Costco shoppers ‘upset’ as fan-favorite item is discontinued in store

Costco shoppers are expressing their disappointment as the retailer has reportedly discontinued a popular item.
The wholesaler is reportedly no longer carrying the Kirkland Signature chocolate chips. Instead, the company has replaced them with Nestle brand chocolate chips.
The decision has sparked outrage on Reddit, where fans of the Kirkland brand have praised not only its superior flavor but also its dairy-free, coconut-free, and Kosher attributes.
One user lamented: “They are seriously the best chocolate chip ever. I use them for chocolate fondue, chocolate pudding, brownies, [chocolate chip] cookies, drinking chocolate. Anything chocolate-it’s my only go to! Nothing else compares and I tried to find something as good when they discontinued them a few years back.”
An email from Costco officials leaked online reveals that the rising cost of cocoa is to blame for the discontinuation.
“Yes, we have made the decision to discontinue the Kirkland Signature Chocolate Chips across the company due to the rising costs of cocoa,” the email read.
It noted a 200% increase in cocoa costs since the previous year, affecting all chocolate items. To continue stocking Kirkland chocolate chips, they would need to be priced at $16.99, higher than other retailers’ price for Nestle Toll House at $15.48.
As a result, Costco has struck a deal with Nestle Toll House to supply their chocolate chips at a discounted rate of $13.99, ensuring savings for Costco customers.
In response to the Reddit post, users expressed their grievances, preferring to spend more on tastier chocolate chips.
One person commented: “The Nestle chocolate chips have a much longer ingredient list. I’d rather pay more for a better product and will probably find an alternative to Costco.”
Chocolate chip enthusiasts have a glimmer of hope, as plans suggest the Kirkland Signature brand will eventually return. According to an email, Costco is expected to withhold its house brand chocolate chips from shelves for over a year before reintroducing them.