📦 New Drop-off Feature
Instacart has announced several updates to improve the delivery process for its workers. A key feature is the ability to leave orders at customers’ doorsteps if they don’t show up to collect them. If customers don’t respond after 10 minutes, workers will be prompted to leave the order and take a photo of its location. This photo, along with a timestamp, will be sent to the customer to confirm the drop-off. Previously, workers had to return uncollected orders to the store.
🔍 Enhanced Scanning Tool
Instacart is also introducing a new in-app scanning feature aimed at reducing mix-ups in multi-order batches. Workers will need to scan specific items in an order before finalizing the delivery. This ensures better accuracy and confirms that the right items are delivered to the correct customer. This tool is part of Instacart’s efforts to streamline the delivery process and reduce errors.
🐾 Pet Alerts
Another new feature addresses one of the top pieces of feedback from workers: pets at delivery addresses. Instacart will now notify workers if there are pets at a customer’s residence and prompt customers to secure their pets before the delivery arrives. This update is expected to improve the safety and comfort of delivery workers, ensuring smoother and safer deliveries.
📈 Competitive Landscape
These updates come as Instacart faces increasing competition from other delivery service providers like DoorDash and Uber. DoorDash recently expanded its alcohol delivery to more grocery partners, and Uber introduced a new feature allowing caregivers to book rides and purchase groceries. Despite the competition, Instacart reported strong first-quarter results in May, showing significant year-over-year growth in total revenue, number of orders, and gross transaction volume. These updates are part of Instacart’s strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the market.
Do you think these new features will improve Instacart’s service?
