Grocers add virtual content to their customers

Some grocers are getting creative with ways to keep customers engaged and entertained in the US. Even with the significant increase in grocery demand, 59% of people report shopping less for groceries, according to new research from PYMNTS. More than half of the consumers (52 percent) who shifted to digital grocery shopping say they won’t go back to their old ways of shopping, as online delivery and curbside pickup are gaining ground. At the same time consumers need the contact, engagement, retail brand experience.

Let’s cook together

In Los Angeles, Hispanic grocery chain Northgate Gonzales Market launched a bilingual multimedia platform called Stay-at-Home Solutions offering recipes, DIY ideas, activities and more to keep families busy. Northgate Gonzalez is using a special kids-focused holiday called Dia de Los Ninos, which celebrates children and takes place April 30, to launch its platform.

In-Los-Angeles-Northgate-Gonzales-Market-launched a bilingual multimedia platform called Stay-at-Home Solutions

Behind-the-scene

In Ohio, Jungle Jim’s Facebook Live events this week with founder „Jungle” Jim Bonaminio and other company experts. Topics include assembling a charcuterie board by the cheese expert, a question-and-answer session about Jungle Jim’s and a behind-the-scenes look at store operations and how the store was created. Customers may add to the conversation, as the goal is to cover numerous questions during the live stream. Customers may suggest further topics to the series.

Jungle-Jim’s live stream and live Q&A series on Facebook

Helpful Smiles

Midwestern grocer Hy-Vee hasn’t let up at all since the COVID-19 outbreak began. From implementing one-way-aisle to telehealth services, including mental health visits for the employees, the company has been at the bleeding edge of health and safety practices for customers and employees.  Hy-Vee’s e-commerce business, Aisles Online, has been “on fire” but the stores have been able to handle the additional demand and also provide same-day pickup and a wider array of products. Hy-Vee has also engaged more with customers through digital efforts with their 35 provided on their Helpful Smiles TV.  Most popular nowadays is Hy-Vee KidsFit, which offers daily exercise videos for kids. The company also launched a hashtag, #HelpfulSmileStrong, to connect with shoppers on social media, with celebrities and shoppers participating.

Ildikó Kátai

Hy-Vee-KidsFit offers daily exercise videos for kids