Costco Wholesale (COST) 10-Q13 Mar 242024 Q2 Quarterly reportFinancial data

Company Profile

Cover

Cover - shares	6 Months Ended
Cover - shares	Feb. 18, 2024	Mar. 06, 2024
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Feb. 18, 2024
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2024
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	0-20355
Entity Registrant Name	COSTCO WHOLESALE CORP /NEW
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	WA
Entity Tax Identification Number	91-1223280
Entity Address, Address Line One	999 Lake Drive
Entity Address, City or Town	Issaquah
Entity Address, State or Province	WA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	98027
City Area Code	425
Local Phone Number	313-8100
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, $.005 Par Value
Trading Symbol	COST
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		443,504,036
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Entity Central Index Key	0000909832
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-01

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
REVENUE
Total Revenue	$ 58,442	$ 55,266	$ 116,241	$ 109,703
OPERATING EXPENSES
Merchandise costs	51,140	48,423	101,597	96,192
Selling, general and administrative	5,240	4,940	10,598	9,857
Operating income	2,062	1,903	4,046	3,654
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest expense	(41)	(34)	(79)	(68)
Interest income and other, net	216	114	376	167
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	2,237	1,983	4,343	3,753
Provision for income taxes	494	517	1,011	923
NET INCOME	$ 1,743	$ 1,466	$ 3,332	$ 2,830
NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 3.93	$ 3.30	$ 7.51	$ 6.37
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 3.92	$ 3.30	$ 7.49	$ 6.37
Shares used in calculation (000's)
Basic (shares)	443,892	443,877	443,859	443,857
Diluted (shares)	444,754	444,475	444,579	444,503
Net Sales
REVENUE
Total Revenue	$ 57,331	$ 54,239	$ 114,048	$ 107,676
Membership fees
REVENUE
Total Revenue	$ 1,111	$ 1,027	$ 2,193	$ 2,027

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
NET INCOME	$ 1,743	$ 1,466	$ 3,332	$ 2,830
Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other, net	1	253	(37)	157
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	$ 1,744	$ 1,719	$ 3,295	$ 2,987

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions		Feb. 18, 2024	Sep. 03, 2023
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 9,095	$ 13,700
Short-term investments		1,226	1,534
Receivables, net		2,779	2,285
Merchandise inventories		17,075	16,651
Other current assets		1,971	1,709
Total current assets		32,146	35,879
OTHER ASSETS
Property and equipment, net		27,601	26,684
Operating lease right-of-use assets		2,740	2,713
Other long-term assets		3,836	3,718
TOTAL ASSETS		66,323	68,994
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable		17,494	17,483
Accrued salaries and benefits		4,801	4,278
Accrued member rewards		2,268	2,150
Deferred membership fees		2,541	2,337
Current portion of long-term debt	[1]	1,080	1,081
Other current liabilities		6,504	6,254
Total current liabilities		34,688	33,583
OTHER LIABILITIES
Long-term debt, excluding current portion		5,865	5,377
Long-term operating lease liabilities		2,488	2,426
Other long-term liabilities		2,522	2,550
TOTAL LIABILITIES		45,563	43,936
EQUITY
Preferred stock $0.005 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding		0	0
Common stock $0.005 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized; 443,549,000 and 442,793,000 shares issued and outstanding		2	2
Additional paid-in capital		7,620	7,340
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(1,842)	(1,805)
Retained earnings		14,980	19,521
TOTAL EQUITY		20,760	25,058
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY		$ 66,323	$ 68,994

[1]Net of unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Feb. 18, 2024	Sep. 03, 2023
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.005	$ 0.005
Preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.005	$ 0.005
Common stock, shares authorized	900,000,000	900,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	443,549,000	442,793,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	443,549,000	442,793,000

