Waitrose has agreed on a two-year deal with Deliveroo that will see its rapid grocery delivery service rolled out to 110 more stores across the country.
The supermarket began a five-store trial with the delivery firm in September last year, with the service now available from 40 of its shops. Sales of Waitrose products through Deliveroo are said to have been strong and helped the upmarket chain attract new and younger customers.
The expansion of the partnership will increase the number of Waitrose stores on Deliveroo to 150 in total by the end of the summer, taking the number of people who can access the service to around 13 million. Shoppers will be able to choose from an increased range of between 750 to 1,000 Waitrose products and have them delivered in as little as 20 minutes.
Up to 400 new jobs will be created in the Waitrose stores where the Deliveroo service is being introduced to fulfil orders.
James Bailey, Executive Director for Waitrose, said: “We have grown our online business at pace in the last year, responding to huge demand for online groceries and offering more choice in when and how people want to shop with us.
“We know convenience is key for many of our customers and the expansion of the service with Deliveroo will play an integral role in helping us make Waitrose food more convenient than ever before.”
Carlo Mocci, Deliveroo’s Chief Business Officer UK&I, added: “This partnership is a core part of our expansion strategy which has already reached 60% of the UK population, driven by strong demand for our grocery offering. Waitrose is one of the most respected and well-known British companies and we are extremely proud to expand this partnership right across the country, laying the foundation for future growth.”
Sainsbury’s recently expanded its trials with Deliveroo. The delivery firm, which made a disappointing debut on the London stock market last month, also forged partnerships with Aldi, Morrisons, McColl’s, M&S and the Co-op during 2020.
NAM Implications:
- Given the extent and speed of roll-out…
- …the Deliveroo initiative appears to be working.
- Therefore anticipate a full roll-out…
- …and find a way of being on board.
- Now…
