UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

For the fiscal year ended August 30, 200929, 2010

OR

Commission file number 0-20355

Costco Wholesale Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA 98027

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:(425) 313-8100

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. YESx    NO¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. YES¨    NOx

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES x    NO¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YES ¨x    NO¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). YES ¨    NOx

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant at February 15, 200914, 2010 was $18,392,604,029$25,866,245,752

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of October 2, 20091, 2010 was 435,989,212432,333,947

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on January 28, 2010,27, 2011, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 30, 200929, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. They include statements that address activities, events, conditions or developments that we expect or anticipate may occur in the future. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events, results, or performance to differ materially from those indicated by such statements. See Item 1A—Risk Factors for a discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect our business.

PART I

Item 1—Business

Costco Wholesale Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Costco” or the “Company”) began operations in 1983 in Seattle, Washington. In October 1993, we merged with The Price Company, which had pioneered the membership warehouse concept, to form Price/Costco, Inc., a Delaware corporation. In January 1997, after the spin-off of most of our non-warehouse assets to Price Enterprises, Inc., we changed our name to Costco Companies, Inc. On August 30, 1999, we reincorporated from Delaware to Washington and changed our name to Costco Wholesale Corporation. Our common stock trades on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “COST.”

General

We operate membership warehouses based on the concept that offering our members low prices on a limited selection of nationally branded and selected private-label products in a wide range of merchandise categories will produce high sales volumes and rapid inventory turnover. This rapid inventory turnover, when combined with the operating efficiencies achieved by volume purchasing, efficient distribution and reduced handling of merchandise in no-frills, self-service warehouse facilities, enables us to operate profitably at significantly lower gross margins than traditional wholesalers, mass merchandisers, supermarkets, and supercenters.

We buy the majority of our merchandise directly from manufacturers and route it to a cross-docking consolidation point (“depot”) or directly to our warehouses. Our depots receive container-based shipments from manufacturers and reallocate these goods for shipment to our individual warehouses, generally in less than twenty-four hours. This maximizes freight volume and handling efficiencies, lowering our receiving costs by eliminating many of the costs associated with traditional multiple-step distribution channels. Such traditional steps include purchasing from distributors as opposed to manufacturers, use of central receiving, storing and distributing warehouses, and storage of merchandise in locations off the sales floor.

Because of our high sales volume and rapid inventory turnover, we generally have the opportunity to sell and be paid for inventory before we are required to pay many of our merchandise vendors, even though we take advantage of early payment discounts whenever available to us.when available. To the extent that sales increase and inventory turnover becomes more rapid, a greater percentage of inventory is financed through payment terms provided by suppliers rather than by our working capital.

Our typical warehouse format averages approximately 143,000 square feet; newer units tend to be larger. Floor plans are designed for economy and efficiency in the use of selling space, the handling of merchandise, and the control of inventory. Because shoppers are attracted principally by the quality of merchandise and the availability of low prices, our warehouses need not have elaborate facilities. By strictly controlling the entrances and exits of our warehouses and using a membership format, we have limited inventory losses (shrinkage) to less than two-tenths of one percent of net sales in the last several fiscal years—well below those of typical discount retail operations.

Item 1—Business (Continued)

We generally limit marketing and promotional activities to new warehouse openings, occasional direct mail to prospective new members, and regular direct marketing programs (such as The Costco Connection, a magazine we publish for our members, coupon mailers, weekly email blasts from costco.com, and handouts) to existing members promoting selected merchandise. These practices result in lower marketing expenses as compared to typical retailers. In connection with new warehouse openings, our marketing teams personally contact businesses in the area that are potential wholesalebusiness members. These contacts are supported by direct mailings during the period immediately prior to opening. Potential Gold Star (individual) members are contacted by direct mail or by membership offerings distributed through employee associations and other entities. After a membership base is established in an area, most new memberships result from word-of-mouth advertising, follow-up messages distributed through employee groups, and ongoing direct solicitations to prospective members.

Our warehouses generally operate on a seven-day, 69-hour week, open weekdays between 10:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., with earlier closing hours on the weekend. Gasoline operations generally have extended hours. Because the hours of operation are shorter than those of traditional retailers, discount retailers and supermarkets, and due to other efficiencies inherent in a warehouse-type operation, labor costs are lower relative to the volume of sales. Merchandise is generally stored on racks above the sales floor and displayed on pallets containing large quantities, of each item, thereby reducing labor required for handling and stocking.

Our merchandising strategy is to provide our members with a broad range of high quality merchandise at prices consistently lower than they can obtain elsewhere. We seek to limit specific items in each product line to fast-selling models, sizes and colors. Therefore, we carry an average of approximately 3,8003,900 active stock keeping units (SKUs) per warehouse in our core warehouse business, as opposed to 45,000 to 140,000 SKUs or more at discount retailers, supermarkets, and supercenters. Many consumable products are offered for sale only in case, carton, or multiple-pack quantities only.

In keeping with our policy of member satisfaction, we generally accept returns of merchandise. On certain electronic items, we have a 90-day return policy in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom and provide, free of charge, technical support services, as well as an extended warranty.

The following table indicates the approximate percentage of net sales accounted for by major category of items:

Item 1—Business (Continued)

Ancillary businesses within or next to our warehouses provide expanded products and services and encourage members to shop more frequently. The following table indicates the number of ancillary businesses in operation at fiscal year end:

Costco Mexico, our 50%-owned joint venture, operated 32 warehouses under our oversight, at August 30, 2009.29, 2010. We have contractual responsibility for executive, management and functional duties and operations of Costco Mexico. The Costco Mexico warehouses are not included in the table above as Costco Mexico is accounted for using the equity method of accounting for investments.

Our electronic commerce businesses, costco.com in the U.S. and costco.ca in Canada, provide our members additional products generally not found in our warehouses, in addition to services such as digital photo processing, pharmacy, travel, and membership services.

Our warehouses accept cash, checks, certain debit cards, American Express and a private label Costco credit card. Losses associated with dishonored checks have been minimal, as members who have issued dishonored checks are identified and prevented from making payments at the point of salefurther purchases until restitution is made.

We have direct buying relationships with many producers of national brand-name merchandise. We do not obtain a significant portion of merchandise from any one supplier. We have not experienced any difficulty in obtaining sufficient quantities of merchandise, and believe that if one or more of our current sources of supply became unavailable, we would be able to obtain alternative sources without substantial disruption of our business. We also purchase selected private label merchandise, as long as quality and customer demand are comparable and the value to our members is greater as compared to name brand items.

Certain financial information for our segments and geographic areas is included in Note 12 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

We report on a 52/53-week fiscal year, consisting of thirteen four-week periods and ending on the Sunday nearest the end of August. The first three quarters consist of three periods each, and the fourth quarter consists of four periods (five weeks in the thirteenth period in a 53-week year). There is noThe material seasonal impact onin our operations exceptis an increased level of net sales and earnings during the winter holiday season. References to 2010, 2009, 2008, and 20072008 relate to the 52-week fiscal years ended August 29, 2010, August 30, 2009, and August 31, 2008, and September 2, 2007, respectively.

Membership Policy

Our membership format is designed to reinforce customer loyalty and provide a continuing source of membership fee revenue, which allows us to offer lower prices.revenue. Members can utilize their memberships

Item 1—Business (Continued)

at any Costco warehouse location in any country. We have two primary types of members: Business and Gold Star (individual). We continue to experience strongOur member renewal rates,rate, currently at 87%.88% in the U.S. and Canada, is consistent with recent years. Businesses, including individuals with a business license, retail sales license or other evidence of business existence, may become Business members. Business members generally pay an annual membership fee of $50 for the primary and spousehousehold membership card, with add-on membership cards available for an annual fee of $40 (including a free spousehousehold card). Many of our business members also shop at Costco for their personal needs. Individual memberships (Gold Star memberships) are available to individuals who do not qualify for a Business membership, for an annual fee of $50, which includes a spousehousehold card.

