Kroger announces rapid Ship roll-out

Kroger has stepped up its attempts to compete with Amazon with the launch of e-commerce grocery delivery service, Kroger Ship, pitched as its “next step in creating a seamless experience that allows our customers to shop when and how they want”.

Yael Cosset, Kroger's Chief Digital Officer, says: "Our new service is just one more way we are redefining the customer experience as part of Restock Kroger, bringing more convenience and options to shoppers across America. Kroger Ship complements and joins our 2,800 grocery stores, 1,250 curbside pickup locations, and delivery service from 1,200 locations."

The service is launching in four markets: Cincinnati, Houston, Louisville, and Nashville, with additional markets set to follow over the next few months. During the first phase of Kroger Ship, customers can shop from a curated selection of 4,500 Our Brands products, which are not available anywhere else online, and more than 50,000 centre-aisle groceries and household essentials.

It is free on orders over $35, otherwise shipping is $4.99 per order. Ship customers will get exclusive money-saving opportunities, including promo codes and pricing deals along with a set-and-save subscription model. During the launch phase, customers will receive free shipping, no minimum purchase required, and 15% off their order with a one-time-use promo code.

"Kroger is building on our expansive logistics and fulfillment infrastructure to support the rapid roll-out of Ship," says Frank Bruni, Vice President of Supply Chain and Procurement. "With the support of Our Brands, and Kroger's manufacturers and suppliers, our vision is to build a seamless e-commerce system that offers our customers an ever-growing number of products and allows Kroger to ship nationwide, serving America through food inspiration and uplift."