Anne Bieler

Publix is Back Online

August 10, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
Publix closed its PublixDirect online grocery and home delivery service in August 2003, just two years after the service launched, due to insufficient volume. Now, the grocery chain is back with a test of an online grocery service, but this one will only include curbside pickup. Will Publix Curbside be successful where PublixDirect was not?      [more...]

This move is the right one for Publix. Site to store programs are gaining momentum in many parts of the country. It saves time--just pay and go. Searching through the store, especially with heavy items like soft drinks and laundry products on the cart is not something most shoppers look forward to.

Retailers like Publix are in a great position to keep their shoppers coming back. Most households buy the same 300 or so SKUs weekly to cover the basics and preferred brands. Making the stock-up trip for routine purchases a quick pickup will be an easy habit to develop. Shoppers may still want to shop the fresh produce, meat and deli areas, but that is a lot faster than loading in all the bulky and heavy items.

For Publix, picking and packing can be done efficiently, and with less in-store labor. Some supermarkets are offering online only larger packages of canned items, paper goods, etc, that are better value. These cases are too bulky for the trade floor and awkward for the shopper to handle--now made convenient by loading directly into the car. More services to add value can be being developed here. Look for this program to expand.