Despite persistent online speculation that the name “Costco” refers to “China Off Shore Trading Company,” Costco actually stands for nothing. This myth has been disproven on numerous occasions.
Costco does not stand for anything, and the company is not owned by a Chinese entity, contrary to widespread Internet belief. Like many other stores, it carries merchandise manufactured in China. Costco, which has been around since 1976, is a warehouse club where members may buy in bulk at a discount. The corporation is still wholly American-owned and headquartered in Washington.
