As a result of the pandemic, holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas, as well as events like company parties, will likely have a virtual aspect to them. However, as friends and families remain distanced, the need to connect will be stronger than ever. Whether consumers are looking to keep old traditions or are starting new ones, grocers can – and should – serve as an important touchpoint to make their holidays memorable. Offering safe and convenient options bolstered by technology is the path to success.
In order to serve their customers during this unprecedented holiday season, here are three C’s for grocers to consider.
Connect online
A recent survey found that 68% of consumers ordered groceries online between March and August of this year. As shoppers move to digital channels to fill their pantries and prep for the holidays, grocers can foster deeper connections with shoppers by providing a variety of personalized and interactive online features.
For example, using a shopper’s mobile device, grocers can make recipe lists interactive and sharable. This feature can be used for a virtual wine and cheese tasting among neighbors, where everyone can easily order the same products for a shared experience. A grandmother’s famous stuffing recipe can be distributed among family for Thanksgiving, and all of the ingredients can easily be placed in a virtual shopping cart with a click of a button.
What’s more, with mobile devices, grocers can continue to inform shoppers about promotions, coupons or loyalty rewards. At home or in the store, shoppers have their phones within an arms’ reach – why not take advantage and provide them with an unforgettable holiday experience?
Contactless payments
A majority of shoppers find that long lines are the most frustrating part of shopping during the holidays. Accelerated by the pandemic, contactless payments and curbside options have emerged as effective methods to serve shoppers, regardless of whether they choose to shop in the store or not.
For those who shop in store, self-scanning and mobile payments can provide frictionless checkout, without having to wait in a long line. The pandemic has led to consumers to quickly adapt these no-touch options, as they are viewed as a safer and more sanitary payment method. Not only does it eliminate shoppers’ need for physical contact, but it also cuts down on that much-dreaded checkout line where groceries must be unloaded and bagged up.
Grocers must implement these flexible contactless payment options to adapt to changing market conditions and quickly adjust processes that cater to any customer’s needs.
Curbside pickup
The number of delivery options has risen, and buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) and curbside pickup have proven themselves to be popular options. Shoppers can quickly get their groceries without having to worry about shipping, yet also minimize contact with other shoppers. During the holidays, these options will only continue to grow as shoppers stock up for the festivities.
Offering curbside and similar services is important for grocers as it is now a differentiating factor when it comes to shopping with the brand. Grocers should ensure that their curbside experience is convenient and fast, and is user-friendly so that anyone can easily utilize this fulfillment option.
Transition with shoppers' needs in mind
Convenience and safety are at the top of the list for many shoppers, and that won’t change anytime soon. As we head into the holiday season and 2021, grocers must be able to flexibly provide frictionless transactions, pick-up options and online services. From our Mobile Consumer Assistant to MobilePOS solutions, we’re here to help you make that transition for a merry and bright future ahead.
