This probably isn't your first time reading about how COVID-19 has served as a catalyst for technology adoption across retail. But what hasn't been addressed is whether or not specific consumer behaviors embraced during the pandemic will turn into habits that last long-term.
For example, as retailers worked to keep employees and shoppers safe, buy online, pickup in store (BOPIS), and curbside pickup gained momentum. Adobe Analytics found that BOPIS orders surged 208% in April compared to April 2019.
Is BOPIS here to stay?
BOPIS has been viewed as a win-win for consumers and retailers alike. For shoppers, it’s a quick and convenient method to buy essential products. With concerns around COVID-19, it’s also a safe method that minimizes contact. Take for example, a family that’s working from home that has children. Getting groceries for the week becomes that much more difficult when stores request only one shopper per household, not to mention potential exposure risks.
On the flip side, BOPIS has proved to be a beneficial technology to retailers as it’s more cost-effective than delivery options. It has also been important to quickly deploy. As many were forced to reduce store hours for cleaning and re-stocking, and limit in-store foot traffic, quickly finding fulfillment solutions such as curbside pickup and BOPIS helped alleviate losses incurred from these restrictions.
The problem with implementation
There is much curiosity around the future of BOPIS. With consumers quick to adopt and adapt to the technology, will they be quick to abandon it in favor of shopping in store once it’s safe again (and who knows when that will be)? What do retailers looking to implement BOPIS need to consider? Luckily for them, BOPIS is getting a new look.
Prior to COVID-19, BOPIS was already a fully functional service that many larger retailers offered and one that had been gaining popularity. But for smaller retailers, execution tended to be more difficult. COVID-19, though, proved time was of the essence. If retailers didn’t have quick reflexes, shoppers would find somewhere else.
Of course, major implementations or system overhauls – especially in a hurry – to install BOPIS as a new service isn’t really ideal. And fortunately, it’s not even necessary.
BOPIS' new look
The new look of BOPIS is much “lighter.” It allows for the technology to be deployed instantly, without the need to integrate with existing systems. As soon as it’s needed, it’s available. What’s more, flexible BOPIS has the ability to stand as an independent solution. All that’s required is a smartphone-enabled app and a QR code. If any products are unavailable, a retailer can simply note them in the app. Users can automatically sort shopping lists according to refrigeration zones, providing an easy-to-use navigational interface.
A flexible, standalone BOPIS solution also provides the option for retailers to address integrations later on, as they have the need or desire to do so. For example, they can automate pricing and promotions and merchandise management. This ensures that running a seasonal campaign or adding new products to the BOPIS offering is simple. Doing so makes management of the BOPIS solution easier long-term and also allows for integrations to be available as soon as they’re needed.
Instanly deliver service
In the tough and fast-changing climate of retail, speed and scale is essential. Consumers will continue to utilize BOPIS because convenience and saving time are major factors in grocery success.
Although implementation has historically been difficult for retailers who need to instantly deploy BOPIS services – and impossible without integrating with their existing systems – that’s no longer the case. GetMyGooods is an app that does just that, playing a critical role enabling simple grocery ordering and pickup while ensuring the protection of everyone involved.
