Get ready, Perth – a retail revolution is coming to the north! The highly anticipated Costco in Alkimos is one step closer to becoming a reality, and it’s not just a store; it’s a game-changer for the region. Detailed plans are now up for public review, and here’s where it gets exciting: this won’t just be any Costco. Spanning 14,234sqm, it’ll be slightly larger than its Perth Airport sibling and strategically located on Romeo Road, just a stone’s throw from the Alkimos train station. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing – it’s not just about bulk groceries and electronics. This Costco will feature a sushi bar, bakery, rotisserie, optometrist, hearing aid services, and even a tyre repair center. Yes, you read that right – a one-stop shop for everything from fresh sushi to car maintenance. And this is the part most people miss: it’s also set to include a fuel station, though strictly for petrol, with no convenience store attached. Is this the future of retail, or overkill? Let’s discuss.
Operating hours are tailored for convenience: 10am-8:30pm weekdays, 9am-6:30pm Saturdays, and 10am-6pm Sundays, with a whopping 870 parking bays to handle the expected crowds. With plans to employ around 250 staff, it’s a significant boost for local jobs. But here’s the kicker: Alkimos is projected to hit 45,000 residents by 2035, making this Costco a cornerstone of the booming northern corridor. It’ll anchor the new 24ha Home X Trade Hub, where the Government is already eyeing 17 additional commercial lots. Will this turn Alkimos into the next retail hotspot, or is it too much too soon?
Costco’s Australian journey began in 2009, with its first Perth store opening at the airport in 2020, followed by Casuarina in 2022. Chris Tingman, Costco’s country manager for Australia and New Zealand, called Alkimos a ‘dynamic and fast-growing’ area last October, emphasizing the company’s focus on locations close to members and large enough for their expansive offerings. But here’s the controversial bit: while Costco’s membership-only model has loyal fans, some argue it excludes those who can’t afford the annual fee. Is Costco’s bulk-buy paradise truly for everyone, or does it favor a specific demographic?
Meanwhile, the Alkimos Local Shopping Centre, approved last December, is also set to shake things up with a supermarket, liquor store, childcare center, medical facilities, and more. With public consultation open until March 13 through the City of Wanneroo, now’s your chance to have your say. The Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel will then decide its fate. Will this Costco be a welcome addition or a disruptive force? Share your thoughts below – we want to hear from you!