Consolidated Statement of Stock

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity Statement - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Parent [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Common Stock at beginning of period (shares) at Aug. 28, 2022		442,664
Equity at beginning of period at Aug. 28, 2022		$ 2	$ 6,884	$ (1,829)	$ 15,585	$ 20,642
Equity at beginning of period including noncontrolling interest at Aug. 28, 2022	$ 20,647						$ 5
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
NET INCOME	2,830				2,830	2,830
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	2,830						0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	157			157		157	0
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition	551		551			551
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross		1,465
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised	$ (302)		(302)			(302)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	(579)	(579)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value	$ (285)		(10)		(275)	(285)
Cash dividends declared	(799)				(799)	(799)
Common Stock at end of period (shares) at Feb. 12, 2023		443,550
Equity at end of period at Feb. 12, 2023		$ 2	7,123	(1,672)	17,341	22,794
Equity at end of period including noncontrolling interest at Feb. 12, 2023	22,799						5
Common Stock at beginning of period (shares) at Nov. 20, 2022		443,841
Equity at beginning of period at Nov. 20, 2022		$ 2	6,982	(1,925)	16,412	21,471
Equity at beginning of period including noncontrolling interest at Nov. 20, 2022	21,476						5
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
NET INCOME	1,466				1,466	1,466
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	1,466						0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	253			253		253	0
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition	148		148			148
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross		3
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised	$ (1)		(1)			(1)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	(294)	(294)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value	$ (144)		(6)		(138)	(144)
Cash dividends declared	(399)				(399)	(399)
Common Stock at end of period (shares) at Feb. 12, 2023		443,550
Equity at end of period at Feb. 12, 2023		$ 2	7,123	(1,672)	17,341	22,794
Equity at end of period including noncontrolling interest at Feb. 12, 2023	$ 22,799						5
Common Stock at beginning of period (shares) at Sep. 03, 2023	442,793	442,793
Equity at beginning of period at Sep. 03, 2023	$ 25,058	$ 2	7,340	(1,805)	19,521	25,058
Equity at beginning of period including noncontrolling interest at Sep. 03, 2023	25,058						0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
NET INCOME	3,332				3,332	3,332
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	3,332						0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(37)			(37)		(37)	0
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition	582		582			582
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross		1,284
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised	$ (292)		(292)			(292)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	(528)	(528)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value	$ (322)		(10)		(312)	(322)
Cash dividends declared	$ (7,561)				(7,561)	(7,561)
Common Stock at end of period (shares) at Feb. 18, 2024	443,549	443,549
Equity at end of period at Feb. 18, 2024	$ 20,760	$ 2	7,620	(1,842)	14,980	20,760
Equity at end of period including noncontrolling interest at Feb. 18, 2024	20,760						0
Common Stock at beginning of period (shares) at Nov. 26, 2023		443,787
Equity at beginning of period at Nov. 26, 2023		$ 2	7,489	(1,843)	20,499	26,147
Equity at beginning of period including noncontrolling interest at Nov. 26, 2023	26,147						0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
NET INCOME	1,743				1,743	1,743
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	1,743						0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	1			1		1	0
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition	136		136			136
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross		2
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised	$ 0		0			0
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	(240)	(240)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value	$ (160)		(5)		(155)	(160)
Cash dividends declared	$ (7,107)				(7,107)	(7,107)
Common Stock at end of period (shares) at Feb. 18, 2024	443,549	443,549
Equity at end of period at Feb. 18, 2024	$ 20,760	$ 2	$ 7,620	$ (1,842)	$ 14,980	$ 20,760
Equity at end of period including noncontrolling interest at Feb. 18, 2024	$ 20,760						$ 0

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
NET INCOME	$ 3,332	$ 2,830
Depreciation and amortization	1,015	917
Non-cash lease expense	148	216
Stock-based compensation	580	549
Impairment of assets and other non-cash operating activities, net	(7)	145
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Merchandise inventories	(425)	1,849
Accounts payable	4	(1,417)
Other operating assets and liabilities, net	735	713
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,382	5,802
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchases of short-term investments	(719)	(396)
Maturities of short-term investments	1,029	512
Additions to property and equipment	(2,071)	(1,947)
Other investing activities, net	9	(34)
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,752)	(1,865)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayments of short-term borrowings	(409)	(520)
Proceeds from short-term borrowings	383	479
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	498	0
Tax withholdings on stock-based awards	(292)	(302)
Repurchases of common stock	(322)	(284)
Cash dividend payments	(8,012)	(400)
Financing lease payments	(94)	(158)
Other financing activities, net	(2)	(30)
Net cash used in financing activities	(8,250)	(1,215)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	15	45
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(4,605)	2,767
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BEGINNING OF YEAR	13,700	10,203
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS END OF PERIOD	9,095	12,970
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Interest	62	62
Income taxes, net	1,197	636
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITIES:
Cash dividend declared, but not yet paid	0	399
Financing lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases	97	47
Operating lease assets obtained in exchange for new or modified leases	145	131
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	$ 144	$ 11

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	6 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Feb. 18, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Policies	Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business Costco Wholesale Corporation (Costco or the Company), a Washington corporation, and its subsidiaries operate membership warehouses based on the concept that offering members low prices on a limited selection of nationally-branded and private-label products in a wide range of merchandise categories will produce high sales volumes and rapid inventory turnover. At February 18, 2024, Costco operated 874 warehouses worldwide: 602 in the United States (U.S.) located in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, 108 in Canada, 40 in Mexico, 33 in Japan, 29 in the United Kingdom (U.K.), 18 in Korea, 15 in Australia,14 in Taiwan, six in China, four in Spain, two in France, and one each in Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden. The Company operates e-commerce websites in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Mexico, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia. Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Costco and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All material inter-company transactions among the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q for interim financial reporting pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While these statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for fair presentation of the results of the interim period, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) for complete financial statements. Therefore, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 3, 2023. Fiscal Year End The Company operates on a 52/53 week fiscal year basis, with the fiscal year ending on the Sunday closest to August 31. Fiscal 2024 is a 52-week year ending on September 1, 2024. References to the second quarter of 2024 and 2023 relate to the 12-week fiscal quarters ended February 18, 2024, and February 12, 2023. References to the first half of 2024 and 2023 relate to the 24 weeks ended February 18, 2024 and February 12, 2023. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and assumptions take into account historical and forward-looking factors that the Company believes are reasonable. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions. Reclassification Reclassifications were made to the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the first half of fiscal 2023 to conform with current year presentation. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2023-07, which is intended to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through additional disclosures about significant segment expenses. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is evaluating the new standard. In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, which focuses on income tax disclosures by requiring public business entities, on an annual basis, to disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation, provide information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, and certain information about income taxes paid. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis. Retrospective application is permitted. The Company is evaluating the new standard.

