offer its members the Kirkland Signature Breakfast Blend and Pacific Bold Keurig Cups. This collaboration brings high-quality, barista-level coffee to your home at a budget-friendly price.

Kirkland Signature American Vodka vs. Grey Goose

The origin of Kirkland Signature American Vodka continues to spark debate, with many suggesting that it is crafted using the same facilities and equipment as the famous Grey Goose. This potential connection underscores the superior quality of Costco’s vodka, providing excellent value for discerning buyers.

Brie Cheese – Isigny Ste-Mère Brie

Costco’s Kirkland Signature Brie Cheese, crafted by the Normandy-based Isigny Ste-Mère, brings a taste of France to your palate with each bite. This creamy Brie becomes an exquisite treat when topped with honey and sugar, then broiled to perfection. It pairs beautifully with a variety of breads and crackers.

Kirkland Signature Foodservice Foil by Reynolds

In partnership with Reynolds, Costco guarantees that its Kirkland Signature Foodservice Foil upholds superior quality standards. The packaging carries the Reynolds logo, assuring customers that they are using a reputable and dependable product from a well-known industry leader.

Spanish Saffron – La Mancha

Kirkland Signature Spanish Saffron, hailing from La Mancha, is celebrated for its exceptional quality and genuine character. This saffron, distinguished by the ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ certification, provides excellent value, delivering gourmet quality at a reasonable price for food lovers.

Balsamic Vinegar – Acetum

Kirkland Signature Balsamic Vinegar is produced by Acetum, a renowned Italian company with over a century of experience. This collaboration, which began in 1999, guarantees Costco members access to high-quality balsamic vinegar at a competitive price.

Organic Berries from Scenic Fruit Company

Kirkland Signature Organic Blueberries, ideal for fans of natural and healthy smoothies, are sourced from the Scenic Fruit Company, which is well-known for its high-quality fresh and frozen fruits. This collaboration guarantees that Costco members can enjoy top-notch organic berries at an excellent price.

Niagara Purified Bottled Water

Kirkland Signature Purified Bottled Water, made in partnership with Niagara Purified, is renowned for its clean and refreshing taste. This product underscores Costco’s dedication to offering high-quality, affordable choices for its customers.

Kirkland Signature Blend Coffee – A Starbucks Collaboration

The delightful flavor of Kirkland Signature Blend Coffee is well-known, as it is expertly roasted by Starbucks Coffee Company. This collaboration enables Costco to provide a premium coffee blend that satisfies coffee lovers’ expectations at a more affordable price.

Kirkland Signature Organic Tortilla Chips – Same Great Taste!

Even though the packaging has been updated, the taste and quality of Kirkland Signature Organic Tortilla Chips, produced by Mission Foods, remain the same. These chips are well-loved for their great crunch and flavor, making them ideal for enjoying with dips such as salsa and guacamole. Moreover, they are offered at an outstanding price.

Kirkland Signature Tuna – Developed with Bumble Bee

Kirkland Signature Tuna, produced in partnership with Bumble Bee, has been carefully crafted to deliver the highest quality canned tuna. Following a year of extensive testing in Puerto Rico, Costco has created a product that is distinguished by its superior taste and quality, frequently available at a significantly lower price.

Duracell’s Batteries

Kirkland Signature Batteries, purportedly made by Duracell, provide impressive longevity and performance at a significantly lower price than premium brands. They are essential for those seeking energy-efficient and budget-friendly power solutions.

Kirkland Signature Fish Oil by Trident Seafoods

Trident Seafoods, the largest seafood company in the United States, produces Kirkland Signature Fish Oil. This premium, sustainably sourced fish oil is offered to Costco members, reflecting the company’s dedication to providing affordable health and wellness products.

Premium Quality Tail-On Shrimp from Kader Exports

Kirkland Signature Tail-On Shrimp, provided by Kader Exports, promises top-tier quality and excellent value. Kader Exports is renowned for delivering shrimp that adheres to the highest industry standards, guaranteeing that Costco members enjoy a superior product at an affordable price.

Mattresses – Stearns & Foster

Costco partners with Stearns & Foster to create the Kirkland Signature Mattresses line, providing substantial savings while maintaining high quality and comfort. These mattresses come in a variety of sizes and offer options like memory foam and gel foam, accommodating diverse preferences and needs.

Kirkland Signature Green Tea by Ito-En

Kirkland Signature Green Tea is crafted by Ito-En, a leading global tea manufacturer. This delightful combination of Sencha and Matcha not only offers numerous health benefits but also provides a refreshing taste. It exemplifies Costco’s commitment to offering high-quality products at exceptional prices.

Rosé – Olivier Sumeire

Kirkland Signature Côte De Provence Rosé is produced in France’s Provence region by Olivier Sumeire, a winemaker with eight generations of expertise. This vibrant and fruity wine is a great option for those wanting to savor quality rosé without spending too much.

Gordon Biersch Craft Beer

Gordon Biersch, the producer of Kirkland Signature Craft Beer, presents a diverse range of flavors such as India Pale Ale, Session IPA, American Pale Ale, and Brown Ale. These options provide a delightful and cost-effective experience, ideal for craft beer lovers.

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