We’ve all heard of pop-up bars, parties, and restaurants, but a pop-up wholesaler? It sounds unlikely, yet that’s essentially what happened when Costco seemed to rise overnight in The Villages. The massive warehouse and gas station complex went from bare ground to fully operational in just a few months. It reminded me of how I imagined Vegas springing up in the desert—only this oasis is full of towering pallets of Kirkland Signature paper towels, rotisserie chickens fresh from the oven, $1.50 hot dog-and-soda combos, bulk snack packs, aisles of electronics, seasonal décor, and wine by the case. There’s also a pharmacy, optician, and tire shop. And let’s not forget the samples. Lots and lots of samples.

I couldn’t wait. I grew up with Costcos on every corner, so when I found out one was op

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