Kroger Launches Web Marketplace to Compete With Amazon, Walmart

A grocery bag from Kroger filled with fruit and vegetables
Morning Brew

Just months after Walmart announced its Amazon Prime competitor, Walmart+, another retail giant is throwing its hat in the e-commerce ring. Kroger is launching a web marketplace and partnering with third-party sellers to offer a massively increased selection than what’s usually available in stores.

Kroger Ship Marketplace

Kroger launched Ship, it’s delivery service, in 2018. The platform already provides groceries and household essentials, such as medicine, cleaning supplies, and diapers. This expanded marketplace, powered by Mirakl, will allow Kroger to ship more than 50,000 new items.

“To better serve our customers, we’re continuing to invest in technology that enables us to expand our digital services to deliver anything, anytime, anywhere,” said Jody Kalmbach, the company’s group vice president of product experience, in a press release. 

In the first quarter of 2020, Kroger announced that it saw a 92 percent increase in digital sales. It’s no wonder, then, that the company is looking to expand its digital profile. By building out a more comprehensive online marketplace, the grocery brand is stepping up as a competitor to Amazon Prime, the one-stop-shop for delivery needs. Like Walmart, Kroger has an uphill battle to dethrone Amazon, but the competition should be interesting to follow.

Kroger Ship already has a rewards program and tons of deals and discounts, which make it an attractive online marketplace. As of now, the store hasn’t shared many details about the new venture, but it should launch this Fall. When it does, we’ll circle back with a full review!

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