Costco shoppers are snapping up a popular Australian snack that recently landed on shelves across the United States, highlighting growing demand for international food brands among American consumers.
Tim Tams, the chocolate-covered biscuits made by Australian food giant Arnott’s, are now available in bulk packages at Costco warehouses nationwide. The product’s arrival has generated significant attention online, with shoppers sharing photos of stocked shelves and discussing the cookies across social media.
The Original Tim Tam features two malted chocolate biscuits layered with a cocoa-flavored filling and coated in chocolate. The brand, which has been a staple in Australia since 1964, has developed a loyal following well beyond its home market.
Costco is selling the product in six-sleeve boxes containing 66 cookies for about $14, giving American consumers broader access to a snack that was previously available primarily through specialty retailers and international food stores.
COSTCO QUIETLY ROLLS BACK PRICES ON POPULAR KIRKLAND PRODUCTS IN MEMBER-FRIENDLY MOVE
Social media has played a key role in driving interest. Many first-time buyers have been introduced to the “Tim Tam Slam,” a popular Australian tradition in which consumers bite off opposite corners of the biscuit, use it as a straw to sip coffee or tea, and then eat the softened cookie before it dissolves.
The technique has gained visibility through TikTok videos and celebrity demonstrations. Australian actress Isla Fisher previously showcased the Tim Tam Slam on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” while “Succession” star Sarah Snook demonstrated the ritual during an appearance on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
The viral appeal of Tim Tams underscores a broader trend of international food brands finding new audiences in the U.S., particularly when social media helps introduce consumers to products and traditions that may be unfamiliar outside their home countries.
For Costco, the launch also reflects the retailer’s ongoing effort to offer members products they may not find elsewhere. The warehouse giant has increasingly leaned on exclusive items, limited-time offerings and its Kirkland Signature private-label brand to differentiate itself from traditional grocery chains and competing warehouse clubs.
COSTCO SAYS ITS GAS STATIONS SET ALL-TIME VOLUME RECORDS AS CONSUMERS SEEK LOWER-PRICED FUEL
The Tim Tams rollout comes as Costco continues emphasizing value for shoppers. The retailer recently highlighted price reductions on several Kirkland Signature products, including chicken wings, chocolate-covered almonds and golf balls, as executives reiterated their goal of lowering prices when possible.
The combination of exclusive products, private-label offerings and competitive pricing has helped Costco maintain strong consumer demand even as many households remain focused on stretching their grocery budgets.
Costco has also invested in operational improvements, including expanded digital membership capabilities and checkout technology designed to improve transaction speeds and enhance the customer experience.
Read the full article here