At the 2025 New York Automotive Forum—co-hosted by NADA, J.D. Power, and the New York International Auto Show—leaders from every corner of the industry are exploring what’s next for retail and mobility. In an exclusive conversation, CBT News caught up with Casey Ivins, vice president of the Eastern Region for the Costco Auto Program, to learn how the company is expanding its impact on the automotive retail space by connecting millions of Costco members with trusted dealers nationwide.
Key Takeaways:
- Exclusive Dealer Access
The Costco Auto Program offers participating dealers territory exclusivity tied to specific Costco warehouses. This means only one brand-specific dealer is assigned per warehouse, preventing competition within the same area and ensuring loyalty from Costco’s 74 million member households. - Growing EV and Hybrid Demand
Ivins reported a 30% year-over-year increase in hybrid vehicle requests and a 12% jump for battery electric vehicles, reflecting a shift in Costco members’ environmental consciousness. To support this trend, Costco Auto recently launched an EV Marketplace to guide members through ownership and charging options. - Beyond New Cars—Parts, Service & CPO
The program extends beyond new car referrals to include certified pre-owned vehicles, parts, and service. Members receive 15% off retail pricing on service, creating long-term customer value for dealers and encouraging continued engagement after the initial sale.
Catch all of CBT News’ coverage of the NY Automotive Forum 2025 here.
