In China, Costco, Sam's Club make play for thrifty shoppers

DALIAN, China -- Membership-based warehouse supermarket chains such as U.S.-based Costco and Sam's Club are growing in China, touting a different shopping experience and product lineup from conventional supermarkets and online retailers. Their low prices also resonate with thrifty Chinese consumers, who have developed hoarding habits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One day in March, a Costco store in the city of Shenzhen bustled with shoppers tossing items large enough to cover their faces into their carts.