Our membership base was made up of the following (in thousands):

These numbers exclude approximately 2,800, 2,800, and 2,7002,900 cardholders of Costco Mexico at the end of 2010, and 2,800 cardholders at the end of 2009 2008, and 2007, respectively.2008.

Executive membership is available to all members, with the exception of Business Add-on members, in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom for an annual fee of approximately $100. The program, in the U.S. and Canada, offers additional savings and benefits on various business and consumer services, offered by Costco, such as merchant credit-card processing, auto and home insurance, business telephone service,the Costco auto purchase program, and check printing services. The services are generally provided by third-parties and vary by country and state. In addition, Executive members qualify for a 2% annual reward (which can be redeemed at Costco warehouses), up to a maximum of approximately $500 per year, on all qualified purchases made at Costco. At the end of 2010, 2009, 2008, and 2007,2008, Executive members represented 29%36%, 26%33%, and 23%30%, respectively, of our primary membership base.base that was eligible for the program. Executive members generally spend more than other members, and the percentage of our net sales attributable to these members continues to increase. In 2008, Costco Mexico launched an Executive Membership program similar to the program in the U.S. and Canada.

Labor

Our employee count approximated:

These numbers exclude approximately 9,000 individuals who were employed by Costco Mexico at the end of 2010, 2009, 2008 and 2007.2008. Approximately 13,50013,200 hourly employees in certain of our locations (all former Price Company locations) in five states are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. All remaining employees are non-union. We consider our employee relations to be very good.

Item 1—Business (Continued)

Competition

Our industry is highly competitive, based on factors such as price, merchandise quality and selection, warehouse location and member service. Over 1,200We compete with 800 warehouse club locations exist across the U.S. and Canada including our 483 North American warehouses,(Wal-Mart’s Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club), and every major metropolitan area has severalmultiple club operations. In addition, to other membership warehouse operators such as Wal-Mart’s Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club, we compete with a wide range of national and regional retailers and wholesalers, including supermarkets, supercenters, general merchandise chains, specialty chains, and gasoline stations, as well as electronic commerce businesses,businesses. Competitors such as Amazon. Wal-Mart, Target, Kohl’s and Kohl’sAmazon are among our significant general merchandise retail competitors. We also compete with low-cost operators selling a single category or narrow range of merchandise, such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, Office Depot, PetSmart, Staples, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Best Buy and Barnes & Noble. Our international operations face similar competitors.

Regulation

Certain state laws require that we apply minimum markups to our selling prices for specific goods, such as tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and gasoline. While compliance with such laws may cause us to charge higher prices, other retailers are also typically governed by the same restrictions, and we believe that compliance with such laws doescurrently in effect do not have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Certain states, counties, and municipalities have enacted or proposed laws and regulations that would prevent or restrict the operations or expansion plans of certain large retailers and warehouse clubs, including us, within their jurisdictions. We believe that, ifIf enacted, such laws and regulations could have a material adverse affect on our operations.

Intellectual Property

We believe that our trademarks, trade names, copyrights, proprietary processes, trade secrets, patents, trade dress and similar intellectual property add significant value to our business and are important factors in our success. We have invested significantly in the development and protection of our well-recognized brands, including the Costco Wholesale^® series of trademarks and our premium private label brand, Kirkland Signature^®. Kirkland Signature products are premium products offered to our members at prices that are generally lower than those for national brand products. Kirkland Signature products allow us to ensure our quality standards are met, while minimizing costs and differentiating our merchandise offerings from other retailers, and weto generally earn higher margins on sales of Kirkland products.margins. We expect that our private label items will increase their share of our sales in the future. We rely on trademark and copyright law, trade secret protection, and confidentiality and/orand license agreements with our employees and others to protect our proprietary rights. Effective intellectual property protection may not be available in every country in which we operate.

Available Information

Our internet website is www.costco.com. We make available through the Investor Relations section of that site, free of charge, our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Proxy Statements and Forms 3, 4 and 5, and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing such materials with, or furnishing such documents to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The information found on our website is not part of this or any other report filed with or furnished to the SEC.

Item 1—Business (Continued)

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following is a list of the names, ages, and positions of the executive officers of the Company.

All executive officers have 25 or more years of service with the Company, with the exception of Mr. Moulton and Mr. Schutt, each of whom has 24 years of service.

Item 1—Business (Continued)Company.

The Company has adopted a code of ethics for senior financial officers pursuant to Sectionsection 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Copies of the code are available free of charge by writing to Secretary, Costco Wholesale Corporation, 999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA 98027.

Item 1A—Risk Factors

The risks described below could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and/orand results of operations. These risks could cause our actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and from results or events predicted by our forward-looking statements. Those statements may relate to such matters as sales growth, increases in comparable store sales, impactcannibalization of cannibalization,existing locations by new openings, price changes, earnings performance, earnings per share, stock-based compensation expense, warehouse openings and closures, the effect of adopting certain accounting standards, future financial reporting, financing, margins, return on invested capital, strategic direction, expense control, membership renewal rates, shopping frequency, litigation impact and the demand for our products and services. You should read these risk factors in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Item 7 of this Report and our consolidated financial statements and related notes in Item 8 of this Report. There may be other factors that we cannot anticipate or that are not described in this report, generally because we do not presently perceive them to be material, that could cause results to differ materially from our expectations.expectations or statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update these forward-looking statements. You are advised to review any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our periodic filings with the SEC.

We face strong competition from other retailers and warehouse club operators, which could negatively affect our financial performance.

The retail business is highly competitive. We compete for members, employees, warehouse sites, products and services and in other important respects with many other local, regional and national retailers, both in the United States and in foreign countries. We compete with other warehouse club operators, discount retailers, supermarkets, supercenter stores, retail and wholesale grocers, department, drug, variety and specialty stores and general merchandise wholesalers and distributors, as well as internet-based retailers, wholesalers and catalog businesses. Such retailers and warehouse club operators compete in a variety of ways, including merchandise pricing, selection and availability, services, location, convenience, store hours, and price. Our inability to respond effectively to competitive pressures and changes in the retail markets could negatively affect our financial performance. Some competitors may have greater financial resources, better access to merchandise, and/orand greater market penetration than we do.

General economic factors, domestically and internationally, may adversely affect our financial performance.

Higher interest rates, energy costs, inflation, levels of unemployment, healthcare costs, consumer debt levels, unsettled financial markets, weaknesses in housing and real estate markets, reduced consumer confidence, changes related to government fiscal and tax policies and other economic factors could adversely affect demand for our products and services or require a change in the mix of products we sell. Prices of certain commodity products, including gasoline and other food products, are historically volatile and are subject to fluctuations arising from changes in domestic and international supply and demand, labor costs, competition, market speculation, government regulations and periodic delays in delivery. Rapid and significant changes in commodity prices may affect our sales and profit margins. These factors can also increase our merchandise costs and/or selling, general and administrative expenses, and otherwise adversely affect our operations and results. General economic conditions can also be affected by the outbreak of war, acts of terrorism, or other significant national or international events.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

Our growth strategy includes expanding our business, both in existing markets and in new markets.

