Costco recalls Synergy gift cards after program abruptly ends

WASHINGTON — Costco recalled some restaurant gift cards after the third party company managing the card abruptly discontinued the program.

Synergy Restaurant Gift Cards were described by owner Synergy World Inc. as a “multi-merchant gift card accepted at a network of restaurants.”

Their website shows local businesses like Dillon’s KC BBQ, Eggworks and Egg & I, Las Vegas Family Restaurants, Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza and Sombrero Mexican Food as some businesses within the program.

“It is with a heavy heart that Synergy World has made the difficult decision to discontinue the Synergy Restaurant Gift Card Program,” the company website reads. “We fully recognize and sincerely regret the impact this decision has had on our cardholders and the many local restaurants.” 

Costco issued a recall to members who purchased the gift cards from them between Oct. 27, 2025, to Jan. 31, 2026. 

“Unfortunately, we were recently notified by the Synergy Gift Card Network/Synergy World they would be ceasing operations effective January 31st, 2026,” Costco said in a letter to members.  

The Synergy World Gift Card website said the program ran for 19 years and “served as a valued platform that helped consumers enjoy savings on every meal while introducing new patrons to hundreds of local businesses.”

Fox Business reported Synergy World recently filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection.

Most retailers, including Costco, don’t typically offer refunds on gift cards, but Costco is encouraging customers who are unable to use their remaining card balance to return the item to their local Costco for a refund. It’s unclear whether the full card total will be issued.

The Synergy Gift Card website allows customers to check their remaining balance.