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ISSAQUAH, Wash. — Claudine Adamo was named Costco’s executive vice president and chief operating officer for merchandising in February 2022. She succeeded Ron Vachris, who is now chief executive officer, when he was promoted to president and chief operating officer of the retailer.
Adamo joined Costco in 1992 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University. She started out as an hourly employee in Costco’s Kirkland warehouse, working in the membership and security department.
Adamo became a buyer in 1996 and gained experience in several different areas of the business, including business delivery, e-commerce and consumer electronics. In 2004 she was appointed assistant vice president and general merchandise manager and moved to Los Angeles to open the company’s regional nonfoods buying office. In 2013 she returned to Seattle and was promoted to vice president of the home division. After overseeing consumer electronics, office and jewelry, she was named senior VP of merchandising, nonfoods and e-commerce, in 2018. She held that post until she was promoted to her current role in 2022.
At Costco, merchandising is the engine that drives the retailer’s ongoing success in good times and bad. The Costco business model involves offering a limited selection of national brands and quality private label products at extremely low prices and exceptional value, with gross margin limited to no more than 15%.
Adamo and her merchant teams remain focused on delivering the newness and excitement for which Costco merchandising has long been known. Another priority is further integrating technology and e-commerce strategies into the merchandising process. The ultimate goal, she says, is to enhance the customer shopping experience both in the warehouses and online. Adamo is also committed to expanding the company’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
