In today’s technology-driven world, the grocery sector is experiencing a significant shift with the emergence of on-demand grocery delivery apps. According to Grand View Research, the market was valued at USD 285.70 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 25.3% from 2022 to 2030. These apps have revolutionized the way people shop for groceries, offering convenience, efficiency, and a wide range of options. Whether you’re a business owner or a customer, these apps have something to offer..
For businesses, investing in a grocery delivery app can expand their customer base, increase loyalty, and enhance brand visibility. Customers, on the other hand, benefit from the ease of shopping from the comfort of their own homes, saving time and gaining access to a diverse selection of products. In this blog, we will explore the seven best grocery delivery apps in the USA, highlighting their features and benefits. So, whether you’re a business owner looking to optimize your operations or a customer seeking a convenient shopping experience, join us as we take a deep dive into the world of grocery delivery apps.
What is a Grocery Delivery App?
A grocery delivery app is a mobile application that brings the convenience of shopping for groceries directly to your fingertips. It functions as a virtual store on your phone, allowing you to browse through a vast selection of grocery items and place an order from your favorite local stores. The app streamlines the entire process, making it quick, effortless, and hassle-free.
With a grocery delivery app, users can say goodbye to the tedious task of physically visiting multiple stores and waiting in long queues. Instead, users can explore a wide range of products, from fresh produce to pantry staples, and add them to your online cart with just a few taps. These apps provide a seamless and user-friendly interface, ensuring that even the most novice users can navigate and complete their shopping with ease.
On-Demand Grocery Business Models
The way we buy groceries has changed a lot thanks to on-demand services. Different business models have come up to make grocery shopping easier and more flexible for people who like using technology. These models offer a range of options and have made grocery shopping more convenient for tech-savvy consumers. Let’s explore some popular on-demand grocery business models:
1. Aggregator Model
The aggregator model brings together multiple local grocery stores and retailers under one platform, offering consumers a diverse range of products to choose from. Aggregator apps act as a marketplace, connecting users with nearby stores and enabling them to browse through various options. These apps provide a seamless shopping experience, allowing users to add items from different stores to their cart and completing the purchase in a single transaction. The aggregator model offers convenience and variety by consolidating multiple stores’ inventories in one place.
2. Single Store Model
As the name suggests, the single store model revolves around a specific grocery retailer or chain. These retailers develop their dedicated mobile apps or online platforms, offering customers the convenience of shopping from a single store. By leveraging their own inventory and logistics, single store models focus on delivering a consistent brand experience and maintaining control over the entire customer journey. This model allows retailers to showcase their unique offerings, promotions, and loyalty programs, fostering customer loyalty and repeat business.
3. Pick-Up-In-Store Model
The pick-up-in-store model combines the digital convenience of online ordering with the option for customers to collect their groceries from a designated store location. Customers can place their orders through the app or website, select a preferred store, and schedule a pickup time. This model provides flexibility and convenience for customers who may prefer to avoid delivery fees or have a specific time window for pickup. It also benefits retailers by driving foot traffic to their physical stores, potentially leading to additional in-store purchases.
4. Hybrid Model
The hybrid model combines elements of multiple business models to provide a comprehensive and versatile grocery shopping experience. This model may incorporate features such as aggregation of multiple stores, the option for customers to choose between delivery or pick-up, and even integration with a retailer’s existing loyalty program. The hybrid model offers a flexible approach, catering to different customer preferences and optimizing the convenience factor. It provides users with a range of choices while allowing retailers to leverage their existing infrastructure and expand their customer base.
Each of these on-demand grocery business models has its own advantages and appeals to different segments of the market. Aggregator models excel in providing a wide selection of products, single store models offer brand loyalty and consistency, pick-up-in-store models emphasize convenience and flexibility, while hybrid models combine the best aspects of various approaches.
7 Best Grocery Delivery Apps in the USA
Here is a list of top 7 grocery delivery apps in the USA which are well-known for providing the best online grocery delivery service:
1. Walmart Grocery
Walmart Grocery has emerged as a leading player in the grocery delivery industry in the United States. As a digital extension of the renowned physical Walmart store, this app has revolutionized the way people shop for their everyday needs. With its reliable service and commitment to customer satisfaction, it has become a popular choice for millions of users across the country.