Our future growth is dependent, in part, on our ability to acquire property, and build or lease new warehouses. We compete with other retailers and businesses for suitable locations. Local land use and other regulations restricting the construction and operation of our warehouses, as well as local community actions opposed to the location of our warehouses at specific sites and the adoption of local laws restricting our operations and environmental regulations may impact our ability to find suitable locations, and increase the cost of constructing, leasing and operating our warehouses. We also may have difficulty negotiating leases or real estate purchase agreements on acceptable terms. Failure to manage these and other similar factors effectively will affect our ability to timely build or lease new warehouses, which may have a material adverse affect on our future growth and profitability.

We seek to expand our business in existing markets in order to attain a greater overall market share. Because our warehouses typically draw members from their local areas, a new warehouse may draw members away from our nearby existing warehouses and may adversely affect comparable warehouse sales performance and member traffic at those existing warehouses.

We also intend to open warehouses in new markets. The risks associated with entering a new market include difficulties in attracting members due to a lack of familiarity with us, attracting members of other wholesale club operators currently operating in the new market, our lack of familiarity with local member preferences, and seasonal differences in the market. In addition, entry into new markets may bring us into competition with new competitors or with existing competitors with a large, established market presence. In new markets, we cannot ensure that our new warehouses will be profitably deployed; as a result, our future profitability may be delayed or otherwise materially adversely affected.

We are highly dependent on the financial performance of our United States and Canada operations.

Our financial and operational performance is highly dependent on our United States and Canada operations, which comprised 93%92% of consolidated net sales in 2010 and 93% in 2009, and 2008, and 92%89% of operating income in 20092010 and 2008.92% in 2009. Within the United States, we are highly dependent on our California operations, which comprised 26% and 27% of consolidated net sales in 2010 and 2009, and 2008.respectively. Our California market in general, has a larger percentage of higher volume warehouses as compared to our other markets. As a result, the operating income from our California operations is generally higher as a percentage of total operating income than other regions. Any substantial slowing or sustained decline in these operations could materially adversely affect our business and financial results. Declines in financial performance of our United States operations, particularly in California, and our Canada operations could arise from, among other things: failing to meet targets for warehouse openings; declines in actual or estimated comparable warehouse sales growth rates and expectations; negative trends in operating expenses, including increased labor, healthcare and energy costs; cannibalizing existing locations with new warehouses; shifts in sales mix toward lower gross margin products; changes or uncertainties in economic conditions in our markets; and failing consistently to provide high quality products and innovative new products to retain our existing member base and attract new members.

We depend on vendors to supply us with quality merchandise at the right prices in a timely manner.

We depend heavily on our ability to purchase merchandise in sufficient quantities at competitive prices. We have no assurances of continued supply, pricing or access to new products, and any vendor could at any time change the terms upon which it sells to us or discontinue selling to us. Member demands may lead to out-of-stock positions of our merchandise, leading to loss of sales and profits.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

We purchase our merchandise from numerous domestic and foreign manufacturers and importers and have thousands of vendor relationships. Our inability to acquire suitable merchandise on acceptable terms or the loss of key vendors could negatively affect us. We may not be able to develop relationships with new vendors, and products from alternative sources, if any, may be of a lesser quality or more expensive than those from existing vendors. Because of our efforts to adhere to high quality standards for which available supply may be limited, particularly for certain food items, the large volume we demand may not be consistently available.

Our suppliers are subject to risks, including labor disputes, union organizing activities, financial liquidity, inclement weather, natural disasters, supply constraints, and general economic and political conditions, that could limit their ability to timely provide us with acceptable merchandise. For these or other reasons, one or more of our suppliers might not adhere to our quality control, legal or regulatory standards. These deficiencies may delay or preclude delivery of merchandise to us and might not be identified before we sell such merchandise to our members. This failure could lead to litigation and recalls, which could damage our reputation and our brands, increase our costs, and otherwise hurt our business.

In addition, the United States’ foreign trade policies, tariffs and other impositions on imported goods, security and safety regulations, trade sanctions imposed on certain countries, the limitation on the importation of certain types of goods or of goods containing certain materials from other countries and other factors relating to foreign trade are beyond our control.control and could adversely impact our sourcing of goods.

We depend on our depot operations to effectively and efficiently supply product to our warehouses.

We depend on the orderly operation of the receiving and distribution process, primarily through our depots. Although we believe that our receiving and distribution process is efficient, unforeseen disruptions in operations due to fires, hurricanes, earthquakes or other catastrophic events, labor shortages and disagreements or shipping problems, may result in delays in the delivery of merchandise to our warehouses, which could adversely affect sales and the satisfaction of our members.

We may not timely identify or effectively respond to consumer trends, which could negatively affect our relationship with our members, the demand for our products and services, and our market share.

It is difficult to consistently and successfully predict the products and services our members will demand. TheOur success of our business depends, in part, on our ability to identify and respond to trends in demographics and consumer preferences. Failure to timely identify or effectively respond to changing consumer tastes, preferences (including those relating to sustainability of product sources) and spending patterns could negatively affect our relationship with our members, the demand for our products and services and our market share. If we are not successful at predicting our sales trends and adjusting our purchases accordingly, we may have excess inventory, which could result in additional markdowns and reduce our operating performance. This could have an adverse effect on margins and operating income.

Our failure to maintain positive membership loyalty and brand recognition could adversely affect our financial results.

Damage to our brands or reputation may negatively impact comparable warehouse sales, lower employee morale and productivity, diminish member trust, and reduce member renewal rates and, accordingly, membership fee revenues, resulting in a reduction in shareholder value.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

Changes in accounting standards and subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by management related to complex accounting matters could significantly affect our financial results.

Generally accepted accounting principles and related accounting pronouncements, implementation guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business, including, but not limited to, revenue recognition, sales returns reserves, impairment of long-lived assets and warehouse closing costs, inventories, self-insurance, income taxes, unclaimed property laws and litigation, and other contingent liabilities are highly complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by our management. Changes in these rules or their interpretation or changes in underlying assumptions, estimates or judgments by our management could significantly change our reported or expected financial performance. Provisions for losses related to self-insured risks are generally based upon independent actuarially determined estimates. The assumptions underlying the ultimate costs of existing claim losses can be highly unpredictable, which can affect the liability recorded for such claims. For example, variability in inflation rates of health care costs inherent in these claims can affect the amounts realized. In March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 were enacted. This legislation expands health care coverage to many uninsured individuals and expands coverage to those already insured. We expect our healthcare costs to increase, but not materially, as a result of this legislation. Similarly, changes in legal trends and interpretations, as well as a change in the nature and method of how claims are settled can impact ultimate costs. Although our estimates of liabilities incurred do not anticipate significant changes in historical trends for these variables, any changes could have a considerable effect upon future claim costs and currently recorded liabilities and could materially impact our consolidated financial statements.

Changes in Tax Rates

We compute our income tax provision based on enacted tax rates in the countries in which we operate. As the tax rates vary among countries, a change in earnings attributable to the various jurisdictions in which we operate could result in an unfavorable change in our overall tax provision. Additionally, any change in the enacted tax rates, any adverse outcome in connection with any income tax audits in any jurisdiction, including transfer pricing disputes, or any change in the pronouncements relating to accounting for income taxes may have a material adverse affect on our financial condition, results of operation,operations, or cash flows.

Failure of our internal control over financial reporting could limit our ability to reportmake our financial results accurately and timely.inaccurate or untimely.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes: maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of the financial statements; providing reasonable assurance that our receipts and expenditures of our assets are made in accordance with management authorization; and providing reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements would be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to and cannot provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected. Any failure to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting could limit our ability to report our financial results accurately and timely or to detect and prevent fraud.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

Our international operations subject us to risks associated with the legislative, judicial, accounting, regulatory, political and economic factors specific to the countries or regions in which we operate, which could adversely affect our financial performance.

