Save Time and Money on Groceries: Amazon's Affordable Delivery Option
Amazon announced a new grocery delivery subscription service in the United States. This programme caters to both Prime members and recipients of government food assistance benefits.
Unlimited Deliveries for Prime Members
Prime members can enjoy unlimited grocery deliveries for a monthly fee of $9.99. This benefit applies to orders exceeding $35 from a wide selection of stores, including:
- Whole Foods Market
- Amazon Fresh
- Various local grocery stores
- Specialty retailers (Save Mart, Bartell Drugs, Rite Aid, Pet Food Express)
The service is available in over 3,500 cities and towns across the US.
Discounted Delivery for EBT Users
In an effort to expand accessibility, Amazon offers a reduced subscription fee of $4.99 per month for low-income individuals who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP). Importantly, EBT users do not require a Prime membership to participate.
Competitive Pricing and Additional Benefits
Amazon's subscription plan positions itself competitively in the grocery delivery market. Here's a breakdown of the pricing compared to its rivals:
- Amazon: $9.99/month (Prime) or $4.99/month (EBT)
- Walmart Plus: $12.95/month or $98/year
- Target: Free delivery with a $99 annual membership
Beyond competitive pricing, Amazon's offering boasts additional perks:
- Free one-hour delivery windows
- Unlimited 30-minute pickups on orders of any size
Building on Successful Trials
This nationwide launch follows successful trials conducted last year in Denver, Colorado, Sacramento, California, and Columbus, Ohio. The positive results from these test markets likely fueled Amazon's decision to expand the programme across the country.
Expanding the Fresh Food Business
By introducing this subscription service, Amazon demonstrates its commitment to expanding its fresh-food delivery business. This segment of the online retail market is already populated by established players like Walmart and Target, both of which have established membership programs. Amazon's offering, with its competitive pricing and additional perks, positions itself as a strong contender in the race for fresh grocery delivery dominance.