With nearly 50 million downloads from the Google Play Store and over 10 million downloads from iPhone users, Walmart Grocery has clearly made its mark in the app market. In fact, it has secured its place as the fourth largest shopping app in the US, surpassing big names like Amazon, Shein, and Shop. What sets Walmart Grocery apart is its comprehensive selection of products. Users can conveniently order groceries, household essentials, and a wide range of products from their favorite and popular brands, all from the comfort of their own homes. Whether you need fresh produce, pantry staples, or even electronics, Walmart Grocery has got you covered.
Furthermore, Walmart Grocery prioritizes the safety and security of its customers. With secure payment options and a user-friendly interface, it provides a seamless and protected shopping experience.
More About the Company:
- Founded: July 2, 1692
- Headquarters: Bentonville, Arkansas, US
- Revenue (FY 2023): US$ 611.3 billion
- User Base: 120+ million
- Available on: iOS & Android
2. Instacart
Instacart is also one of the grocery delivery apps operating in the USA. Operating in 85% of the United States and 66% of Canada, this app has established partnerships with major supermarket chains like Whole Foods and Safeway, allowing users to access over 300,000 products with ease. With over 250,000 retailers on board and six successful investment rounds, Instacart has cemented its position as a leading player in the grocery delivery market. One of the standout features of Instacart is its attractive sign-up offer. New users are entitled to their first delivery for free, making it a compelling reason to give the app a try.
Furthermore, the app boasts collaborations with almost every major supermarket chain in the United States, giving customers the freedom to shop for groceries from various locations simultaneously. This enables users to find the best deals on a wide range of items, all from the convenience of their mobile devices. Instacart’s reach is vast, serving as a formidable competitor to Kroger in the USA. With partnerships with over 600 supermarkets and retailers, the app ensures a seamless and efficient shopping experience for its user base. From groceries and fresh food to chilled beverages and snacks, Instacart caters to a diverse range of needs, delivering products right to customers’ doorsteps in as fast as one hour.
As of 2021, Instacart has generated an impressive $1.8 billion in revenue and boasts a user base of over 9.6 million. Its popularity and success can be attributed to its commitment to providing reliable, efficient, and convenient grocery delivery services to customers across North America.
More About the Company:
- Founded: 2012
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, US
- Revenue (2021): US$ 1.8 billion
- User Base: 10+ million
- Available on: iOS & Android
3. Kroger
As one of the largest grocery chains in the country, Kroger offers an exceptional shopping experience through its innovative app. With a focus on saving money, the app provides exclusive deals and discounts tailored to each customer’s individual needs and preferences. Kroger’s shopping app allows users to conveniently shop online or in-store while also enabling them to create personalized shopping lists. This feature ensures that you never miss out on any essential items and helps streamline your shopping experience. Additionally, the app’s Smart Suggest feature recommends specific products to help you save money while you shop.
One of the key strengths of the Kroger app is its extensive product range. From fresh vegetables, pantry staples, and spices to household goods, healthcare products, baby care items, and more, Kroger delivers a wide array of products right to your doorstep. Whether you need bakery items, pet care products, or personal care items, Kroger has got you covered. The app offers flexible options for users, allowing them to choose between online or offline shopping and opt for either pickup or doorstep delivery. This versatility has made Kroger a top choice among iOS and Android users alike.
With its impressive ratings and reviews, Kroger has earned the trust of millions of users. With a 4.8/5 star rating from over 1 million iPhone users and a 4.5/5 star rating from nearly 10 million users on the Google Play Store, it is clear that customers appreciate the app’s functionality and reliability.
More About the Company:
- Founded: 1883
- Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio, US
- Revenue (2022): US$ 137.8 billion
- User Base: 11+ million
- Available on: iOS & Android
4. DoorDash
Based in San Francisco, California, and with a strong presence in cities like New York City, DoorDash has become one of the most popular choices for users across the country. In fact, it holds the distinction of being the most downloaded mobile app for online grocery ordering and delivery in the USA, with nearly 39 million downloads.
DoorDash offers a convenient solution for users looking to order food and groceries. With a vast network of thousands of local supermarkets and restaurants, it provides a wide range of options for customers to choose from. Whether you’re craving a delicious meal from a nearby restaurant or need to stock up on groceries, DoorDash has you covered.
What sets DoorDash apart is its user-friendly features. The app makes it easy for users to search for restaurants or supermarkets, streamlining the ordering process. With a few taps, you can find your favorite local spots or discover new options that suit your preferences. Additionally, DoorDash offers a “Takeaway” or pickup feature, allowing users to conveniently order from the comfort of their homes and collect their items in minutes.
