The meaty food court frank and fountain drink cost $1.50, unchanged since the 1980s, demonstrating Costco's dedication to value.
Despite decades of inflation and Costco's losses, that pricing has stayed constant. The cheap snack is more of a draw to keep customers.
Costco's founder reportedly threatened CEO Craig Jelinek in 2018: "If you raise the [price of the] effing hot dog, I will kill you."
Jelinek has not lost the price, his life, or his work
He told shareholders at the company's recent meeting that the booming warehouse chain sold 157 million hot dog combos last year.
Now that Sam Club has lowered its price, Jelinek may be tempted to do the same. In November, Sam's Club lowered its hot dog combo to $1.38 to rival Costco.
This week, The Los Angeles Times' high-profile review of both hot dog sellers fueled their rivalry. The competing wieners "tasted virtually identical" but Sam's Club's toppings and soft drinks were "superior"
A verdict that "almost hurts," said food columnist Lucas Kwan Peterson, a longtime Costco member.
After the review, fans on both sides argued online over the hot dogs, soda, and which warehouse club is best.
Steel case, octagonal bezel, & integrated bracelet. The Royal Oak overturned the prevailing codes in 1972 and took its rightful place as a true modern icon.
Steel case, octagonal bezel, & integrated bracelet. The Royal Oak overturned the prevailing codes in 1972 and took its rightful place as a true modern icon.
Steel case, octagonal bezel, & integrated bracelet. The Royal Oak overturned the prevailing codes in 1972 and took its rightful place as a true modern icon.