Our international operations could form a larger portion of our business in future years.are growing. Future operating results internationally could be negatively affected by a variety of factors, many beyond our control.control and similar to those we face in the United States. These factors include political conditions, economic conditions, regulatory constraints, currency regulations and exchange rates, and other matters in any of the countries or regions in which we operate, now or in the future. Other factors that may impact international operations include foreign trade, monetary and fiscal policies both of the United States and of other countries, laws and regulations of foreign governments and the United States (such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act), agencies and similar organizations, and risks associated with having major facilities located in countries which have been historically less stable than the United States. Risks inherent in international operations also include, among others, the costs and difficulties of managing international operations, adverse tax consequences and greater difficulty in enforcing intellectual property rights. Additionally, foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations may have an impact on our future costs or on future cash flows from our international operations.

Market expectations for our financial performance is high.

We believe that the price of our stock generally reflects high market expectations for our future operating results. Any failure to meet or delay in meeting these expectations, including our comparable warehouse sales growth rates, margins, earnings and earnings per share or new warehouse openings, could cause the market price of our stock to decline, as could changes in our dividend or sharestock repurchase policies.

We rely extensively on computer systems to process transactions, summarize results and manage our business. Disruptions in both our primary and back-up systems could harm our business.

Although we believe that we have independent, redundant, and primary and secondary computer systems, given the number of individual transactions we have each year, it is important that we maintain uninterrupted operation of our business-critical computer systems. Our computer systems, including our back-up systems, are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, internal or external security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes, and errors by our employees. If our computer systems and our back-up systems are damaged or cease to function properly, we may have to make significant investmentinvestments to fix or replace them, and we may suffer interruptions in our operations in the interim. Any material interruption in our computer systems may have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations. The costs, potential problems, and interruptions associated with implementing technology initiatives could disrupt or reduce the efficiency of our operations in the short term. These initiatives might not provide the anticipated benefits or provide them in a delayed or more costly manner.

Natural disasters or other catastrophic events could unfavorably affect our financial performance.

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, particularly in California or in Washington state, where our centralized operating systems and administrative personnel are located, could unfavorably affect our operations and financial performance. Such events could result in physical damage to one or more of our properties, the temporary closure of one or more warehouses or depots, the temporary

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

lack of an adequate work force in a market, the temporary or long-term disruption in the supply of products from some local and overseas suppliers, the temporary disruption in the transport of goods

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

from overseas, delays in the delivery of goods to our depots or warehouses within a country in which we operate and the temporary reduction in the availability of products in our warehouses. Public health issues, such as a potential H1N1 flu pandemic (Swine(swine flu), whether occurring in the United States or abroad, could disrupt our operations, disrupt the operations of suppliers or customers, or have an adverse impact on consumer spending and confidence levels. We may be required to suspend operations in some or all of our locations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. These events could also reduce demand for our products or make it difficult or impossible to receive products from suppliers.

We are subject to a wide variety of federal, state, regional, local and international laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, and disposal of hazardous materials and hazardous and non-hazardous wastes, and other environmental matters.

Any failure to comply with these laws could result in costs to satisfy environmental compliance, remediation or compensatory requirements, or the imposition of severe penalties or restrictions on operations by governmental agencies or courts that could adversely affect our operations.

Factors associated with climate change could adversely affect our business.

We use natural gas, diesel fuel, gasoline, and electricity in our distribution and sale operations. Increased government regulations to limit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions may result in increased compliance costs and legislation or regulation affecting energy inputs could materially affect our profitability. In addition, climate change could affect our ability to procure needed commodities at costs and in quantities we currently experience. We also sell a substantial amount of gasoline, the demand for which could be impacted by concerns about climate change and which also could face increased regulation. Climate change may be associated with extreme weather conditions, such as more intense hurricanes, thunderstorms, tornados and snow or ice storms, as well as rising sea levels. Extreme weather conditions increase our costs, and damage resulting from extreme weather may not be fully insured.

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings and audits, and while we cannot predict the outcomes of such proceedings and other contingencies with certainty, some of these outcomes may unfavorably affect our operations or increase our costs.

We are or may become involved in a number of legal proceedings and audits, including grand jury investigations, other government investigations, consumer, employment, tort and other litigation (see discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report). We cannot predict with certainty the outcomes of these legal proceedings and other contingencies, including environmental remediation and other proceedings commenced by governmental authorities. The outcome of some of these legal proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take or refrain from taking actions which could unfavorably affect our operations or could require us to pay substantial amounts of money. Additionally, defending against these lawsuits and proceedings may involve significant expense and diversion of management’s attention and resources. Our business requires compliance with a great variety of laws and regulations. Failure to achieve compliance could subject us to lawsuits and other proceedings, and lead to damage awards, fines and penalties.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

We are subject to the riskrisks of product liability claims.selling unsafe products.

If our merchandise offerings, including food and prepared food products for human consumption, drugs and childrens’ products, do not meet or are perceived not to meet applicable safely standards or our members’ expectations regarding safety, we could experience lost sales, increased costs and be exposed to legal and reputational risk. The sale of these items involves the risk of injury to our members. Such injuries may result from tampering by unauthorized third parties, product contamination or spoilage, including the presence of foreign objects, substances, chemicals, other agents, or residues introduced during the growing, manufacturing, storage, handling and transportation phases. All of ourOur vendors mustare generally contractually required to comply with applicable product safety laws, and we are dependent on them to ensure that the products we buy comply with all safety standards. While we are subject to governmental inspection and regulations and work to comply in all material respects with applicable laws and regulations, we cannot be sure that consumption of our products will not cause a health-related illness in the future or that we will not be subject to claims, lawsuits, or government investigations relating to such matters, resulting in costly product recalls and other liabilities. Even if a product liability claim is unsuccessful or is not fully pursued, the negative publicity surrounding any assertion that our products caused illness or injury could adversely affect our reputation with existing and potential members and our corporate and brand image and these effects could be long term.

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

Our success depends in part on the continued contributions of management and on our ability to attract, train and retain highly qualified employees.

Our success depends to a significant degree on the continued contributions of members of our senior management and other key operations, merchandising and administrative personnel, and the loss of any such person(s) could have a material adverse effect. Other than an annual agreement with our President and CEO, Mr. Sinegal, we have no employment agreements with our officers. We must attract, train and retain a large and growing number of highly qualified employees, while controlling related labor costs. Our ability to control labor costs is subject to numerous external factors, including prevailing wage rates and healthcare and other insurance costs. We compete with other retail and non-retail businesses for these employees and invest significant resources in training and motivating them. There is no assurance that we will be able to attract or retain highly qualified employees in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition. The Company does not maintain key man insurance.

If we do not maintain the privacy and security of member-related information, we could damage our reputation with members, incur substantial additional costs and become subject to litigation.

We receive, retain, and transmit certain personal information about our members. In addition, our online operations at www.costco.com and www.costco.ca depend upon the secure transmission of confidential information over public networks, including information permitting cashless payments. A compromise of our security systems or those of other business partners that results in our members’ personal information being obtained by unauthorized persons could adversely affect our reputation with our members and others, as well as our operations, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and could result in litigation against us or the imposition of penalties. In addition, a security breach could require that we expend significant additional resources related to the security of information systems and could result in a disruption of our operations, particularly our online sales operations.

Additionally, the use of individually identifiable data by our business and our business associates is regulated at the international, federal and state levels. Privacy and information security laws and regulations change, and compliance with them may result in cost increases due to necessary systems

Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

changes and the development of new administrative processes. If we or those with whom we share information fail to comply with these laws and regulations or experience a data security breach, our reputation could be damaged, possibly resulting in lost future business, and we could be subjected to additional legal risk as a result of non-compliance.

