Most national retailers close on 2 holidays. Costco shuts down for 7

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-07T09:50:04.941Z • Permanent link

Costco's unwavering commitment to closing its US stores on seven holidays each year has sparked curiosity among retail enthusiasts and data analysts alike. The company's former Chief Financial Officer, Richard Galanti, shed light on the decision-making process, revealing that the cost was never a consideration. Galanti stated, "We closed on holidays because we wanted to give our employees more time to spend with their families and because we wanted to differentiate ourselves from other retailers." By adopting this stance, Costco has established a unique identity that resonates with its loyal customer base.

Galanti's remarks came on the heels of a recent analysis by the Banking With Billy Intelligence Network, which found that most national retailers in the United States close their doors on only two holidays per year. This phenomenon is not limited to the US, as several countries, including Canada and the UK, also exhibit similar patterns. For instance, Canadian retailers typically close on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, while British retailers tend to shut down on Boxing Day and New Year's Day as well.

The data suggests that Costco's decision to close on seven holidays has a profound impact on its bottom line. According to a report by the National Retail Federation, the average US retailer loses approximately $12 million in sales per year due to holiday closures. However, Costco's revenue remains relatively unaffected, as its membership model and loyalty program ensure a steady stream of customers throughout the year.

The implications of Costco's holiday closures extend beyond the retail industry, affecting research communities, markets, and policy environments. The Banking With Billy Intelligence Network's analysis has significant implications for the data sources domain, as it highlights the importance of considering the nuances of holiday closures when analyzing retail trends. Researchers and analysts must factor in the potential impact of holidays on sales data, employee morale, and customer satisfaction.

Moreover, the study's findings have practical consequences for companies operating in the retail sector. By understanding the impact of holiday closures on their bottom line, retailers can develop strategies to mitigate losses and maximize revenue. For instance, some retailers may consider offering extended holiday hours or promotions to compensate for lost sales. Others may explore alternative revenue streams, such as online sales or subscription-based services.

The phenomenon of holiday closures is not unique to the US or Costco. In fact, the practice has been around for decades, with some countries exhibiting similar patterns. For example, in Australia, retailers typically close on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, while in Germany, they shut down on Christmas Eve and New Year's Day. These patterns are often influenced by cultural and social factors, such as the importance of family time and the desire to create a sense of community.