With its impressive number of downloads and strong competition in the industry, DoorDash has proven itself as a reliable and trusted platform for online food and grocery delivery. Its commitment to user satisfaction and user-friendly features have contributed to its success.
More About the Company:
- Founded: January 2013
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, US
- Revenue (2022): US$ 6.5 billion
- User Base: 20+ million
- Available on: iOS & Android
5. Amazon Prime Now
As Amazon’s most popular grocery delivery service, it offers convenience, a wide range of products, and exclusive discounts for customers. With over 40 major locations covered, Amazon Prime Now allows users to purchase almost anything on their shopping list, from food and pantry essentials to cleaning supplies and clothing. This comprehensive selection makes it a one-stop solution for all your household needs.
By partnering with some of the most popular supermarkets in the country, Amazon Prime Now ensures that customers have access to exclusive discounts and promotions, making their grocery shopping experience even more cost-effective.
To access Amazon Prime Now, users need to have an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $100 per year. With this membership, users can enjoy the convenience of two-hour free delivery, with the option of one-hour delivery for an additional $10 fee.
Amazon Prime Now is available as a free-to-download grocery delivery app, making it accessible to a wide range of users. With millions of downloads and active users, it has solidified its position as one of the leading on-demand delivery apps for both Android and iOS users.
The app’s success can be attributed to its simple user interface and easy-to-access features. Users can easily search for local supermarkets and retailers, enjoy a hassle-free checkout process, and take advantage of exclusive deals and promos.
More About the Company:
- Service Started: 2014
- Headquarters: Seattle, Washington & Arlington, Virginia, US
- Revenue (2021): US$ 31.77 billion
- User Base: 163+ million
- Available on: iOS, Android & Windows
6. FreshDirect
FreshDirect is a well-known and highly regarded best app for grocery delivery that caters to East Coast consumers in various cities across the northwest and northeastern United States. It stands out for its commitment to delivering the freshest products by working directly with local farmers, dairies, and fisheries.
With FreshDirect’s grocery shopping and delivery app, users have access to a wide variety of items that vary based on the season. The app offers the convenience of ordering in advance or as late as 11 pm, accommodating users’ scheduling restrictions. If you spend $30 or more, you can expect your items to be delivered within one day, ensuring quick and efficient service.
FreshDirect takes pride in sourcing the best fresh produce, meats, and cheeses available. It is worth noting that FreshDirect has gained significant traction in the online grocery delivery market. According to Statista, approximately 9% of online grocery delivery users in the United States choose FreshDirect, indicating its popularity among those who are familiar with the brand
More About the Company:
- Founded: 1999
- Headquarters: –
- Revenue (2019): US$ 600 million
- User Base: –
- Available on: iOS & Android
7. Hungryroot
Hungryroot is a unique platform that offers both meal subscriptions and best grocery delivery service. Established in 2015 and headquartered in New York, it has gained popularity as a leading grocery delivery app on the west coast of the US. What sets Hungryroot apart is its emphasis on providing nutritious meals that are made from whole, high-quality ingredients. The platform follows a strict three-point criteria: the food must be nutritious, simple and quick to prepare, and, most importantly, taste delicious. This ensures that customers receive meals that not only satisfy their taste buds but also meet their health and wellness goals.
While Hungryroot primarily focuses on providing meal subscriptions, it also allows customers to mix and match products to create their own nutritious meals. This flexibility gives users the freedom to customize their orders according to their preferences and dietary requirements. As for the pricing, Hungryroot charges a minimum delivery price of $59.94, which includes three two-serving meals. The plans offered vary in size and can be tailored to accommodate the number of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, and sweets desired throughout the week.
While Hungryroot falls into the category of a meal delivery service, it also offers a grocery delivery aspect, allowing customers to receive essentials alongside their meals. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are prone to impulsive purchases when shopping in physical stores.
More About the Company:
- Founded: 2015
- Headquarters: New York, US
- Revenue (2022): US$ 237 million
- User Base: 1+ million per month(average)
- Available on: iOS (Android users can visit the website)
Benefits of Investing in an Grocery Delivery App
Investing in a grocery delivery app can offer several benefits to businesses, helping them thrive in the competitive market:
- Increased revenue potential: By offering a convenient delivery service, businesses can attract more customers and generate additional sales, leading to increased revenue streams.
- Expanded customer base: A grocery delivery app allows businesses to reach a wider audience, including busy professionals, elderly individuals, and those with limited mobility, who may prefer the convenience of having groceries delivered.
