Key Points Costco skips grocery bags to keep prices low, reducing operating costs that could otherwise increase product prices. Not only do shopping bags contribute to waste, they would also result in higher operating costs—and, ultimately, higher product pricing.” Speed and easier checkout might also be a factorAnother significant factor at play behind Costco’s decision to avoid shopping bags might also have to do with the brand’s plans to ensure the fastest checkout time possible. Bottom lineCostco’s overarching goal is to keep costs low while also delivering the most stress-free shopping experiences customers could hope for. To this end, the absence of shopping bags inside the store helps the brand fulfills this mission.