Costco is set to ease a long-standing inconvenience for customers with the introduction of digital cake ordering through its app, a change expected to roll out in 2026. This highly anticipated update means members can now order custom cakes and deli trays from the comfort of their homes, transforming an often cumbersome process into a streamlined digital experience.
The announcement was made during Costco’s Q1 2026 earnings call in December 2025, where CEO Ron Vachris shared that the decision to implement these changes was driven by customer feedback. Vachris highlighted that many services that were previously seen as cumbersome are now moving into a more user-friendly digital format, showing strong initial engagement from users. “Many of the things that we’ve heard from our members that could be a little bit clunky are now moving to a digital state, and we’re seeing great adoption right out of the chute,” he stated.
Historically, ordering a custom cake involved visiting a Costco location, filling out paperwork, and then returning to pick it up—an inconvenient task, especially for busy families. Customers often expressed frustration over this method, which necessitated making two trips to the store. Anecdotes from social media platforms, such as a Reddit thread, revealed that some customers relied on friends who lived closer to Costco to help with the ordering process, underscoring the hassle involved.
Competitors like Sam’s Club have already adopted similar features, making Costco’s lag in digital convenience a notable point of criticism among its members. However, the upcoming app update appears to be a step in the right direction toward modernizing Costco’s services while enhancing customer satisfaction.
Some users have reported that the app was already being updated as early as August 2025, showing glimpses of functionality that allowed for customizable cake shapes. Responses from enthusiastic customers affirm the positive sentiment surrounding this innovation, with one commenter humorously noting how it would spare them from incurring additional expenses just to place an order.
As Costco continues to adapt to the needs of its members, this digital enhancement promises to not only simplify the ordering process but also help solidify the retailer’s presence in an increasingly digital shopping landscape, making it a win-win for both the company and its customers.