Grocery stores are continuing to cash in on the surging e-commerce channel. 2020 saw some triple digit annual percentage gains and many chains are looking to raise the bar. One example is Ahold Delhaize. The Dutch operator of U.S. brands including Stop & Shop, Giant Stores, and Food Lion, intends to continue its heavy investment in online ordering and fulfillment.
The firm already owns Peapod and most recently acquired a majority stake in FreshDirect, another leading grocery delivery service. Online order fulfillment is expensive especially for the last mile of delivery. So expect online retailers to emphasize curbside pickup which has gained popularity with click-and-collect consumers who also save by avoiding delivery fees.