Tech Advancements to Drive Grocery Shopping Patterns
Research from 84.51° found that shoppers increasingly expect innovations like smart carts and AI integrations to streamline the shopping experience.
Research from Kroger’s data analytics subsidiary, 84.51°, explores the latest in consumer behavior and preferences and how that predicts the future of grocery shopping, which will be primarily driven by technological advancements, according to the company.
Key findings from 84.51°’s October Consumer Digest analyzes how shoppers think the grocery landscape will evolve over the next 2-3 years:
- Technology-Driven Experiences: Shoppers anticipate a significant shift toward digital channels, with 48% currently using and planning to continue using digital coupon apps, and 43% using cashback apps. Many expect innovations such as smart carts for faster checkouts and AI integration for personalized suggestions to streamline the shopping experience.
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- Cost-Conscious Behavior: Rising prices are prompting consumers to adopt more cost-effective shopping habits. Many foresee an increased reliance on deals, using more coupons and shifting toward bulk purchasing and generic brands. Additionally, many predict a rise in online ordering and grocery delivery services, which may lead to a decline in traditional in-store shopping.
- Improving Grocery Planning: Younger shoppers find grocery planning more challenging compared to older generations. Enhancements such as better online shopping list functionality, a broader array of digital coupons and recipe suggestions linked to shopping lists could ease the process for all age groups. 46% of shoppers aged 55-74 reported that grocery shopping planning was easier than younger demographics.
- Meal Prepping and Making Cooking Easier: Consumers across all age groups agree on the need for more affordable meal kits and better deals on prepared foods. Increased variety in ready-made meals that cater to diverse dietary preferences can also support easier meal preparation, as can recipe ideas or cards placed in-store and personalized recipes online based on a customers’ purchases and preferences.
- Next-Gen Groceries: Shoppers want new and innovative products for “tomorrow,” with frozen food, household cleaning and shelf-stable items topping the list. Consumers are also seeking products with nutritional benefits, with 51% prioritizing high protein, 43% looking for clean ingredients and 40% interested in functional benefits.
- Health-Conscious Choices: Shoppers are actively seeking more organic, vegan and nutritious products, aligning with a trend toward health-oriented shopping. 51% of shoppers are seeking new and innovative products with high protein, 43% with clean ingredients and 40% with functional benefits.
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Overall, customers foresee a more personalized, efficient and tech-driven approach to grocery shopping while also being mindful of their budgets.