Investments

Investments	6 Months Ended
Investments	Feb. 18, 2024
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	Note 2—Investments The Company's investments were as follows: February 18, 2024: Cost Unrealized Recorded Available-for-sale: Government and agency securities $ 678 $ (13) $ 665 Held-to-maturity: Certificates of deposit 561 — 561 Total short-term investments $ 1,239 $ (13) $ 1,226 September 3, 2023: Cost Unrealized Recorded Available-for-sale: Government and agency securities $ 650 $ (17) $ 633 Held-to-maturity: Certificates of deposit 901 — 901 Total short-term investments $ 1,551 $ (17) $ 1,534 Gross unrecognized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities were not material for the periods ended February 18, 2024, or September 3, 2023 . At those dates, there were no available-for-sale securities in a material continuous unrealized-loss position. There were no sales of available-for-sale securities during the first half of 2024 or 2023. The maturities of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities at February 18, 2024, are as follows: Available-For-Sale Held-To-Maturity Cost Basis Fair Value Due in one year or less $ 136 $ 135 $ 561 Due after one year through five years 370 365 — Due after five years 172 165 — Total $ 678 $ 665 $ 561

Fair Value Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	6 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurement	Feb. 18, 2024
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement	Note 3—Fair Value Measurement Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis The table below presents information regarding the Company’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and indicates the level within the hierarchy reflecting the valuation techniques utilized. Level 2 February 18, September 3, Investment in government and agency securities (1) $ 669 $ 633 Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position (2) 12 18 Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position (2) (4) (7) Total $ 677 $ 644 _______________ (1) At February 18, 2024, $4 cash and cash equivalents and $665 short-term investments are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. (2) The asset and liability values are included in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. At February 18, 2024, and September 3, 2023, the Company did not hold any Level 1 or 3 financial assets or liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis. There were no transfers between levels during the first half of 2024 or 2023. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis Assets and liabilities recognized and disclosed at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include items such as financial assets measured at amortized cost and long-lived nonfinancial assets. These assets are measured at fair value if determined to be impaired. There were no material fair value adjustments to these items during the first half of 2024. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company recognized in merchandise costs a charge of $93, primarily related to the impairment of certain leased assets associated with charter shipping activities, now discontinued.

Debt

Debt	6 Months Ended
Debt	Feb. 18, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Note 4—Debt The carrying value of the Company’s long-term debt consisted of the following: February 18, September 3, 2.750% Senior Notes due May 2024 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 3.000% Senior Notes due May 2027 1,000 1,000 1.375% Senior Notes due June 2027 1,250 1,250 1.600% Senior Notes due April 2030 1,750 1,750 1.750% Senior Notes due April 2032 1,000 1,000 Other long-term debt 969 484 Total long-term debt 6,969 6,484 Less unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs 24 26 Less current portion (1) 1,080 1,081 Long-term debt, excluding current portion $ 5,865 $ 5,377 _______________ (1) Net of unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs. The fair value of the Senior Notes is estimated using Level 2 inputs. Other long-term debt consists of Guaranteed Senior Notes issued by the Company's Japan subsidiary, valued using Level 3 inputs. In November 2023, the Company's Japan subsidiary issued four Guaranteed Senior Notes, totaling approximately $500, at fixed interest rates ranging from 1.400% to 2.120%. Interest is payable semi-annually, and maturity dates range from November 7, 2033, to November 7, 2043. The fair value of the Company's long-term debt, including the current portion, was approximately $6,306 and $5,738 at February 18, 2024, and September 3, 2023.

Equity

Equity	3 Months Ended
Equity	Feb. 18, 2024
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' equity	Note 5—Equity Dividends A quarterly cash dividend of $1.02 per share was declared on January 18, 2024, and paid on February 16, 2024. The dividend was $0.90 per share in the second quarter of 2023. On January 12, 2024, an aggregate payment of approximately $6,655 was made in connection with a special cash dividend of $15.00 per share, declared on December 13, 2023. Stock Repurchase Programs The Company's stock repurchase program is conducted under a $4,000 authorization by the Board of Directors, which expires in January 2027. At February 18, 2024, the remaining amount available under the program was $3,241. The following table summarizes the repurchase activity: Shares Repurchased (000s) Average Price per Share Total Cost Second quarter of 2024 240 $ 664.02 $ 160 First half of 2024 528 $ 609.51 $ 322 Second quarter of 2023 294 $ 488.30 $ 144 First half of 2023 579 $ 492.06 $ 285 These amounts may differ from the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flows due to changes in unsettled stock repurchases at the end of each quarter. Purchases are made from time to time, as conditions warrant, in the open market or in block purchases and pursuant to plans under SEC Rule 10b5-1.

