True, but is Costco reacting because some of their locations are in mandatory mask states, so corporate went company wide because they could?
Company wide seems to be their modus operandi. I recall the gun policy even says something to the effect that they didn't care about state or local laws when they made that policy, because it was about making their customers and employees "safe". Still, I've printed, flashed, etc. numerous times, and employees and customers had to have seen the gun, but no one ever says anything here, so local employees may not always agree with the policy.
I doubt there will be leeway with the masks though. Still, I can't help but think it's Costco Seattle-centric social theater at this point. As with any other mask wearing, IMO, it would have had more meaning and positive effect as a mandatory policy two months ago.
Also, if Costco wanted to put their money where their mouth is, they would be offering free sealed and sterile masks at the door for their customers who show up without one versus turning away irate customers who show up without knowing the mask policy is in effect.