- Improved customer loyalty: Providing a seamless and reliable delivery experience can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, encouraging repeat purchases and fostering long-term relationships with customers.
- Enhanced brand reputation: Offering a grocery delivery service reflects a commitment to customer convenience and staying ahead of market trends, enhancing the brand’s reputation and perception as an innovative and customer-centric business.
- Competitive advantage: With the growing popularity of online shopping, investing in a grocery delivery app can give businesses a competitive edge by meeting the evolving demands and preferences of customers.
- Operational efficiency: Implementing a well-designed delivery app streamlines order management, inventory control, and logistics, leading to improved operational efficiency and cost savings.
- Data-driven insights: A grocery delivery app provides businesses with valuable data on customer behavior, preferences, and purchase patterns, enabling them to make informed business decisions and tailor their offerings to meet customer needs.
- Adaptability to changing market dynamics: Investing in a grocery delivery app enables businesses to adapt to changing consumer behavior and market trends, ensuring their relevance and sustainability in the long run.
Cost of Developing a Grocery Delivery App
The cost of developing a grocery delivery app can vary depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations that influence the overall cost:
- Design: Customized and visually appealing designs may increase the development cost compared to using pre-built templates.
- Features and Functionalities: The complexity and number of features, such as user registration, product catalog, payment integration, order tracking, and push notifications, impact the overall cost.
- Technology Stack: The choice of technology, frameworks, and programming languages can affect the development cost. Some technologies may require more time and resources, thus increasing the expenses.
- Third-Party Integrations: Integrating with external services like payment gateways, location services, or analytics tools may add to the cost, as it requires additional development efforts.
- Team Expertise: The experience and expertise of the development team contribute to the overall cost. Highly skilled professionals typically charge higher rates for their services.
Developing an on-demand grocery app can have different costs due to various factors. It’s difficult to give an exact price without knowing the project details, but we can provide a general price range. On average, creating an on-demand grocery app can cost around $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on what features and functions are needed and the overall complexity of the project.
How Scrum Digital Can Help You Develop a Grocery Delivery App?
Scrum Digital is a trusted provider of IT consulting and digital solutions, specializing in improving customer experiences and streamlining operations for businesses. When it comes to developing a grocery delivery app, Scrum Digital offers valuable expertise and support. Our team understands the unique challenges and trends in the grocery industry and on-demand services. We work closely with our clients, utilizing our digital capabilities and proven processes to create customized solutions that meet their specific needs.
From the initial idea to the final launch, we guide our clients through every step of the app development process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. By partnering with Scrum Digital, you can expect a comprehensive and successful journey in developing your grocery delivery app. Our services cater to the growing demand for online grocery shopping and delivery in the USA, providing you with the best app to order groceries and access to popular and reliable grocery delivery services. Whether you are looking for the cheapest or quickest grocery delivery options, our expertise and dedication will help you achieve your goals in the competitive online grocery market.
Conclusion
The world of grocery delivery apps in the USA offers a variety of options to cater to the needs of consumers. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest prices, quickest delivery, or a wide range of choices, these top grocery delivery apps have got you covered. To stay ahead in the competitive online grocery market, it’s important to consider app development strategies. As the best grocery delivery app development company, ScrumDigital can help you create a user-friendly and advanced grocery app with features like in-app tracking and e-wallet payments. Contact ScrumDigital today to boost your online grocery business and provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the key features to consider while developing a grocery delivery app?
Key features to consider include user registration, product catalog, secure payment integration, real-time order tracking, push notifications, customer reviews, and a user-friendly interface.
Q2. How can a grocery delivery app benefit customers?
Grocery delivery apps provide convenience by saving time and effort, offering a wide range of products, enabling easy price comparison, providing doorstep delivery, and often offering exclusive discounts and promotions.
Q3. Which grocery delivery app offers the cheapest and quickest delivery service?
While prices and delivery times can vary, Instacart, Walmart Grocery, and Amazon Fresh are known for their competitive pricing and efficient delivery services, making them popular choices for customers.
Q4. What are the steps involved in grocery delivery app development?
The development process typically involves market research, planning, UI/UX design, front-end and back-end development, integration of payment gateways and APIs, testing, and deployment to ensure a smooth and functional app.
Q5. How can a grocery delivery app help businesses in the online grocery market?
A grocery delivery app can help businesses expand their reach, attract more customers, increase sales, streamline operations, gather valuable customer data, and stay competitive in the growing online grocery market.
