iinside csoidsetco
Introducing
Costco Concierge
PHOTODISC
A new approach to tech support
COSTCO HAS important news for members
who purchase computers, televisions and
other electronics in the warehouses and at
costco.com: A comprehensive new technical-support program is being unveiled in conjunction with a change in the company’s
return policy.
The reason for the changes is to provide
members with top-quality support for TVs,
projectors, computers, cameras, camcorders,
iPods and MP3 players purchased at Costco,
says Frances Mooney, who oversees the program for Costco. This program, called Costco
Concierge, covers the lifetime of the product
and will be free to Costco members.
“Today’s consumer electronics are more
complex than ever before, offering innovative
features for work and entertainment purposes alike,” says Frances. “At the same time,
they can be confusing to set up and use, even
for tech-savvy people. Costco Concierge will
help members get answers to these questions—and get the most of their electronics.”
Here’s a look at the new program.
■ Costco will accept returns within 90 days
from the date of purchase for TVs, projectors,
computers, cameras, camcorders, iPods and
MP3 players.
■ Costco Concierge toll-free tech support
will cover TVs, projectors, computers, cameras, camcorders, iPods and MP3 players. Tech
support for wireless phones will be provided
by the wireless phone service provider.
■Costco extends the manufacturer’s
warranty on TVs and computers to two years
from the date of purchase. The manufacturer’s
warranty has details on specific coverage terms.
■ Costco will also offer a basic TV setup
plan for $89.99 that covers setting up the TV
and integrating it with existing cable, satel-
lite and audio systems. ( Wall mounting is not
included). This setup plan must be purchased
through costco.com. (Enter “126032” in the
“Search” box and follow the directions.)
One key part of the new program is the
quality of the tech support offered by Costco
Concierge, says Frances. The call centers are
located in the United States, and technicians are
trained specifically to handle Costco products.
“These are expert-level technicians who
can help solve any type of issue our members
have with their electronics,” she says. “And if
they can’t answer a question, they have direct
access to the manufacturer’s tech support to
find a solution for the member.”
In most retail stores, this type of comprehensive technical-support coverage is offered
as an add-on plan that consumers must buy
and renew after a certain number of months.
At Costco, it comes with the purchase of the
product and doesn’t expire.
“All in all, we think this new program
offers a tremendous value for our members,”
says Frances. “This is another service that
we’re offering that sets us apart from other
retailers.”—Tim Talevich
$20 Off, Plus Your
Member Discount!*
• Reserve a compact through
full-size car, minivan or SUV
in the United States, Latin
America, Caribbean or Asia Pacific
• Valid for a rental of at least
four days
• Valid through 12/31/07
Be sure to request I.D. Number 7013605
and Coupon Code AD2589DDQ at time
of reservation.
When picking up your rental car please be
prepared to show your Costco membership
card to the Alamo representative.
Book online at costco.com or
call Costco Travel toll free
at 1-877-849-2730.
Using Costco Concierge
USING THE NEW Costco Concierge tech-support program is easy. Here’s how.
☞ Call toll-free 1-866-861-0450.
☞ Have your Costco membership number on hand. Also have the product’s item
number (printed on the receipt), and its make,
model and date of purchase.
☞ Costco Concierge is open from 5 a.m.
to 10 p.m. Pacific Time, seven days a week,
excluding holidays.
*Discount applies to base rate, which does not include taxes (including
VAT), other governmentally authorized or imposed surcharges, license
recoupment/air tax recovery and concession recoupment fees, airport
and airport facility fees, fuel, one-way rental charge, or optional items.
Offer is subject to standard rental conditions. Blackout dates may
apply. Not valid with any other discount or promotional rate, except
your member discount. Subject to availability and valid only at
participating Alamo locations. Some countries may convert coupon
value into local currency. 24-Hour advance reservations required.
Coupon VOID if bought, bartered or sold for cash. Valid through
12/31/07. Travel purchases are not included in the Executive
Membership 2% Reward program. All prices are in U.S. dollars. Costco
Travel disclaims liability for any inaccuracies or typographical errors.
Costco Travel is a registered seller of travel and travel agency in the
follo wing states: Washington (WS T 02042600); Ohio (8789302); Florida
(Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No.S T32555); and California (CS T 2054248-
50). Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by
the state of California.
Alamo features GM vehicles.
©2007 Vanguard Car Rental USA Inc. All rights reserved.