In news that is sure to excite shoppers throughout the Hunter Valley, bulk discount warehouse juggernaut Costco has announced its intention to set up shop in Lake Macquarie.
The membership-only chain, and second-largest retailer in the world, has lodged a development application with Lake Macquarie Council for a mammoth 14,000 square-metre warehouse and fuel station on the former Pasminco site at Boolaroo.
When it comes to cornucopias of consumerism, Costco is king. It’s a one-stop shop where you can buy everything from massive bulk jars of nuts to 4K TVs and even the kitchen sink.
Yep, Costco is currently, for example, offering members $100 off a fancy stainless steel kitchen sink at the low, low price of $399.
Bargain!
Costco Wholesale Australia’s Country Manager Patrick Noone said that the company’s $60 million investment in Lake Macquarie would, if approved, generate more than 80 full-time-equivalent jobs during construction and a further 225 full-time jobs once doors open.
“We have been looking for a suitable location for some time in the greater Newcastle area and this site really ticks all of our boxes. Costco sees this region as dynamic and fast-growing and we believe that we can bring great value in relation to a wide range of products and services to the community.”
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said that she was “thrilled” to see the application from Costco.
“The commitment from Costco will continue to spur significant growth in Lake Macquarie City,” Cr Fraser said.
“We know many shoppers from the Hunter, greater Newcastle and Central Coast travel to Sydney to visit Costco stores. I’m confident we will now attract those shoppers to spend their money here, supporting local jobs and boosting the local economy.”
Pending approval, the new warehouse and fuel station are expected to open within 12 months, and we’re already clearing out our pantries in anticipation!
