BOISE, ID - The race to win over consumers’ hearts continues as retailers vie for long-time loyalty. Albertsons’ latest launch positions it to attract new consumers as it is now piloting PickUp lockers in select Chicago Jewel-Osco and Bay Area Safeway stores as the newest option for e-commerce orders.

“Contactless PickUp through our state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled lockers makes it even easier to shop with us,” said Chris Rupp, EVP and Chief Customer and Digital Officer at Albertsons. “Whether customers choose to shop in our familiar neighborhood stores or through our websites and apps, we are ready to provide them with extraordinary service where and how they want to get their groceries. Our strategy to leverage technology and innovation to continue to grow our digital business is focused on creating products customers love that truly make their lives easier.”

Albertsons reported a 276 percent increase in digital sales in its first fiscal quarter, a press release noted, and continues to add Drive Up & Go stores throughout the country.

The lockers, which are delivered by Bell and Howell, are modular, temperature-controlled, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

“We are excited to partner with Albertsons to help them deliver a convenient and contactless pickup experience for their customers,” said Larry Blue, CEO of Bell and Howell. “With our temperature-controlled grocery lockers, Albertsons customers can quickly and conveniently pick up their entire order, from heated to frozen food items, whenever and wherever they want.”

The lockers will first be available in select Jewel-Osco locations in Chicago and are expected to be installed at select Safeway locations in the Bay Area later in the year.

Will lockers be the next go-to solution for e-commerce as retailers look to secure the sector? AndNowUKnow will continue to report.

Albertsons