The way we shop is changing. Consumers are going online instead of going to the store; even when it comes to groceries. It’s the reason Meijer has teamed with Shipt, to bring grocery delivery to West Michigan.
With the new service launching on Wednesday, March 29, I put the new partnership to the test. I wanted to know if it was convenient and determine the difference in cost. Shipt Spokesperson Julie Coop set me up with a trial account and I ordered items on my own.
"Shipt is an app-based delivery company. So, you go to the website or smart phone app and order your groceries," Coop said.
I chose items ranging from produce and meat; to frozen foods and snacks. The order is sent to the Shipt shopper closest to your home.
I had a photographer follow the shopper around the store. In the meantime, I shopped and paid for the same items at another store.
My first thought: when it came to produce, like asparagus, I got to pick out what I wanted. I immediately noticed the price was different. Online it was $3.29, but cost $2.99 in the store.
Coop said, "We utilize Shipt pricing, so our system is different than Meijer. Prices vary about $5 on a $35 order.”
The Meijer bill totaled at $38.73. The Shipt bill was $40.56. Not a huge difference. I had the groceries delivered to the WZZM studio. After adding a $5 tip, the price was $45.56.
Art Sebastian, Director of Digital Shopping for Meijer said, “Shopping continues to change, it continues to evolve. Technology plays a bigger role in our lives. We also know people are busy. Everyone is looking for ways to save time."
Here's what you need to know if you plan to sign up:
- The subscription fee is $99.00 per year
- To get free shipping, you must spend at least $35.00
- A service fee of $7.00 is added to orders under $35.00
Ultimately, it is up to the shopper to decide if the added cost is worth the convenience. Shipt is offering $25 off your first order right now.
Meijer said it plans to expand the service to the Lakeshore, Kalamazoo and Ionia in the near future.
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