Does Costco own Duracell?
Costco, a membership-based American multinational retailer, is known for its warehouse clubs and discounted prices. One of the popular items sold at Costco is their Kirkland Signature batteries, which are widely believed to be manufactured by Duracell. But the question remains: Does Costco own Duracell?
The Short Answer
Yes, Costco owns Duracell. At least, that’s what an interview with Costco’s CEO, Craig Jelinek, revealed in 2016. According to Jelinek, Duracell is the manufacturer of Kirkland Signature batteries. However, it’s important to note that this statement is not universally accepted, and some sources may disagree with this claim.
History of Duracell and Costco
Duracell was founded in 1940 by Samuel Ruben and Philip Mallory as the P. R. Mallory Company. Over the years, the company went through several changes and mergers until it became a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway in 1992. Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, has maintained its ownership of Duracell since then.
Costco, on the other hand, was founded in 1983 by James Sinegal and Jeffrey H. Brotman. The company initially focused on selling bulk merchandise to small businesses, but it soon expanded to catering to individual consumers. In 2012, Costco acquired the membership-based discount retailer, Price Club.
Kirkland Signature Batteries
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s in-house brand, offering a range of products including food, household items, personal care products, and electronics. One of the most popular items under this brand is their batteries, including AA, AAA, C, and D batteries.
While Costco does not disclose the exact manufacturer of their Kirkland Signature batteries, an interview with a Duracell executive revealed that Duracell manufactures some of these batteries. Additionally, the packaging of Kirkland Signature batteries often includes information about the battery’s capacity and voltage, which matches the specifications of Duracell batteries.
Table of Kirkland Signature Batteries vs. Duracell Batteries
| Characteristics | Kirkland Signature Batteries | Duracell Batteries |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Duracell (supplied to Costco) | Duracell |
| Battery Type | AA, AAA, C, D | AA, AAA, C, D |
| Capacity | Up to 2700 mAh | Up to 2700 mAh |
| Voltage | 1.5V | 1.5V |
| Lifespan | Up to 10 years | Up to 10 years |
Other Benefits of Kirkland Signature Batteries
Besides being cost-effective, Kirkland Signature batteries offer several benefits over other battery brands:
• Long-lasting performance: Kirkland Signature batteries have a long lifespan, ensuring that they remain reliable even after repeated use.
• Environmentally friendly: The batteries are made with eco-friendly materials and have a lower environmental impact.
• Guarantee: Kirkland Signature batteries come with a 1-year warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Value for money: Compared to other battery brands, Kirkland Signature batteries offer competitive pricing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is unclear whether Costco outright owns Duracell, it is evident that Costco sources its batteries from Duracell. The similarity between Kirkland Signature batteries and Duracell batteries suggests a close partnership between the two companies. Additionally, the benefits of Kirkland Signature batteries, such as long-lasting performance and environmentally friendly materials, make them a popular choice among customers.