Costco opened its new store in Canberra today and the line of customers outside the store has led other retailers to question what the US members' only retailer has done to get such a reception.

The US retail giant prides itself on selling high-quality; branded merchandise to its exclusive members and it is this sense of exclusivity as well as the low prices that get customers coming back for more.

Canberra residents discovered the joys of shopping in Costco when the store opened this morning. From tuna fish to diamond necklaces, you can find anything you could possibly want in Costco. The store aims to provide a retail shopping experience where customers can browse through every category in retail and it plans to have a store in every Australian city.

The big attraction in any Costco store would have to be the appliance and electronics section which offers rare deals for the customer.

Sam Gerrey, manager for electronics, said that the store offered "much cheaper prices than other stores".

"We only sell name brands unlike many other stores that offer low prices," Gerrey said. "We've got a good team of staff who know their stuff, and there's no need to wait for someone to get the box for you from a storeroom out the back."

The store's best sellers would have to be the Samsung Series 4 D450 flat panel television available for only $589.99. Other television models range from the Sony Bravia 46-inch LED LCD Full HD TV for $1,249 to a Panasonic Viera 50-inch neo plasma with Wi-Fi and 3D for $2,499.99

Stacey Auhl, Costco's optical, hearing and photo manager told current.com.au that the warehouse was popular because it offered a cheaper alternative to other retail stores.

"There are too many big box retailers who just choose their prices and they set them high," said Auhl. "It's about time we don't have retailers marking up so much. And a little competition is always healthy.

"Costco offers value for money, choices and convenience. You can get your photos printed while you go around and do your grocery shopping, so there's no need to make a special trip just to purchase the one item," she added.