METRO is definitely equivalent to America's version of Costco or Sam's club. You need a membership to enter, but if you work for the dept of defense-- your supervisor can write you a letter that can potentially get you qualified to get a METRO Club card. There is no fee, so it's pretty nice. You can buy food items in bulk, home items, things for the garden, wine, home appliances, office supplies, and a variety of fish, meat, produce, and frozen items.
There were two ladies at the information desk. I asked politely (in German) if anyone spoke English, luckily one was able to assist me. They took my letter, inputted my name in the computer, asked me to fill out some paperwork, took my picture and gave me a membership card.
The store is huge. I spent a good 40 minutes walking around during my first visit. I didn't buy anything except a big pack of Brita filters. It was 30 euros for a box of 8! Definitely cheaper buying in bulk rather than at REWE or Globus. read more