TL;DR
Regional grocers can establish loyalty and attract Gen Z shoppers by streamlining their digital platforms. By understanding local preferences and incorporating innovative features, independent retailers can compete with larger competitors and enhance their customers’ shopping experience. This article explores key app elements and how several regional grocers are taking advantage of them.
Establishing a strong digital presence is crucial for independent retailers to compete with national chains. While regional grocers might not have the same technological capabilities as larger competitors, they can leverage their understanding of local preferences to attract shoppers, especially Gen Z consumers known for their tech savviness. According to the latest U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends report, Gen Z shoppers make up 11% of online-reliant shoppers and spend 20% of their grocery shopping dollars online. By streamlining their digital platforms and incorporating innovative features, independent retailers have the opportunity to stand out and capture the loyalty of these younger consumers.
One key element is the transition to digital circulars. Regional grocers like Publix, Cub Foods, and Schnuck Markets have made their digital weekly circulars easily accessible on their homepage, allowing customers to maximize their shopping experience. Publix even enables customers to view upcoming circulars and provides shoppable recipes to enhance their in-app shopping lists. Cub Foods and Schnuck Markets offer additional circulars focusing on specific categories, such as liquor and seasonal foods, giving customers more options and encouraging engagement.
Another important element is organizing the app’s aisles or categories. ShopRite offers detailed virtual aisles that lead shoppers to specific items and even sections of the store they may not have explored otherwise. Wegmans and H-E-B use visually appealing photos to showcase their categories, making it easier for shoppers to find what they’re looking for. By organizing their digital platforms effectively, independent retailers can provide a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience for their customers.
Beyond grocery items, regional grocers can also incorporate additional services into their apps to meet broader expectations. Offering pharmacy access through the app, allowing customers to refill prescriptions or find the nearest pharmacy, adds convenience and value to the digital shopping experience. While many grocers offer features like delivery and curbside pickup, having these options within the primary app, like Cub Foods does, makes the process more streamlined and user-friendly.
Incorporating these key elements into their digital platforms can help independent retailers compete with national chains, attract Gen Z shoppers, and establish customer loyalty. By understanding local preferences and utilizing innovative tools, independent retailers have the opportunity to enhance their online presence and provide a seamless shopping experience for their customers.