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Compensation Plans	6 Months Ended
Stock-Based Compensation Plans	Feb. 18, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation Plans	Note 6—Stock-Based Compensation The 2019 Incentive Plan authorized the issuance of up to a maximum of 15,885,000 RSUs. To preserve the value of outstanding awards, the number of RSUs that may be granted under this Plan is subject to adjustments from changes in capital structure. The Company issues new shares of common stock upon vesting of RSUs. Shares for vested RSUs are generally delivered to participants annually, net of shares withheld for taxes. As required by the 2019 Incentive Plan, in conjunction with the 2024 special cash dividend, the number of shares subject to outstanding RSUs was increased on the dividend record date to preserve their value. They were adjusted by multiplying the number of outstanding shares by a factor of 1.018, representing the ratio of the Nasdaq closing price of $674.62 on December 26, 2023, which was the last trading day immediately prior to the ex-dividend date, to the Nasdaq opening price of $662.70 on the ex-dividend date, December 27, 2023. The outstanding RSUs increased by approximately 52,000. The adjustment did not result in additional stock-based compensation expense, as the fair value of the awards did not change. As further required by the 2019 Incentive Plan, the maximum number of shares issuable under the plan was proportionally adjusted, which resulted in an additional 128,000 RSU shares available to be granted. Summary of Restricted Stock Unit Activity At February 18, 2024, 7,249,000 shares were available to be granted as RSUs, and the following awards, adjusted for the effects of the special dividend, were outstanding: • 2,749,000 time-based RSUs, which vest upon continued employment over specified periods and accelerate upon achievement of a long-service term; • 70,000 performance-based RSUs granted to executive officers of the Company, for which the performance targets have been met. The awards vest upon continued employment over specified periods of time and upon achievement of a long-service term; and • 91,000 performance-based RSUs granted to executive officers of the Company, subject to achievement of performance targets for 2024, as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors after the end of the fiscal year. These awards are included in the table below. The Company recognized compensation expense for these awards in the second quarter of 2024, as it is currently deemed probable that the targets will be achieved. The following table summarizes RSU transactions during the first half of 2024: Number of Weighted-Average Outstanding at September 3, 2023 3,045 $ 405.63 Granted 1,663 545.98 Vested and delivered (1,813) 430.54 Forfeited (37) 454.02 Special cash dividend 52 N/A Outstanding at February 18, 2024 2,910 $ 462.35 The remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to RSUs unvested at February 18, 2024, was $1,098, and the weighted-average period over which this cost will be recognized is 1.8 years. Summary of Stock-Based Compensation The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefits: 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Stock-based compensation expense $ 136 $ 147 $ 580 $ 549 Less recognized income tax benefits 25 24 120 113 Stock-based compensation expense, net $ 111 $ 123 $ 460 $ 436

