Think Kirkland Signature is just a generic brand? Think again. Behind many of those minimalist labels at Costco lies a surprising secret: some of your favorite name-brand companies are quietly producing these products—then letting Costco slap its own label on them. The result? Premium quality for a fraction of the price.
We dug into the sourcing, rumors, and confirmations to bring you the truth about which big-name brands are behind Kirkland Signature items—and which Kirkland exclusives still rival top-tier competitors.
Kirkland Signature Coffee
Made By: Starbucks (select varieties)
Yes, your morning cup of Kirkland might just be a Starbucks roast in disguise. Costco has confirmed that certain blends, like the Kirkland Signature House Blend, are roasted by Starbucks. Same beans, lower price.
Kirkland Signature Pet Food
Made By: Diamond Pet Foods
The same company that makes Diamond Naturals produces Kirkland’s dry dog and cat food in U.S.-based facilities. High protein, real meat ingredients—and rave reviews from pet parents.
Kirkland Signature Diapers
Rumored Brand: Huggies (Kimberly-Clark)
While Costco hasn’t confirmed it, many parents swear that Kirkland diapers perform just like Huggies. Manufactured by Kimberly-Clark, they’re widely believed to be an older Huggies design—with a much lower price tag.
Kirkland Signature Jelly Beans
Made By: Jelly Belly
You didn’t hear it from us (okay, you did)—but those big Kirkland tubs of jelly beans are manufactured by Jelly Belly and include 49 classic flavors. A sweet steal.
Kirkland Signature Batteries
Made By: Duracell
Confirmed straight from Costco’s CEO—these AA and AAA batteries are made by Duracell. The only real difference? Price.
Kirkland Signature Grass-Fed Butter
Comparable To: Kerrygold Butter
Rich, creamy, and golden, Costco’s grass-fed butter rivals Irish favorite Kerrygold. Both are sourced from pasture-raised cows, and shoppers say you’d never know the difference.
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Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano
Made By: Formaggi Zanetti (Italy)
Costco’s 24-month aged Parmesan isn’t just imported—it’s produced by Italian cheesemaker Formaggi Zanetti. This is the real deal, DOP-certified and all.
Kirkland Signature Tuna
Made By: Bumble Bee Foods
Costco’s skipjack and albacore tuna are sourced from Bumble Bee, giving you the same trusted quality without the inflated price tag.
Kirkland Signature Moisture Haircare
Rumored Brand: Pureology
Sulfate-free, paraben-free, color-safe—and eerily similar to Pureology. Though never officially confirmed, loyal fans insist the Kirkland shampoo and conditioner feel identical.
Kirkland Signature Vodka
Rumored Brand: Grey Goose (French Vodka)
Kirkland’s French Vodka is distilled just across the street from Grey Goose in France—using the same water source and similar equipment. Taste tests say it’s nearly indistinguishable, but the price tag sure isn’t: $19.99 vs. $47.99 for the same 1.75L bottle.
Kirkland Signature Bottled Water
Rumored Brand: Niagara
Costco hasn’t confirmed it, but insiders believe their bottled water is sourced from Niagara. The taste? Nearly identical—and it’s a fraction of the cost.
Kirkland Signature Laundry Detergent
Rumored Brand: Persil (Henkel)
This UltraClean formula is suspected to come from Henkel, the German manufacturer of Persil. It’s powerful, fresh-smelling, and way cheaper per load.
Kirkland Signature Foil
Made By: Reynolds (confirmed)
Costco’s food service foil is manufactured by Reynolds, the same brand found in most kitchens—but with a massive value roll and Costco pricing.
Final Thoughts
Next time you toss Kirkland Signature into your cart, know this: you’re not downgrading. In fact, you might be getting the exact same product as your favorite name brand—just with a friendlier price and Costco’s seal of approval.
So go ahead. Fill up that cart with confidence. You’ve been buying name brands all along—and saving big while you’re at it.
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