How did Costco change cake ordering?

The app replaces paperwork for bakery orders

Costco has moved a long-standing in-store chore into customers’ phones: custom cake orders can now be placed through the retailer’s app. Historically, members who wanted a decorated or custom-sized cake had to speak with bakery staff in-store and, in many locations, complete an order on a clipboard or paper form. The app rollout digitizes that process, aiming to simplify ordering and reduce time spent at the bakery counter.

What shoppers will notice

• Convenience: Members can browse cake options, customize basic elements, and submit orders remotely rather than waiting in line.
• Consistency: Digital orders create a record for both customers and staff, which can reduce mistakes caused by handwritten instructions.
• Operational impact: Bakery teams may change how they manage order queues and scheduling as more requests arrive through the app rather than face-to-face.

Why this matters beyond convenience

The change signals how a big-box grocer is modernizing a seemingly small but common task to improve the customer experience. For busy shoppers it removes a friction point; for Costco it streamlines fulfillment and may reduce errors. However, rollout details vary by store and the company hasn’t said when the app-based ordering will be available at every location. It’s also unclear how the app handles highly customized designs or last-minute in-store changes, so some bakery interactions may still require speaking with staff directly.