Costco products appear on Ghost Month altars, sparking 'Americanized' trend

The traditional Ghost Month offerings in Taiwan are seeing a modern, American-influenced twist, with shoppers incorporating products from the warehouse club Costco onto their altars. This phenomenon, humorously dubbed "Americanized Ghost Month," has become a talking point among Taiwanese consumers.

During a visit to a temple in Taichung, a Mr. Wu was surprised to find that many of the drinks, biscuits, snacks, and large food packages on the offering table were Costco items. He remarked, "Has Costco already integrated into all of Taiwan's festivals?" Others noted that Costco's festive atmosphere has become increasingly "local" or "隨俗" (suí sú - following customs) in recent years, blending seamlessly with Taiwanese traditions.

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Has Costco already integrated into all of Taiwan's festivals?

Costco Taiwan's Marketing Department Manager, Liu Heng-chia, stated that Ghost Month is a significant and unique Taiwanese festival. "We are honored to be a part of our members' preparations and sharing of blessings," Liu said. The company aims to continue offering a diverse and convenient selection of products suitable for sharing, accompanying Taiwanese families during important moments. The specific offerings mentioned were purchased from the Costco Taichung store by the Wuji Hunyuan Houli Sacred Temple, with community members contributing funds for the purchases.

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We are honored to be a part of our members' preparations and sharing of blessings.