12 mind-blowing facts about Costco's business

• Costco has attracted a cult following among shoppers since it first opened its doors in 1983.
• But the retailer didn't build up that reputation overnight.
• Costco is a massive global operation, with locations, employees, and members all over the world.
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Costco is commonly labeled as a retailer with a cult-like following.

But the company is far from a sleepeer hit with consumers.

Read more: Here's what Costco workers are actually looking for when they check your receipt at the exit

Since launching in 1983, Costco has expanded to become a global powerhouse in the retail business.

The company's 2018 10-K form filed with the SEC provides plenty of hard facts demonstrating Costco's mind-boggling scale.

Here are a few mind-blowing facts about Costco: