Costco shoppers no longer have to fill out paper forms in-store to order custom cakes or deli trays.
The retail warehouse giant has launched mobile app ordering for select special-order bakery and deli items, marking a significant shift from its decades-old system.
For years, customers had to visit a physical warehouse, complete a handwritten form, and submit it at the bakery counter to place custom cake orders. The new digital feature is designed to simplify that process and reduce in-store friction.
The update matters for millions of Costco members who rely on the chain for birthdays, graduations, office gatherings and other events.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Event | Location | Date Announced | Who Is Affected | Current Status | What Shoppers Should Know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costco Mobile Ordering for Custom Cakes & Deli Trays | United States (select warehouses expanding) | 2026 rollout | Costco members ordering special items | Available through Costco mobile app | Orders must be placed in advance; availability may vary by store |
What’s Changing: Costco’s Digital Ordering Upgrade
Costco has introduced mobile app ordering for custom cakes and select deli trays, allowing members to submit special requests digitally instead of visiting the store in person.
The feature is available through the Costco mobile app, where customers can choose designs, flavors and pickup dates.
A Costco spokesperson confirmed the shift, saying the company is “continuing to enhance the member experience through digital tools that improve convenience while maintaining our in-warehouse service model.”
The retailer has not eliminated in-store ordering entirely, but the mobile option offers a streamlined alternative.
The Old System: Paper Forms and In-Store Visits
For decades, ordering a custom cake at Costco required customers to physically go to a warehouse location.
Members would fill out a paper form specifying cake size, flavor, frosting color, personalized message and pickup date. The form was then submitted at the bakery counter.
The system worked, but it often led to long waits, misplaced forms and confusion during busy seasons such as graduation and holiday weekends.
Shoppers frequently voiced frustration online, questioning why one of the nation’s largest retailers had not digitized the process sooner.
“It always felt outdated,” said Maria Lopez, a Costco member in California. “You’d think with everything else online, ordering a cake wouldn’t require a pen and paper.”
Why This Matters for Costco Members
Costco operates more than 800 warehouses worldwide, with a large share in the United States.
Special-order cakes and deli trays are popular for birthdays, corporate events and family celebrations. The inability to order digitally stood out in an era when most grocery chains offer online customization and scheduling.
Retail analyst Neil Saunders, managing director at GlobalData, said digital convenience is increasingly expected by consumers.
“Members want flexibility,” Saunders said. “If they can order groceries, electronics and prescriptions online, they expect the same ease for bakery and deli items.”
The mobile ordering feature aligns Costco more closely with competitors that already provide online event catering options.
Timeline: How Costco Modernized Special Orders
Years of Paper-Based Ordering
Costco relied on handwritten forms submitted at bakery counters for custom cakes and party trays.
Growing Customer Feedback
Over time, shoppers raised concerns on social media and community forums about the inconvenience of in-store ordering.
Digital Expansion Across Retail
As e-commerce adoption accelerated, retailers invested heavily in mobile apps and digital services.
2026 Mobile Ordering Rollout
Costco introduced app-based ordering for select bakery and deli items, reducing the need for in-store paperwork.
The company has not specified whether additional customization features will be added later.
How the Costco App Ordering Works
Members can access the feature within the Costco mobile app.
After selecting a participating warehouse, customers can browse available cake designs and deli tray options. Customization fields allow entry of personalized messages and event details.
Orders must typically be placed in advance, often at least 24 to 48 hours before pickup, depending on store policy.
Payment procedures may vary by location, with some warehouses requiring payment at pickup.
Costco has emphasized that availability may differ by store as the rollout continues.
Public Reaction: Relief From Frequent Shoppers
Early reaction among shoppers has been largely positive.
On social media platforms and community forums, members described the change as “long overdue.”
“It saves a separate trip,” said Chicago-based member Daniel Reeves. “For busy families, that’s a big deal.”
Some customers, however, are waiting to see how smoothly the system works during peak ordering periods.
Retail observers note that digital upgrades can reduce in-store bottlenecks, especially during graduation season and major holidays.
Broader Digital Strategy at Costco
Costco has historically taken a measured approach to digital transformation compared to other major retailers.
While the company operates a strong e-commerce platform, much of its brand identity centers on the in-warehouse experience.
Still, mobile app usage has grown steadily, offering digital membership cards, purchase history tracking and warehouse inventory checks.
Adding custom cake and deli tray ordering signals a continued investment in digital tools without abandoning Costco’s core in-store model.
A Costco representative said the company aims to “balance convenience with the value-driven warehouse experience members expect.”
What Happens Next?
The rollout is expected to expand to more warehouse locations over time.
Costco has not announced plans to introduce home delivery for custom cakes, and pickup remains the standard option.
Members are encouraged to check the app for availability at their local warehouse.
As digital features expand, Costco may continue refining its app capabilities based on customer feedback and usage patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a Costco custom cake online now?
Yes. Many locations now allow custom cake orders through the Costco mobile app.
Do I still need to visit the store to order?
No. The new app feature eliminates the need to fill out a paper form in-store, though pickup is still required.
Are all Costco warehouses offering mobile ordering?
Availability may vary by location as the rollout continues.
How far in advance do I need to order?
Most warehouses require at least 24 to 48 hours’ notice.
Can I pay through the app?
Payment policies vary by store. Some locations may require payment at pickup.
Are deli trays included in the app ordering system?
Yes. Select deli trays are available for mobile ordering alongside custom cakes.
Closing
Costco’s move to mobile app ordering for custom cakes and deli trays marks a shift away from its long-standing paper-based system.
For members planning events, the change reduces extra store visits and simplifies the ordering process.
As the rollout expands, shoppers will likely watch how smoothly the digital feature performs during high-demand seasons.
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