Costco, Harmons, Kroger, Woodman’s leverage Instacart tech for express and priority delivery services

Costco is expanding the ways members can shop on their own terms through its e-commerce platform powered by Instacart by offering No-Rush Delivery and Priority Delivery services.

Kroger, meanwhile, is also introducing Express Delivery, providing grocery delivery in as fast as 30 minutes directly from the retailer’s app and website. 

And through full stack, end-to-end tech like Instacart Storefront Pro, retailers like Harmons and Woodman’s are integrating fulfillment directly into their e-commerce offering. Customers shop as usual directly on retailers’ websites and apps, select a time slot, and Instacart handles the rest – from picking and packing to last mile delivery.

“We’re focused on helping retailers increase availability and speed, while giving customers more same-day options no matter how they choose to shop,” says Ryan Hamburger, Vice President of Retail Partnerships at Instacart.

“By introducing flexible fulfillment offerings like Priority Delivery, retailers can meet the demand for convenience while unlocking potential incremental volume. Whether it’s faster delivery, full service shopping, or scalable last mile support, we’re committed to powering the tools our partners need to grow and serve their customers on their own terms.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Rapid delivery will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.