Retailers are finding new ways to make shopping in the store easier. Publix is giving customers the opportunity to replace the deli numbers with pre-ordering on their smartphones. How long before store layouts start to evolve to support smartphone ordering?
Publix completes rollout of online deli ordering system
By Margaret Cashill
Publix Super Markets Inc. is on track to complete rollout of an online/mobile deli ordering system by summer.
The Lakeland grocery chain began in-house development of “Deli Online Easy Ordering” about two years ago. Publix expects to offer it for all of its 1,077 stores by July.
The system allows users to place deli orders 15 to 20 minutes ahead of pick-up using a computer, smartphone or tablet. It is accessible through the “deli selections” section of the Publix website.
“The No. 1 complaint we’ve had from our customers for years is standing in line at the deli,” a spokesman said. “Now if you have a computer or smartphone, you don’t have to do that.”
Publix has stores in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee.