"This year, the beloved combo turned 40. While the meal has changed slightly over the decades - the hot dog is now made by Kirkland Signature instead of Hebrew National, and the soda has shifted from Coke to Pepsi and back to Coke - it's the same price today as it was in 1985. And that's what matters most to its loyal fans."
"On a recent weekday afternoon at the Costco on 10th Street in San Francisco, shoppers were huddled around tables eating their hot dogs in the bustling food court. "I was just craving it today," said Briana Aleman of Pittsburg, who was shopping with her boyfriend, Dominick Sanchez of San Francisco. Sanchez was enjoying the chicken bake, but agreed with his girlfriend that the hefty hot dog on a sesame-topped bun is both craveable and a steal."
The $1.50 Costco hot dog and soda combo has maintained the same $1.50 price since 1985 and celebrated its 40th anniversary. The hot dog supplier and soda brand have changed over the decades while the combo price remained constant. Former CEO Jim Sinegal reportedly vowed to prevent any price increase. Members show fervent loyalty through merchandise, tattoos, and ritualized purchases. Customers cite craveability and exceptional value as reasons for frequent purchases. One member even hid a positive pregnancy test inside a hot dog. The combo is the food court's top seller, exceeding 245 million combos sold in fiscal 2025.
Read at SFGATE
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