Item 1B—Unresolved Staff Comments

None.None.

Item 2—Properties

Warehouse Properties

At August 30, 2009,29, 2010, we operated 527540 membership warehouses:

NUMBER OF WAREHOUSES

The following schedule shows warehouse openings (net of closings) by region for the past five fiscal years and expected warehouse openings (net of closings) through December 31, 2009:2010:

The 32 warehouses operated by Costco Mexico, under our oversight, at the end of 20092010 are not included in the above tables. We opened one warehouse in Mexico in 2009.

At the end of 2009,2010, our warehouses contained approximately 75.277.3 million square feet of operating floor space: 58.660.2 million in the United States, 10.510.8 million in Canada and 6.16.3 million in other international locations, excluding Mexico.

Our executive offices are located in Issaquah, Washington and occupy approximately 445,000581,000 square feet. We operated eight regional offices in the United States, two regional offices in Canada and five regional offices internationally at the end of 2009,2010, containing approximately 334,000 square feet. Additionally, we operate regional cross-docking facilities (depots) for the consolidation and distribution of most shipments to the warehouses, and various processing, packaging, and other facilities to support ancillary and other businesses. At the end of 2009,2010, we operated eleven12 depots in the United States, four in Canada and three internationally, excluding Mexico, consisting of approximately 7.37.6 million square feet.

Item 3—Legal Proceedings

See discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Item 4—Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security HoldersRemoved and Reserved

Our annual meeting is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on January 28, 2010, at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue, Washington. Matters to be voted on will be included in our proxy statement to be filed with the SEC and distributed prior to the meeting.

PART II

Item 5—Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Market Information and Dividend Policy

Our common stock is traded on the National Market tier of The NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) under the symbol “COST.” On October 2, 20091, 2010, we had 8,4598,286 stockholders of record.

The following table shows the quarterly high and low closing sale prices as reported by NASDAQ for each quarter during the last two fiscal years and the quarterly cash dividend declared per share of our common stock during the periods indicated.

Payment of future dividends is subject to declaration by the Board of Directors. Factors considered in determining the size of the dividends are our profitability and expected capital needs. Subject to these qualifications, we presently expect to continue to pay dividends on a quarterly basis.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (dollars in millions)millions, except per share data)

There was noThe following table sets forth information on our common stock repurchase program activity for the 16-week fourth quarter of 2009.fiscal 2010:

Our stock repurchase program is conducted under authorizations made by our Board of Directors: $300 and $1,000 were authorized in September 2007 and November 2007, which expire in August 2010 and November 2010, respectively; and $1,000 authorized in July 2008, which expires in July 2011. The maximum remaining dollar value of shares that may be purchased under the stock repurchase program is $2,002.

Equity Compensation Plans

Information related to our equity compensation plans is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. The Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year.

Item 6—Selected Financial Data

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our consolidated financial condition, operating results, and key operating metrics for the dates and periods indicated. This information should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, included in Item 7 and our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)

OVERVIEW

Our fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to August 31. References to 2010, 2009, 2008, and 20072008 relate to the 52-week years ended August 29, 2010, August 30, 2009, and August 31, 2008, and September 2, 2007 respectively. Certain percentages presented are calculated using actual results prior to rounding. Unless otherwise noted, references to net income relate to net income attributable to Costco.

Key items for 20092010 included:

As previously reported, 2007 was impacted by the following unusual items, the effects of which are reflected in the table below:

We received a refund relatedbelieve that the most important driver of increasing our profitability is sales growth, particularly comparable sales growth. Comparable sales growth is achieved through increasing the frequency with which our members shop and the amounts they spend on each visit. Sales comparisons can also be particularly influenced by two factors that are beyond our control, including fluctuations in currency exchange rates (with respect to 2002 through 2006,the consolidation of the results of our international operations) and changes in the cost of gasoline and associated competitive conditions (primarily impacting domestic operations). The higher our comparable sales not associated with currency fluctuations the more we can leverage certain of our selling, general and administrative expenses, reducing them as a resultpercentage of sales and enhancing profitability. Generating comparable sales growth is foremost a settlement withquestion of making available to our members the U.S. Internal Revenue Service relating to excise taxes previously paid.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

Wespecialty stores, and supermarkets, as well as internet retailers. While we cannot control or reliably predict general economic health or changes in competition, we believe disclosingthat we have been successful historically in adapting our business to these changes, such as through adjustments to our pricing and to our merchandise mix, including increasing the effects of these items helps provide a meaningful comparisonpenetration of our current year resultsprivate label items. Our philosophy is not to prior years. The impactfocus in the short term on maximizing prices that our members can be charged but to maintain what we believe is a perception among our members of eachour “pricing authority”—consistently providing the most competitive values. This may cause us, for example, to absorb increases in merchandise costs at certain times rather than immediately passing them along to our members, negatively impacting gross margin.

We also achieve sales growth by opening new warehouses and relocating existing warehouses to larger facilities. As our warehouse base grows and available and desirable potential sites become more difficult to secure, square footage growth becomes a comparatively less substantial component of thesegrowth, but the negative aspects of such growth (including lower initial operating profitability relative to existing warehouses and cannibalization of sales at existing warehouse when openings occur in existing markets) are ameliorated. Our rate of square footage growth is higher in foreign markets, due to the smaller base in those markets, and we expect that to continue.

Our financial performance also depends heavily on our ability to control costs. While we believe that we have achieved successes in this area historically, some significant costs are partially outside our control, most particularly health care expenses. With respect to expenses relating to the compensation of our employees, our philosophy is not to seek to minimize the wages and benefits that they earn. Rather, we believe that achieving our longer-term objectives of reducing turnover and enhancing employee satisfaction requires maintaining compensation levels that are better than the industry average for much of our workforce. This may cause us, for example, to absorb costs that other employers might seek to pass through to their workforces. Because our business is operated on very low margins, modest changes in various items noted above is presented below:in the income statement, particularly gross margin and selling, general and administrative expenses, can have substantial impacts on net income.

Results of Operations

Net Sales

20092010 vs. 20082009

Net Sales

Net sales increased 9.1% during 2010 compared to 2009. The $6,366 increase was comprised of a $4,871 increase in comparable sales and the remainder primarily from sales at new warehouses opened during 2010 and 2009.

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, Korea, and Japan, strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted net sales during 2010 by approximately $1,570 (225 basis points). Net sales were also positively impacted by gasoline price inflation during 2010 by approximately $895 (128 basis points), which resulted from a 17% increase in the average sales price per gallon.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

Our 2009 sales results particularly in hardlines and softlines, werecontinue to be negatively impacted by general economic conditions, and we believe that those conditions may continue to have a significant adverse impact on spending by our members. We believe, however, that due to the nature of our business model, we are better positioned than many retailers to compete in such an environment.

Comparable Sales

Comparable sales increased 7% in 2010 and were positively impacted primarily by an increase in shopping frequency. Strengthening foreign currencies positively impacted comparable sales by approximately $1,510 (217 basis points) in 2010. Gasoline price inflation positively impacted comparable sales results by approximately $882 (126 basis points) during 2010. Reported comparable sales growth includes the negative impact of cannibalization (established warehouses losing sales to our newly opened locations).

2009 vs. 2008

Net Sales

Our 2009 sales results, particularly in hardlines and softlines, were negatively impacted by general economic conditions. Net sales decreased 1.5% during 2009 compared to 2008. The $1,088 decrease was comprised of a $2,590 decrease in comparable sales, partially offset by an increase of $1,502 primarily from sales at new warehouses opened during 2009 and 2008. Our sales were also impacted by a lower number of warehouse openings year-over-year.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Korea, weakened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted net sales during 2009 by approximately $2,421 (341 basis points). Net sales were also negatively impacted by gasoline price deflation during 2009 by approximately $2,164 (305 basis points), which resulted from a 30% decline in the average sales price per gallon.