Net Income per Common and Commo

Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share	6 Months Ended
Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share	Feb. 18, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income Per Common and Common Equivalent Share	Note 7—Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share The following table shows the amounts used in computing net income per share and the weighted average number of shares of basic and of potentially dilutive common shares outstanding (shares in 000s): 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Net income $ 1,743 $ 1,466 $ 3,332 $ 2,830 Weighted average basic shares 443,892 443,877 443,859 443,857 RSUs 862 598 720 646 Weighted average diluted shares 444,754 444,475 444,579 444,503 Anti-dilutive RSUs — 6 — — Anti-dilutive shares are excluded from the calculation of diluted shares and earnings per diluted share because their impact would increase earnings per diluted shares. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated based on the dilutive effect of RSUs using the treasury stock method.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	6 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Feb. 18, 2024
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 8—Commitments and Contingencies Legal Proceedings The Company is involved in many claims, proceedings and litigations arising from its business and property ownership. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, the Company establishes an accrual for legal proceedings if and when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and reasonably estimable. There may be losses in excess of amounts accrued. The Company monitors those matters for developments that would affect the likelihood of a loss (taking into account where applicable indemnification arrangements concerning suppliers and insurers) and the accrued amount, if any, thereof, and adjusts the amount as appropriate. The Company has recorded immaterial accruals with respect to certain matters described below, in addition to other immaterial accruals for matters not described below. If the loss contingency at issue is not both probable and reasonably estimable, the Company does not establish an accrual, but monitors for developments that make the contingency both probable and reasonably estimable. In each case, there is a reasonable possibility that a loss may be incurred, including a loss in excess of the applicable accrual. For matters where no accrual has been recorded, the possible loss or range of loss (including any loss in excess of the accrual) cannot, in the Company's view, be reasonably estimated because, among other things: the remedies or penalties sought are indeterminate or unspecified; the legal and/or factual theories are not well developed; and/or the matters involve complex or novel legal theories or a large number of parties. In November 2023, a former employee filed a class action against the Company alleging claims under California law for failure to pay minimum wage, failure to pay overtime, failure to provide meal and rest breaks, failure to provide accurate wage statements, failure to reimburse expenses, failure to pay wages when due, and failure to pay sick pay. Martin Reyes v. Costco Wholesale Corporation , Sacramento County Superior Court. (Case No. 23cv011351). An amended complaint has been filed, as to which the Company has yet to respond. In October 2023, current and former employees filed suit against the Company asserting collective and class claims on behalf of all “Junior Managers” under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New York Labor Law, for failure to pay overtime compensation and for inaccurate wage statements under New York law. Lock et al. v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:23-cv-07904; E.D.N.Y.). On February 1, 2024, the Company served a motion to dismiss the inaccurate wage-statement claim. In October 2023, a current employee filed suit against the Company asserting collective and class claims on behalf of all “supervisors” employed in New Jersey, under the Fair Labor Standards Act and New Jersey Wage and Hour Law for failure to pay all hours worked. Shah v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 2:23-cv-21286; D.N.J.). On December 26, 2023, the Company filed its answer, denying all claims. In July 2021, a former temporary staffing employee filed a class action against the Company and a staffing company, alleging violations of the California Labor Code regarding payment of wages, meal and rest periods, wage statements, the timeliness of wages and final wages, and for unfair business practices. Dimas v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. STK-CV-UOE-2021-0006024; San Joaquin Superior Court). The Company has moved to compel arbitration of the plaintiff's individual claims and to dismiss the class action complaint. On September 7, 2021, the same plaintiff filed a separate representative action under the California Private Attorneys General Act, asserting the same Labor Code violations and seeking civil penalties and attorneys' fees. The case has been stayed pending arbitration of the plaintiff's individual claims. In May 2022, an employee filed an action under the California Private Attorneys General Act against the Company, alleging claims under the California Labor Code regarding the payment of wages, meal and rest periods, the timeliness of wages and final wages, wage statements, accurate records and business expenses. Gonzalez v. Costco Wholesale Corp. (Case No. 22AHCV00255; Los Angeles Superior Court). The Company filed an answer denying the allegations. On October 31, 2023, a settlement was reached for an immaterial amount. A hearing on preliminary approval of the settlement is scheduled for April 23, 2024. Beginning in December 2017, the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated numerous cases concerning the impacts of opioid abuses filed against various defendants by counties, cities, hospitals, Native American tribes, third-party payors, and others. In re National Prescription Opiate Litigation (MDL No. 2804) (N.D. Ohio). Included are cases filed against the Company by counties and cities in Michigan, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia and South Carolina, a third-party payor in Ohio, and a hospital in Texas, class actions filed on behalf of infants born with opioid-related medical conditions in 40 states, and class actions and individual actions filed on behalf of individuals seeking to recover alleged increased insurance costs associated with opioid abuse in 43 states and American Samoa. Claims against the Company filed in federal court outside the MDL have been asserted by certain counties and cities in Florida and Georgia; claims filed by certain cities and counties in New York are pending in state court. Claims against the Company in state courts in New Jersey, Oklahoma, Utah, and Arizona have been dismissed. The Company is defending all of the pending matters. Members of the Board of Directors, six corporate officers and the Company were defendants in a shareholder derivative action filed in June 2022 related to chicken welfare and alleged breaches of fiduciary duties. Smith, et ano. v. Vachris, et al., Superior Court of the State of Washington, County of King, No, 22-2-08937-7SEA. The complaint sought from the individual defendants' damages, injunctive relief, costs, and attorneys' fees. On March 28, 2023, the court granted the defendants' motion to dismiss the action. The plaintiffs subsequently made a demand that the Board of Directors take various actions, including among other things, pursuing claims against directors and officers of the type asserted in the litigation. A demand review committee of the Board has been appointed to make a recommendation to the Board as to the demand. In February 2023, Go Green Norcal, LLC filed an arbitration demand against the Company. The demand alleged a breach of a supply agreement and sought unspecified damages and cancellation of a loan from the Company. In March 2023, the Company filed its answer, denying any breach by the Company, along with counterclaims against Go Green and an affiliate for breach of contract, negligent misrepresentation, and an accounting. In August 2023 the plaintiff asserted that its damages exceed $70 million. An award to the plaintiffs of an immaterial amount was paid in February 2024. Between September 25, 2023, and October 31, 2023, five class action suits were filed against the Company alleging various privacy law violations stemming from pixel trackers on Costco.com. Birdwell v. Costco Wholesale Corp. , Case No. T23-1405, Contra Costa County Superior Court; and Scott v. Costco Wholesale Corp. , Case No. 2:23-cv-08808 (C.D. Cal.), now consolidated with R.S. v. Costco Wholesale Corp. , Case No. 2:23-cv-01628 (W.D. Wash.); Groves, et ano. v. Costco Wholesale Corp. , Case No. 2:23-cv-01662 (W.D. Wash.) and Castillo v. Costco Wholesale Corp. , under Case No. 2:34-cv-01548 (W.D. Wash.). The Castillo plaintiffs filed a consolidated complaint on January 26, 2024, which seeks damages, equitable relief and attorneys’ fees under various statutes, including the Washington Consumer Protection Act, Washington Privacy Act, Washington Uniform Health Care Information Act, Electronic Communications Privacy Act, California Invasion of Privacy Act, and California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act. The consolidated complaint also alleges breach of implied contract, invasion of privacy, conversion and unjust enrichment. The Company filed a motion to dismiss and demurrer in Birdwell and has not responded to the Castillo consolidated complaint. On January 2, 2024, the Company received a related civil investigative demand from the Washington Attorney General's office. On January 3, 2024, the Company received a related pre-litigation letter from the Los Angeles Office of the County Counsel . In October 2021 the Company received a notice that the Quebec Health Insurance Board had commenced an inquiry to determine whether the Company had given or received improper payments for drugs that are covered by the province's prescription drug program from drug wholesalers, generic drug manufacturers or the independent pharmacist who owns and operates the pharmacies located in the Company's Quebec locations. The inquiry covers a period beginning January 1, 2017. In January 2023 the Company received a Civil Investigative Demand from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Washington, requesting documents. The government is conducting a False Claims Act investigation concerning whether the Company presented or caused to be presented to the federal government for payment false claims relating to prescription medications. The Company does not believe that any pending claim, proceeding or litigation, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows; it is possible that an unfavorable outcome of some or all of the matters, however unlikely, could result in a charge that might be material to the results of an individual fiscal quarter or year.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	6 Months Ended
Segment Reporting	Feb. 18, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	Note 9—Segment Reporting The Company is principally engaged in the operation of membership warehouses through wholly owned subsidiaries in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Japan, the U.K., Korea, Australia, Taiwan, China, Spain, France, Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden. Reportable segments are largely based on management’s organization of the operating segments for operational decisions and assessments of financial performance, which consider geographic locations. The material accounting policies of the segments are as described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual Report filed on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 3, 2023, and Note 1 above. Inter-segment net sales and expenses have been eliminated in calculating total revenue and operating income. The following table provides information for the Company's reportable segments: United States Canada Other Total 12 Weeks Ended February 18, 2024 Total revenue $ 41,952 $ 7,874 $ 8,616 $ 58,442 Operating income 1,294 390 378 2,062 12 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023 Total revenue $ 40,145 $ 7,299 $ 7,822 $ 55,266 Operating income 1,295 284 324 1,903 24 Weeks Ended February 18, 2024 Total revenue $ 83,785 $ 15,775 $ 16,681 $ 116,241 Operating income 2,652 715 679 4,046 24 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023 Total revenue $ 80,290 $ 14,655 $ 14,758 $ 109,703 Operating income 2,531 572 551 3,654 53 Weeks Ended September 3, 2023 Total revenue $ 176,630 $ 33,056 $ 32,604 $ 242,290 Operating income 5,392 1,448 1,274 8,114 Disaggregated Revenue The following table summarizes net sales by merchandise category; sales from e-commerce websites and business centers have been allocated to the applicable merchandise categories: 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Foods and Sundries $ 23,675 $ 21,926 $ 46,699 $ 43,374 Non-Foods 15,017 14,741 29,783 28,773 Fresh Foods 7,996 7,376 15,324 14,093 Warehouse Ancillary and Other Businesses 10,643 10,196 22,242 21,436 Total net sales $ 57,331 $ 54,239 $ 114,048 $ 107,676

