Waitrose Join Forces for Swift Grocery Deliveries
Waitrose is shaking up the grocery scene. The upscale retailer has joined hands with Just Eat, the UK’s largest food delivery platform. This team-up aims to satisfy the growing hunger for quick and easy grocery shopping.
The partnership will roll out over the next few weeks. It’ll cover 229 Waitrose locations across the UK. Shoppers in major cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow can already enjoy the service.
James Bailey, Waitrose’s Executive Director, shared his excitement. “We’re bringing Waitrose quality to customers’ doorsteps faster than ever,” he said. “This move meets the rising demand for convenience without compromising on our standards.”
More Than Just a Quick Fix
Just Eat isn’t new to the grocery game. They already deliver 12 grocery orders every minute in the UK. Now, they’re adding Waitrose’s premium offerings to their menu.
Customers can choose from thousands of Waitrose items. The selection includes the fancy Waitrose No. 1 range and budget-friendly Essential Waitrose products. Health-conscious shoppers will find plenty of free-from and vegan options too.
Claire Pointon, Just Eat’s UK and Ireland chief, sees this as a game-changer. “Speed isn’t a luxury anymore – it’s a necessity,” she explained. “Our research shows that three in four on-demand grocery users see it becoming part of their daily lives.”
Convenience is King
Waitrose isn’t stopping at delivery. They’re also planning to open 100 new convenience shops in the next five years. This expansion includes partnerships with Shell forecourts and Welcome Break service areas.
The move comes as Waitrose reports a 140% jump in weekly on-demand grocery sales. It’s clear that shoppers are craving convenience more than ever.
“We’re meeting customers where they are,” Bailey added. “Whether it’s through Just Eat, our new shops, or our existing stores, we’re making it easier to enjoy Waitrose quality anytime, anywhere.”
A Tasty Future
The partnership opens up new possibilities for both companies. Just Eat customers will soon have access to over 550 Waitrose Christmas products. This includes 175 new festive treats for the 2024 holiday season.
For Just Eat, adding Waitrose to their roster is part of a bigger plan. They’ve recently partnered with other big names like Boots and Cardfactory. It’s all about offering more choices and value to their customers.
As the lines between traditional grocery shopping and on-demand delivery blur, this partnership could set a new standard. It’s a move that industry watchers and investors will be keeping a close eye on.
In a world where time is precious, Waitrose and Just Eat are serving up a solution that could change how we shop for groceries. It’s convenience, quality, and speed – all wrapped up in one tasty package.