Costco has quietly made the decision to no longer sell sheet cakes as the coronavirus pandemic continues nationwide.
CNN reported the company stopped selling the $20 half-sheet cakes across its U.S. stores during the last month. In an attempt to calm customers who are upset about the change, the company has pointed people to its 10-inch round cakes and other baked goods.
In a Facebook post about graduation cakes made in late May, Costco referenced the change.
“Half-sheet cakes are currently not available to order or customize,” the company said in a notice in the post.
Complaints followed in the comments.
"Please bring back the sheet cakes, even if just for preorder," Kristy Murphy wrote in a comment. "The round are not large enough for larger families."
"It is ridiculous that they are not making the sheet cakes, as an order," Sarah Madsen wrote.
“Costco please bring back the half sheet cakes once they’re safe to make. So many people rely on those cakes for special occasions!” read another comment. “It would be a shame to discontinue them. You all have the best cake around. Period!”
Despite some customer requests that the cake be available for special order, it’s not happening.
"To help limit personal contact and create more space for social distancing, Costco has reduced service in some departments," a representative for the company said on Facebook. "At this time, we are not making sheet cakes for special order."
Costco said in a statement there are "no immediate plans" for the sheet cakes to come back. They are not being sold at any location in the U.S., The New York Times reported.
“We are focusing on our smaller 10" White & 10" Chocolate Cakes that seem to be resonating with our members,” Costco said in a statement.
The decision to stop selling such large cakes also aligns with recommendations from health agencies to avoid or ban large gatherings to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Costco’s 10” cakes have “14 Generously Sized Precut Slices,” according to the Costco website. Its sheet cakes were advertised as serving 48 people, The New York Times reported.
Like Costco, Sam’s Club and Kroger stores have stopped selling sheet cakes, CNN reported. Walmart, Albertson’s and H-E-B are still selling sheet cakes in different sizes.
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