Steve Barnett, trading director of Costco UK, dies

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Steve Barnett, trading director of Costco UK.

One of the original nine-strong Costco UK set-up team, Barnett (pictured) was instrumental in building the business to what it is today.  A statement by Costco said: “The impact that Steve has had on Costco UK cannot be measured – the buying team’s ethics, drive and success are as a result of Steve’s leadership. 

“Steve’s fundamental belief in Costco’s ethics and the impact on the welfare of Costco employees and vendors was the focus of his every instruction, and continuing development of a sustainable buying programme was his passion.”  

Barnett joined Costco UK in 1993 from a retail background, having previously worked for TJ Hughes and Bentalls. As Costco UK’s first buyer for ‘softlines’ in 1993, he progressed through the company and moved to the executive position of trading director – a position he held for more than 15 years. 

The Costco statement added: “Steve was born in London a true Cockney – he stated he could hear the sound of bow bells when he was born, and given that Steve had a wicked sense of humour it was probably true!   

“In his late teens and early 20s Steve was an accomplished horse trainer and competitor within the world of show jumping, and he was an avid reader who adored history. Steve’s passion and love was all about family – there was nothing more important to him.

“Steve was a businessman, a tremendous leader and a very good friend to many at Costco; his presence and personality will be missed at every level within the company here in the UK and across the international Costco team.”

Barnett is survived by his wife Annette and children Jessica and Izzie.