Comparable Sales

Comparable sales decreased 4% in 2009. Weakening foreign currencies negatively impacted comparable sales by approximately $2,339 (333 basis points) in 2009. Gasoline price deflation negatively impacted comparable sales results by approximately $2,113 (298 basis points) during 2009. Comparable sales were negatively impacted by a decline in the average amount spent (after adjustment for gasoline price deflation and measured in local currencies), partially offset by an increase in shopping frequency. Reported comparable sales growth includes the negative impact of cannibalization(established warehouses losing sales to our newly opened locations). We believe the decline is a function of adverse economic conditions generally rather that a fundamental change in our members’ relationship to the company.

2008 vs. 2007

Net sales increased 12.5% to $70,977 in 2008, from $63,088 in 2007. Excluding the impact of the change in the estimated sales returns reserve in 2007, net sales, as adjusted, increased $7,437, or 11.7% in 2008 as compared to the previous year. The $7,437 increase in adjusted net sales is comprised of $5,153 from the increase in comparable warehouse sales and $2,284 primarily from sales at new warehouses opened during 2008 and 2007. In the third quarter of 2007, we introduced a 90-day return policy in the United States on certain electronic items.

Significantly stronger foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, positively impacted adjusted net sales by approximately $1,134, or 180 basis points. Gasoline sales also contributed to the $7,437 adjusted net sales growth by approximately $2,236, with approximately $1,489 related to the increase in gasoline sales prices. Additionally, we experienced price increases in certain foods and fresh foods items that positively impacted net sales, which were partially offset by price decreases in certain items within our hardlines category.

Most of the comparable sales growth was derived from increased amounts spent by members, with a smaller contribution from increases in shopping frequency. Gasoline sales positively impacted comparable warehouse sales growth by approximately $1,938. Comparable warehouse sales growth excluding gasoline would have been lower by approximately 267 basis points. Significantly stronger foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, positively impacted comparable sales by approximately $1,070, or 170 basis points. Reported comparable sales growth includes the negative impact of cannibalization (established warehouses losing sales to our newly opened locations).cannibalization.

Membership Fees

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

2010 vs. 2009

Membership fees increased 10.3% in 2010 compared to 2009. Membership fees in 2010 were positively impacted due to the increased penetration of our higher-fee Executive Membership program, the continued benefit of membership sign-ups at warehouses opened in 2009 and 2008, a 2009 $27 charge to membership fees related to a litigation settlement concerning our membership renewal policy, and the additional membership sign-ups at the 13 new warehouses opened in 2010 (14 opened and one closed due to a relocation). Our member renewal rate, currently at 88% in the U.S. and Canada, is consistent with recent years.

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, Korea, and Japan, strengthened against the U.S. dollar in 2010, which positively impacted membership fees by approximately $36.

2009 vs. 2008

Membership fees increased 1.8% in 2009 compared to 2008,2008. The increase was primarily due to membership sign-ups at the 15 new warehouses opened in 2009 (19 opened, two closed due to relocations, and two closed Costco Home locations), the continued benefit of membership sign-ups at warehouses opened in 2008, and increased penetration of our higher-fee Executive Membership program. This increase was negatively impacted by athe $27 charge of $27 related to a proposedfor the litigation settlement concerning our membership renewal policy anddiscussed above, the weakening of foreign currencies against the U.S. dollar, particularly in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Korea, which negatively impacted membership fees during 2009 by approximately $50. Membership fees were also impacted by$50, and a lower number of warehouse openings year-over-year. Our member renewal rate currently at 87% is consistent with recent years.

As previously disclosed, effective with renewals occurring on and after March 1, 2009, we changed an element of our membership renewal policy. Memberships renewed within two months after expiration of the current membership year are extended for twelve months from the expiration date. (Under the previous policy, renewals within six months of the expiration date were extended for twelve months from the expiration date.) Memberships renewed more than two months after such expiration date are extended for twelve months from the renewal date. Although this change will have the effect of deferring recognition of certain membership fees paid by late-renewing members, the effect is not expected to be material.

2008 vs. 2007

Membership fees increased 14.7% to $1,506, or 2.12% of net sales in 2008, from $1,313, or 2.08% of net sales in 2007. Excluding the adjustment to deferred membership fees in 2007, adjusted membership fees increased 10.0% from 2007. The increase was primarily due to: new membership sign-ups at the 24 new warehouses opened (34 opened and 10 closed due to relocations); increased penetration of the higher-fee Executive Membership program; and the five dollar increase in our annual membership fee in the second half of 2006 for non-Executive members. Our member renewal rate at the end of 20082009 was 87%. in the U.S. and Canada.

Gross Margin

2010 vs. 2009

Gross margin, as a percent of net sales, increased two basis points compared to 2009. The core merchandise gross margin, when expressed as a percent of core merchandise sales and not total net sales, increased 25 basis points year-over-year, with all categories showing increases. However, the increased sales penetration of the lower margin gasoline business caused this increase to be only six basis points when expressed as a percent of total net sales. Warehouse ancillary businesses gross margins increased by three basis points as a percent of total net sales. In addition, gross margin comparisons were negatively impacted by five basis points due to a favorable LIFO adjustment in 2009 compared to no adjustment in 2010. Increased penetration of the Executive Membership two-percent reward program and increased spending by Executive Members negatively affected gross margin by two basis points.

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, Korea, and Japan, strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted gross margin for 2010 by approximately $183.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

2009 vs. 2008

Gross margin, as a percent of net sales, increased 28 basis points compared to 2008. This increase was primarily related to a net 18 basis point increase in our core merchandise departments, primarily in food and sundries, partially offset by a decrease in softlines, and a net seven basis point increase from our warehouse ancillary businesses, primarily our gasoline and pharmacy departments. The majority of this gross margin improvement was due to our lower margin gas business having lower sales penetration, due toresulting from the decline in the average selling price per gallon. Increased sales penetration of the Executive Membership two-percent reward program negatively affected gross margin by six basis

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

points. In addition, gross margin was favorably impacted by nine basis points due to reversing the $32 LIFO reserve established in the prior year as we experienced net deflation, year-over-year, in the cost of our merchandise inventories.

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Korea, weakened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted gross margin forin 2009 by approximately $258.

2008 vs. 2007

Gross margin, as a percent of net sales, increased one basis point compared to 2007. Excluding the unusual items affecting net sales and gross margin in 2007, adjusted gross margin as a percent of adjusted net sales decreased five basis points in 2008 as compared to 2007. This decrease was largely due to a net 12 basis point decrease in our warehouse ancillary businesses, particularly in one-hour photo, tire shop and food services, partially offset by an increase in our gasoline business; a $32, or five basis point LIFO charge, resulting from price increases in certain food items and gasoline; and a three basis point decrease resulting from the increased penetration of the Executive Membership two-percent reward program and increased spending by Executive members. These decreases were partially offset by a net 15 basis point increase from our merchandise departments, particularly fresh foods, food and sundries, Costco Online and our international operations, partially offset by a decrease in softlines.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

2010 vs. 2009

SG&A expenses, as a percent of net sales, improved ten basis points compared to 2009. If the effect of gasoline price inflation on net sales in 2010 is excluded, these expenses increased three basis points compared to 2009. Warehouse operating costs, excluding the effect of gasoline price inflation, increased seven basis points, primarily due to higher employee benefit costs, particularly employee healthcare and workers’ compensation. SG&A expense comparisons were positively impacted by six basis points related to: the recovery of amounts expensed in fiscal 2007 and 2008 on behalf of certain employees in Canada to cover adverse tax consequences resulting from our previously announced stock option investigation; and a charge recorded in 2009 to write down the net realizable value of the cash surrender value of employee life insurance contracts with no comparable charge this year.

Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, Korea, and Japan, strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted SG&A for 2010 by approximately $140.

2009 vs. 2008

SG&A expenses, as a percent of net sales, increased 58 basis points compared to 2008. Increased warehouse operating and central administrative costs, as a percent of net sales, negatively impacted SG&A by approximately 56 basis points, resulting primarily from lower sales levels and higher employee health care costs. Higher stock-based compensation expense had a negative impact of one basis point. In addition, we recorded an adjustment to the net realizable value of the cash surrender value of employee life insurance contracts, which negatively impacted SG&A, as a percent of net sales, by two basis points. The net realizable value of the insurance contracts is largely based on

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

changes in investment assets underlying the policies and is subject to conditions generally affecting equity and debt markets. In 2008, we recorded a $16 reserve in connection with a legal settlement, which positively impacted the comparison to current year’s SG&A expense, as a percent of net sales, by two basis points.

SG&A expenses, as a percent of net sales, for 2009 were adversely impacted by the decrease in the price of gasoline, as it produced a decline in sales dollars without a comparative reduction in labor or other administrative costs. Foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Korea, weakened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted SG&A for 2009 by approximately $217.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

2008 vs. 2007

SG&A expenses, as a percent of net sales, decreased 14 basis points compared to 2007. Excluding the unusual items affecting net sales and SG&A expenses in 2007, adjusted SG&A as a percentage of adjusted net sales was comparable to 2007. Warehouse operating and central administrative costs positively impacted adjusted SG&A comparisons, on a net basis, by approximately seven basis points, primarily due to decreased payroll and benefits costs as a percent of adjusted net sales. Stock-based compensation expense negatively impacted adjusted SG&A comparisons by three basis points, primarily due to a higher closing stock price on the date that our October 2007 RSU grant was valued as compared to previous grants. Additionally, in 2008, we recorded a $16 reserve in connection with a litigation settlement and accrued approximately $9 for compensation adjustments we made to employees enrolled in our medical and dental plans related to a decision to share a portion of the health plan’s savings that we achieved. These two items negatively impacted adjusted SG&A comparisons by four basis points.

Preopening Expenses

Preopening expenses include costs incurred for startup operations related to new warehouses and the expansion of ancillary operations at existing warehouses. Preopening expenses can vary due to the timing of the warehouse opening relative to our year-end, whether the warehouse is owned or leased, and whether the opening is in an existing, new, or international market. The decline2009 preopening expense included costs related to several international warehouses that opened in 2009 is primarily attributable to fewer warehouse openings.the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Provision for Impaired Assets and Closing Costs, Net

This provision primarily includes costs related toto: impairment of long-lived assets; future lease obligations of warehouses that have been closed or relocated to new facilities; accelerated depreciation, based on the shortened useful life through the expected closing date on buildings to be demolished or sold and that are not otherwise impaired; and gains and losses or gains resulting from the sale of real property, largely comprised of former warehouse locations.

2010 vs. 2009

The net provision for impaired assets and closing costs was $8 in 2010, compared to $17 in 2009. The provision in 2010 included charges of $6 for warehouse closing expenses and impairment charges of $2.

2009 vs. 2008

The net provision for impaired assets and closing costs was a $17 in 2009, compared to a nominal amount in 2008. The provision in 2009 included charges of $9 for warehouse closing expenses, and impairment charges of $8, primarily related to the closing of our two Costco Home locations in July 2009. The impairment charge in 2008 primarily related to a warehouse in Michigan that was demolished and rebuilt.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

2008 vs. 2007

The net provision for impaired assets and closing costs was a nominal amount in 2008, compared to $14 in 2007. The provision in 2008 included charges of $9 for warehouse closing expenses, and impairment charges of $10, primarily related to a location in Michigan that was demolished and rebuilt. These charges were offset by $19 of net gain on the sale of real property, largely former warehouse locations.

At the end of both 20092010 and 2008,2009, the reserve for warehouse closing costs was $5, and primarily related to future lease obligations.

Interest Expense

2009 vs. 2008

Interest expense primarily relates to our $900 of 5.3% and $1,100 of 5.5% Senior Notes (2007 Senior Notes) issued in 2007. The increase in interest expense is primarily due to a decrease in capitalized interest related to reduced new warehouse and remodel construction activity year-over-year.

2008 vs. 2007

The increase in interest expense resulted primarily from the issuance of our 2007 Senior Notes in February 2007, partially offset by lower interest expense resulting from the repayment in March 2007 of the $300 5.5% Senior Notes.

Interest Income and Other, Net

2010 vs. 2009

The decrease in interest income is due to lower interest rates on our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances. Interest income also includes a $12 other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized on certain securities within our investment portfolio in 2009. No impairment was recognized in 2010.

The increase in earnings of affiliates and other is primarily due to an increase in earnings from our 50% owned joint-venture in Mexico. Costco Mexico’s earnings increased due to stronger sales and the Mexican peso strengthening against the U.S. dollar. The net gain on foreign currency transactions was $13 in 2010, but was not significant in 2009. These amounts generally relate to the difference between the foreign exchange rate in effect when title to merchandise inventory is transferred and the rate at the time of payment. In addition, there was a favorable $1 mark-to-market adjustment in 2010 compared to a negative $5 adjustment in 2009, related to our forward foreign exchange contracts. See Derivatives section for more information.

2009 vs. 2008

The decrease in interest income was largely due to lower interest rates year-over-year, on our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances resulting from a change in policy to invest primarily in U.S. government and agency securities, which earn a lower interest rate.rates. In addition, we recognized $12 of other-than-temporary impairment losses on certain securities within our investment portfolio in 2009 compared to an impairment loss of $5 in 2008. See further discussion in Liquidity and Capital Resources. The decrease in the earnings of affiliates iswas primarily attributable to lower earnings by our investment in Costco Mexico (a 50%-owned joint venture).Mexico. Costco Mexico’s earnings were lower in 2009, primarily due to the peso weakening against the U.S. dollar. The decrease in minority interest and other is primarily due toIn addition, there was a negative $5 mark-to-market chargeadjustment in 2009 compared to a favorable $6 gainadjustment in 2008, related to our forward foreign exchange contracts. See the Derivatives section for more information.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

2008 vs. 2007

The decrease in interest income was largely due to lower interest rates, year-over-year, on our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances. In addition, we recognized $5 of other-than-temporary impairment losses on certain securities within our investment portfolio. The increase in the earnings of affiliates is primarily attributable to our investment in Costco Mexico (a 50%-owned joint venture).

Provision for Income Taxes

The decline in the effective tax rate from 2009 to 2010 is primarily attributable to a change in the mix of earnings between domestic and international operations. The 2009 effective tax rates also include the unfavorable impact of a write-down on investments that were non-deductible for tax purposes.

The lower tax rate in 2008 was primarily attributable to discrete benefits recognized during the year.

Net Income Attributable to Costco (Net Income)

2010 vs. 2009

Net income for 2010 increased to $1,303, or $2.92 per diluted share, from $1,086, or $2.47 per diluted share, during 2009, representing an 18% increase in diluted net income per share. As previously discussed, foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, Korea and Japan, strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted net income for 2010 by approximately $61 after-tax, or $0.14 per diluted share. Various factors, discussed in detail above (including sales, membership fees, gross margin, and selling, general and administrative expenses), contributed to the increase in net income for 2010.