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	Feb. 18, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy	Basis of Presentation The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Costco and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All material inter-company transactions among the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q for interim financial reporting pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While these statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for fair presentation of the results of the interim period, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) for complete financial statements. Therefore, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 3, 2023.
Fiscal Period, Policy	Fiscal Year End The Company operates on a 52/53 week fiscal year basis, with the fiscal year ending on the Sunday closest to August 31. Fiscal 2024 is a 52-week year ending on September 1, 2024. References to the second quarter of 2024 and 2023 relate to the 12-week fiscal quarters ended February 18, 2024, and February 12, 2023. References to the first half of 2024 and 2023 relate to the 24 weeks ended February 18, 2024 and February 12, 2023.
Use of Estimates, Policy	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and assumptions take into account historical and forward-looking factors that the Company believes are reasonable. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.
Reclassification, Policy	Reclassification Reclassifications were made to the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the first half of fiscal 2023 to conform with current year presentation.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted, Policy	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2023-07, which is intended to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through additional disclosures about significant segment expenses. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is evaluating the new standard. In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, which focuses on income tax disclosures by requiring public business entities, on an annual basis, to disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation, provide information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, and certain information about income taxes paid. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis. Retrospective application is permitted. The Company is evaluating the new standard.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Investments (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Investments	The Company's investments were as follows: February 18, 2024: Cost Unrealized Recorded Available-for-sale: Government and agency securities $ 678 $ (13) $ 665 Held-to-maturity: Certificates of deposit 561 — 561 Total short-term investments $ 1,239 $ (13) $ 1,226 September 3, 2023: Cost Unrealized Recorded Available-for-sale: Government and agency securities $ 650 $ (17) $ 633 Held-to-maturity: Certificates of deposit 901 — 901 Total short-term investments $ 1,551 $ (17) $ 1,534
Maturities of Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Securities	The maturities of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities at February 18, 2024, are as follows: Available-For-Sale Held-To-Maturity Cost Basis Fair Value Due in one year or less $ 136 $ 135 $ 561 Due after one year through five years 370 365 — Due after five years 172 165 — Total $ 678 $ 665 $ 561

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	Level 2 February 18, September 3, Investment in government and agency securities (1) $ 669 $ 633 Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position (2) 12 18 Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position (2) (4) (7) Total $ 677 $ 644 _______________ (1) At February 18, 2024, $4 cash and cash equivalents and $665 short-term investments are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. (2) The asset and liability values are included in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Debt (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Company's Long-term Debt	The carrying value of the Company’s long-term debt consisted of the following: February 18, September 3, 2.750% Senior Notes due May 2024 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 3.000% Senior Notes due May 2027 1,000 1,000 1.375% Senior Notes due June 2027 1,250 1,250 1.600% Senior Notes due April 2030 1,750 1,750 1.750% Senior Notes due April 2032 1,000 1,000 Other long-term debt 969 484 Total long-term debt 6,969 6,484 Less unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs 24 26 Less current portion (1) 1,080 1,081 Long-term debt, excluding current portion $ 5,865 $ 5,377 _______________ (1) Net of unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs.

