Costco reports 19% jump in September digital sales, pointing to continued momentum

Costco is indicating continued strength in online shopping, according to market coverage that reported the company’s September 2026 digital sales rose 19%. Digital sales generally refer to revenue generated through e-commerce and related online channels rather than in-store purchases, and they have become a key metric for retailers as customers shift toward delivery and pickup options.

The report tied the increase to what it described as expanded delivery options, which can make it easier for shoppers to buy bulky or time-sensitive items without visiting a warehouse location. It also pointed to personalization, a term commonly used for tailored recommendations or shopping experiences that aim to make online ordering more relevant to each customer.

For Costco, online growth matters because it supports sales beyond foot traffic, especially in periods when store-based demand can vary by season and local conditions. Even when customers keep their primary routine in the warehouse, improved logistics and a more targeted digital experience can influence how often they place additional orders between visits.

The market coverage further framed the September results as extending “strong fiscal 2026 momentum,” suggesting the digital acceleration is not a one-off. The company did not provide, in the market recap itself, additional breakdowns such as regional performance, how much of the growth came from delivery versus pickup, or whether the gains were driven by increased order frequency, higher basket size, or both.

Costco’s approach to e-commerce has typically emphasized operational execution, including fulfillment capabilities and an emphasis on efficient delivery. In that context, expanding delivery coverage and improving the online shopping experience can reduce friction for members, potentially supporting repeat ordering and larger participation in digital channels.

Retailers across the sector are increasingly measured by how well they can translate their value proposition into a digital format, particularly for households that want convenience without sacrificing cost. When a company reports double-digit digital growth, investors and analysts often look for whether that trend is sustained and whether it translates into broader margin stability, though the market post did not address margin detail.

As of this reporting, the available post did not disclose further specifics behind the 19% figure, including any commentary from Costco executives, the size of the digital sales base, or whether the growth reflected changes in pricing, promotions, assortment, or fulfillment capacity.

Still, the headline number provides a clear datapoint for Costco’s online trajectory heading deeper into fiscal 2026. Investors will likely watch for whether Costco continues to report similar growth rates in subsequent months and whether management later adds detail on delivery expansion plans and how personalization is being implemented across its digital platforms.