2009 vs. 2008

Net income for 2009 decreased to $1,086, or $2.47 per diluted share, from $1,283, or $2.89 per diluted share, during 2008, representing a 15% decrease in diluted net income per share. As previously discussed, foreign currencies, particularly in Canada, the United Kingdom and Korea, weakened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted net income for 2009 by approximately $83 after-tax, or $0.19 per diluted share. Additionally,Various factors, discussed in detail above (including sales, membership fees, gross margin, and selling, general and administrative expenses), contributed to the decrease in net income for 2009 was negatively impacted by a $34 pre-tax charge, or approximately $0.05 per diluted share, related to a proposed litigation settlement concerning our membership renewal policy, as well as a $23 pre-tax charge, or approximately $0.03 per diluted share, for an adjustment to the net realizable value of the cash surrender value of employee life insurance contracts. Net income for 2009 was positively impacted by a $32 pre-tax, or $0.05 per diluted share, benefit due to the reversal of the LIFO reserve established in 2008.2009.

2008 vs. 2007

Net income for 2008 increased to $1,283, or $2.89 per diluted share, from $1,083, or $2.37 per diluted share, during 2007. The unusual items previously discussed totaled $119, net of tax, or $0.26 per diluted share in 2007. Exclusive of these items, earnings in 2007 were $2.63 per diluted share. Net income per diluted share in 2008 represents an increase of 10% over this adjusted amount. During 2008, we repurchased and retired 13,812,000 shares of common stock, favorably impacting earnings per diluted share by approximately $0.03.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The following table itemizes components of our most liquid assets at the end of 20092010 and 20082009 (dollars in millions, except per share data):

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows generated from warehouse operations and existing cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investment balances, which were $3,727 and $3,275 at the end of 2009 and 2008, respectively. Of these balances, approximately $758 and $788 at the end of 2009 and 2008, respectively, represented debit and credit card receivables, primarily related to sales in the week prior to the end of the fiscal year.

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $2,092 in 2009 compared to $2,206 in 2008, a decrease of approximately $114. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in net income of $197, partially offset by an increase in depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation of $90.

Net cash used in investing activities totaled $1,101 in 2009 compared to $1,717 in 2008, a decrease of approximately $616. The decrease in investing activities relates primarily to a $349 decrease in cash used for additions to property and equipment related to warehouse expansion and remodel projects and a prior year reclassification of $371 of cash and cash equivalents to short-term investments and other assets on our consolidated balance sheets, explained further below. These activities were partially offset by a decrease in cash provided by the net investment in short-term investments of $62 as a result of less cash needed to fund our common stock repurchase activity as well as a decrease in cash proceeds from the sale of property and equipment of $41.

In 2008, one of our enhanced money fund investments, Columbia Strategic Cash Portfolio Fund (Columbia), ceased accepting cash redemption requests and changed to a floating net asset value. In light of the restricted liquidity, we elected to receive a pro-rata allocation of the underlying securities in a separately managed account. We assessed the fair value of these securities through market quotations and review of current investment ratings, as available, coupled with an evaluation of the liquidation value of each investment and its current performance in meeting scheduled payments of principal and interest. During 2009 and 2008, we recognized $12 and $5, respectively, of other-than-temporary impairment losses related to these securities. The losses are included in interest income and other in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. At August 30, 2009 and August 31, 2008, the balance of the Columbia fund was $27 and $104, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheets.

In 2008, two other enhanced money fund investments, BlackRock Cash Strategies, LLC (BlackRock) and Merrill Lynch Capital Reserve Fund, LLC (Merrill Lynch), ceased accepting redemption requests and commenced liquidation. As of August 31, 2008, the balance of the BlackRock and Merrill Lynch funds was $82 and $43, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheets. During 2009, the remaining balances of these funds were liquidated.

During 2008, we reclassified $371 of these three funds from cash and cash equivalents to short-term investments and other assets. At August 30, 2009, $24 remained in short-term investments and $3

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

remainedOur primary sources of liquidity are cash flows generated from warehouse operations and cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances, which were $4,749 and $3,727 at the end of 2010 and 2009, respectively. Of these balances, approximately $862 and $758 at the end of 2010 and 2009, respectively, represented debit and credit card receivables, primarily related to sales in the week prior to the end of our fiscal year.

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $2,780 in 2010 compared to $2,092 in 2009. This net increase of $688 was primarily attributable to a $371 decrease in our net investment in merchandise inventories (merchandise inventories less accounts payable), an increase in net income of $224, and a $141 increase from the change in our other current operating assets onand liabilities.

Net cash used in investing activities totaled $2,015 in 2010 compared to $1,101 in 2009, an increase of $914. This increase relates primarily to a $1,113 decrease in cash provided by the consolidated balance sheets, reflecting the timing of the expected distributions. At August 31, 2008, $161 wasnet investment in short-term investments, partially offset by a $195 decrease in cash used for purchase of property and $68 in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.

The markets relating to these investments remain uncertain, and there may be further declines in the value of these investments that may cause additional losses in future periods.equipment.

Net cash used in financing activities totaled $719 in 2010 compared to $439 in 2009, comparedan increase of $280. This increase was primarily attributable to $643a $482 increase in 2008. The $204 decrease in net cash used in financing activities primarily resulted from a reduction in the cash used to repurchase common stock, a $78 increase in repayments of $826,long-term debt and a $42 increase in dividends paid. These were partially offset by a decrease$124 increase in the net proceeds from stock-based awards and, the excess tax benefit on share-based awards of $276, a decrease$116 increase in the net proceeds from short-term borrowings of $195 as well as a decrease in the cash provided by the issuance of long-term debt of $103.borrowings.

The effect of exchange rate changes, reflected in the consolidated statement of cash flows, decreasedincreased cash by $14$11 in 2009,2010, compared to a decrease of $7$14 in 2008.2009. This increase was primarily due primarily to the significant weakeningstrengthening of the Canadian, Korean,foreign currencies, primarily in Canada, Korea, and the United Kingdom currencies as compared to the U.S. dollar,Japan during 2009.2010.

Dividends

In April 2009,2010, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend from $0.16$0.18 to $0.18$0.205 per share or $0.72 on an annualized basis.share. Our quarterly cash dividends paid in 20092010 totaled $0.77 per share, as compared to $0.68 per share. In 2008, we paid quarterly cash dividends totaling $0.61 per share.share in 2009.

Contractual Obligations

Our commitments at year-end to make future payments under contractual obligations were as follows, as of August 30, 2009:29, 2010:

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

Expansion Plans

Our primary requirement for capital is the financing of land, building,buildings, and equipment costs for new and remodeled warehouses. CapitalTo a lesser extent, capital is also required for initial warehouse operations and working capital. While there can be no assurance that current expectations will be realized and plans are subject to change upon further review, it is our current intention to spend approximately $1,300$1,600 during fiscal 20102011 for real estate, construction, remodeling, and equipment for warehouses and related operations. These expenditures are expected to be financed with a combination of cash provided from operations and existing cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments.

We plan to open approximately 16up to 1831 new warehouses in 2010,2011, including one to two relocations of existing warehouses to larger and better locatedbetter-located facilities.

Additional Equity Investments in Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures

Our investments in the Costco Mexico joint venture and in other unconsolidated joint ventures that are less than majority owned are accounted for under the equity method. We did not make any capital contributions to our investment in Costco Mexico (a 50%-owned joint venture) in 2010, 2009, 2008, or 2007.

Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)(Continued)

Bank Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Programs (all amounts stated in millions, in U.S. dollars)