Netherlands-based retailer Ahold has confirmed plans to expand Peapod, its online business in the US.
The company, which first announced plans to up investment in its online operations last year, has opened 74 pick-up points in 2013, bringing the total number to 85.
“We are broadening our offering by growing our online businesses to provide alternatives to meet the changing needs of our customers. By accelerating growth of our online business, our customers can literally shop, when, where and how they want,” a spokesperson for the company told just-food.
“Based on early results, we are optimistic that growing demand exists for the pick-up service. Most of the pick-up locations have been open for a short time, we are quickly learning what is effective from a customer demand and financial perspective,” the spokesperson added.
Ahold has said that it intends to grow online sales to EUR1.5bn (US$2bn) by 2016.
As part of this drive, Ahold is investing in opening pick-up points and developing an efficient warehouse network in the US, the spokesperson said. The group also plans to “accelerate” its “already successful” home delivery service in the US.