Equity (Tables)

Equity (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Equity (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Equity [Abstract]
Stock Repurchased During Period	The following table summarizes the repurchase activity: Shares Repurchased (000s) Average Price per Share Total Cost Second quarter of 2024 240 $ 664.02 $ 160 First half of 2024 528 $ 609.51 $ 322 Second quarter of 2023 294 $ 488.30 $ 144 First half of 2023 579 $ 492.06 $ 285

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Stock-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Summary of RSU Transactions	The following table summarizes RSU transactions during the first half of 2024: Number of Weighted-Average Outstanding at September 3, 2023 3,045 $ 405.63 Granted 1,663 545.98 Vested and delivered (1,813) 430.54 Forfeited (37) 454.02 Special cash dividend 52 N/A Outstanding at February 18, 2024 2,910 $ 462.35
Summary of Stock-Based Compensation Expense and Related Tax Benefits	The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefits: 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Stock-based compensation expense $ 136 $ 147 $ 580 $ 549 Less recognized income tax benefits 25 24 120 113 Stock-based compensation expense, net $ 111 $ 123 $ 460 $ 436

Net Income per Common and Com_2

Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following table shows the amounts used in computing net income per share and the weighted average number of shares of basic and of potentially dilutive common shares outstanding (shares in 000s): 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Net income $ 1,743 $ 1,466 $ 3,332 $ 2,830 Weighted average basic shares 443,892 443,877 443,859 443,857 RSUs 862 598 720 646 Weighted average diluted shares 444,754 444,475 444,579 444,503 Anti-dilutive RSUs — 6 — —

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	6 Months Ended
Segment Reporting (Tables)	Feb. 18, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following table provides information for the Company's reportable segments: United States Canada Other Total 12 Weeks Ended February 18, 2024 Total revenue $ 41,952 $ 7,874 $ 8,616 $ 58,442 Operating income 1,294 390 378 2,062 12 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023 Total revenue $ 40,145 $ 7,299 $ 7,822 $ 55,266 Operating income 1,295 284 324 1,903 24 Weeks Ended February 18, 2024 Total revenue $ 83,785 $ 15,775 $ 16,681 $ 116,241 Operating income 2,652 715 679 4,046 24 Weeks Ended February 12, 2023 Total revenue $ 80,290 $ 14,655 $ 14,758 $ 109,703 Operating income 2,531 572 551 3,654 53 Weeks Ended September 3, 2023 Total revenue $ 176,630 $ 33,056 $ 32,604 $ 242,290 Operating income 5,392 1,448 1,274 8,114
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]	Disaggregated Revenue The following table summarizes net sales by merchandise category; sales from e-commerce websites and business centers have been allocated to the applicable merchandise categories: 12 Weeks Ended 24 Weeks Ended February 18, February 12, February 18, February 12, Foods and Sundries $ 23,675 $ 21,926 $ 46,699 $ 43,374 Non-Foods 15,017 14,741 29,783 28,773 Fresh Foods 7,996 7,376 15,324 14,093 Warehouse Ancillary and Other Businesses 10,643 10,196 22,242 21,436 Total net sales $ 57,331 $ 54,239 $ 114,048 $ 107,676

Accounting Policies - Additiona

Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)	Feb. 18, 2024 warehouse states
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	874
UNITED STATES
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	602
Number of states in country \| states	47
CANADA
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	108
MEXICO
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	40
JAPAN
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	33
UNITED KINGDOM
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	29
KOREA
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	18
AUSTRALIA
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	15
TAIWAN
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	14
CHINA
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	6
SPAIN
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	4
FRANCE
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	2
ICELAND
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	1
NEW ZEALAND
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	1
SWEDEN
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of warehouses operated	1

Investments - Available-for-sal

Investments - Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Investments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Feb. 18, 2024	Sep. 03, 2023
Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, cost basis, total	$ 678
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	665
Debt Securities, Available-for-Sale, Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	(13)	$ (17)
Held-to-maturity, cost basis	561
Total investments, cost basis, total	1,239	1,551
Short-term investments	1,226	1,534
Government and Agency Securities
Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, cost basis, total	678	650
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale	665	633
Debt Securities, Available-for-Sale, Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	(13)	(17)
Certificates of deposit
Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity [Line Items]
Held-to-maturity, recorded basis, total	561	901
Held-to-maturity, cost basis	$ 561	$ 901

Investments - Maturities of Ava

Investments - Maturities of Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Securities (Details) $ in Millions	Feb. 18, 2024 USD ($)
Available-for-sale, Cost Basis
Due in one year or less	$ 136
Due after one year through five years	370
Due after five years	172
Available-for-sale, cost basis, total	678
Available-for-sale, Fair Value
Due in one year or less	135
Due after one year through five years	365
Due after five years	165
Available-for-sale, recorded basis, total	665
Held-to-maturity
Due in one year or less	561
Due after one year through five years	0
Due after five years	0
Held-to-maturity, cost basis, total	$ 561

Fair Value Measurement - Fair V

Fair Value Measurement - Fair Value of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended
		Nov. 20, 2022	Feb. 18, 2024	Sep. 03, 2023
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents			$ 9,095	$ 13,700
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale			665
Finance Lease, Impairment Loss		$ 93
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets measured on recurring basis			677	644
Government and Agency Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents			4
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale			665	633
Government and Agency Securities \| Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets measured on recurring basis	[1]		669	633
Forward Foreign-exchange Contracts \| Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring \| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of assets measured on recurring basis	[2]		12	18
Fair value of liabilities measured on recurring basis	[2]		$ (4)	$ (7)

[1] At February 18, 2024, $4 cash and cash equivalents and $665 short-term investments are included in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. The asset and liability values are included in other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Debt (Carrying Value and Estima

