🎄 Holiday convenience with $0 delivery
Instacart is spreading holiday cheer with a new perk for Instacart+ members called "Express Lane." Launched on November 18, it offers $0 delivery on orders as low as $10, the lowest cart minimum for free delivery in the industry. This feature aims to help shoppers with last-minute needs, from missing ingredients to holiday decorations. According to Instacart, small-basket orders of $10 to $20 triple during Thanksgiving and Christmas compared to the yearly average. This limited-time benefit is a cost-saving convenience during a time of rising grocery prices.
📈 Strong third-quarter results drive new offerings
Instacart's announcement follows a strong Q3 earnings call on November 12. CEO Fidji Simo credited the company's growth to expanding retailer integrations and leveraging advanced technology. Services like EBT SNAP, alcohol delivery, and loyalty program tie-ins have boosted sales for partners, growing nearly twice as fast as those without new launches. "Integration depth is key to growth," Simo highlighted, pointing to its positive impact on gross transaction value (GTV).
📉 Grocery prices decline for the first time since 2020
In related news, October saw the first annual drop in online grocery prices since the COVID-19 pandemic. Adobe's data reported a 0.1% decrease compared to October 2023, a welcome relief for consumers. This dip aligns with Instacart's timing to launch a savings-driven feature. As online grocery becomes more competitive, Instacart is positioning itself as a top choice for budget-conscious holiday shoppers.
🎁 Instacart+ as the ultimate holiday helper
The "Express Lane" launch underscores Instacart's strategy to attract and retain Instacart+ members. Combining the lowest free-delivery minimum with a focus on convenience, the company aims to be the go-to solution for one-off holiday needs. With the service available on its app and website, customers can now enjoy easier shopping and a stress-free holiday experience. "Express Lane is the ultimate holiday sidekick," the company stated in its press release, reaffirming its commitment to affordability and innovation.
Will Instacart's $10 minimum change holiday shopping?
