CHICAGO -- You can head into the next life at a discount -- thanks to Costco.
Costco Wholesalers is testing a lay-away plan, an eternal one. Two Chicago area Costco's are selling caskets as part of test marketing.
Both stories have kiosks where shoppers loading up on other bulk items can also order from six steel models of caskets made by Universal Casket Company in six colors.
The caskets sell for about $800 each.
But there's no cash-and-carry. The store has samples only and delivery takes about 48 hours. Costco can also put shoppers in touch with participating funeral homes.
Reaction from shoppers range from appreciation of the convenience to the creeps.
Costco customer Inga Barth said it's "pretty bizarre." But others liked the idea of being able to shop for caskets long before they're needed.
Costco Wholesalers is testing a lay-away plan, an eternal one. Two Chicago area Costco's are selling caskets as part of test marketing.
Both stories have kiosks where shoppers loading up on other bulk items can also order from six steel models of caskets made by Universal Casket Company in six colors.
The caskets sell for about $800 each.
But there's no cash-and-carry. The store has samples only and delivery takes about 48 hours. Costco can also put shoppers in touch with participating funeral homes.
Reaction from shoppers range from appreciation of the convenience to the creeps.
Costco customer Inga Barth said it's "pretty bizarre." But others liked the idea of being able to shop for caskets long before they're needed.