Debt (Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Company's Long-term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		6 Months Ended
		Feb. 18, 2024	Sep. 03, 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 6,969	$ 6,484
Less unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs		24	26
Current portion of long-term debt	[1]	1,080	1,081
Long-term debt, excluding current portion		5,865	5,377
Proceeds from Issuance of Other Long-Term Debt		500
Long-term Debt, Fair Value		$ 6,306	5,738
Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		1.40%
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		2.12%
2.75% Senior Notes Due May 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 1,000	1,000
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		2.75%
3.00% Senior Notes Due May 2027
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 1,000	1,000
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		3%
1.375% Senior Notes Due June 2027
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 1,250	1,250
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		1.375%
1.60% Senior Notes Due April 2030
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 1,750	1,750
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		1.60%
1.750% Senior Notes Due April 2032
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 1,000	1,000
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage		1.75%
Other Long-term Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-Term Debt, Gross		$ 969	$ 484

[1]Net of unamortized debt discounts and issuance costs

Equity - Additional Information

Equity - Additional Information - Dividends (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions		3 Months Ended
	Dec. 13, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Common Stock [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 15
Dividends declared	$ 15
Dividend Rate
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared		$ 1.02	$ 0.90
Dividends declared		$ 1.02	$ 0.90
Special Dividend \| Common Stock [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Dividends	$ 6,655

Equity (Stock Repurchased Durin

Equity (Stock Repurchased During Period) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Equity [Abstract]
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	240	294	528	579
Average price per share	$ 664.02	$ 488.30	$ 609.51	$ 492.06
Total Cost	$ (160)	$ (144)	$ (322)	$ (285)

Equity - Additional Informati_2

Equity - Additional Information - Stock Repurchase Programs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Feb. 18, 2024	Jan. 19, 2023
Equity [Abstract]
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount	$ 3,241
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		$ 4,000

Stock-Based Compensation Plan_2

Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Detail) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024 USD ($) shares	Dec. 27, 2023 ؋ / shares $ / shares	Dec. 26, 2023 $ / shares	Sep. 03, 2023 shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
SpecialCashDividendSharesAdjustmentRatio \| ؋ / shares		1.018
Share Price \| $ / shares		$ 662.70	$ 674.62
Special cash dividend	52
Mandatory Proportional Adjustment to Shares Available to be Granted	128
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares	2,910			3,045
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available to be granted	7,249
Time-based RSUs awards outstanding	2,749
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares	70
Unrecognized compensation cost \| $	$ 1,098
Weighted-average recognition period	1 year 9 months 18 days
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 9 months 18 days
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding performance-based RSUs awards granted, subject to achievement of performance targets	91
Maximum [Member] \| Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available to be granted	15,885

Stock-Based Compensation Plan_3

Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of RSU Transactions (Details) shares in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024 $ / shares shares
Number of units
Outstanding at September 3, 2023	3,045
Granted	1,663
Vested and delivered	(1,813)
Forfeited	(37)
Special cash dividend	52
Outstanding at February 18, 2024	2,910
Weighted average grant date fair value
Outstanding at September 3, 2023 \| $ / shares	$ 405.63
Granted \| $ / shares	545.98
Vested and delivered \| $ / shares	430.54
Forfeited \| $ / shares	454.02
Outstanding at February 18, 2024 \| $ / shares	$ 462.35

Stock-Based Compensation Plan_4

Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of Stock-Based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes	$ 136	$ 147	$ 580	$ 549
Less recognized income tax benefit	25	24	120	113
Stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes	$ 111	$ 123	$ 460	$ 436

Net Income per Common and Com_3

Net Income per Common and Common Equivalent Share - Schedule of Earnings per Share Effect on Net Income and Weighted Average Number of Dilutive Potential Common Stock (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
NET INCOME	$ 1,743	$ 1,466	$ 3,332	$ 2,830
Weighted average number of common shares used in basic net income per common share	443,892	443,877	443,859	443,857
RSUs	862	598	720	646
Weighted average number of common shares and dilutive potential of common stock used in diluted net income per share	444,754	444,475	444,579	444,503
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	0	6	0	0

Commitments and Contingencies C

Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 03, 2023 USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value	$ 70

Segment Reporting Information b

Segment Reporting Information by Segment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Sep. 03, 2023
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Revenue	$ 58,442	$ 55,266	$ 116,241	$ 109,703	$ 242,290
Operating Income	2,062	1,903	4,046	3,654	8,114
Operating Segments [Member] \| United States Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Revenue	41,952	40,145	83,785	80,290	176,630
Operating Income	1,294	1,295	2,652	2,531	5,392
Operating Segments [Member] \| Canada Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Revenue	7,874	7,299	15,775	14,655	33,056
Operating Income	390	284	715	572	1,448
Operating Segments [Member] \| Other International Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Revenue	8,616	7,822	16,681	14,758	32,604
Operating Income	$ 378	$ 324	$ 679	$ 551	$ 1,274

Segment Reporting Segment Repor

Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information by Item Category (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023	Feb. 18, 2024	Feb. 12, 2023
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	$ 58,442	$ 55,266	$ 116,241	$ 109,703
Foods and Sundries [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	23,675	21,926	46,699	43,374
Non-Foods [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	15,017	14,741	29,783	28,773
Fresh Foods [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	7,996	7,376	15,324	14,093
Ancillary and Other Businesses
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	10,643	10,196	22,242	21,436
Net Sales
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total Revenue	$ 57,331	$ 54,239	$ 114,048	$ 107,676