Micro-fulfillment, which uses robotic and shuttles products like a vending machine, is the way to the future for grocery stores, as customers want their products as quickly and easily as possible, blogs Brittain Ladd, a supply chain thought leader and former Amazon executive.
Going into stores isn't necessary anymore, so customers are looking for onsite fulfillment. The coronavirus pandemic has accelerated this, he contends. A virtual reality experience that allows customers to "shop" grocery stores from their own homes will also be something customers will want, he says.
