Walmart is planning to test doorstep delivery of groceries in temperature-controlled containers as it looks to better meet consumers’ increased demand for online grocery shopping.
The company has partnered with D.C. Metro area-based startup HomeValet to provide the delivery service. According to Walmart, the delivery box will have three temperature-controlled zones for frozen, refrigerated and pantry items. Customers will be able to place orders directly from their local Walmart store, which would then be delivered in the smart coolers placed outside their home.
“Consumers want convenience and peace of mind now more than ever. HomeValet’s safe, temperature-controlled Smart Box and app, can enable 24/7 secure deliveries whether customers are occupied at home or receiving remotely,” said John Simms, HomeValet co-founder and CEO. “We’re excited for Walmart customers to be some of the first to enjoy contactless, unattended home delivery.”
The company’s decision to test out doorstep delivery comes as one of its many recent efforts to improve its online shopping experience.
In November last year, the company partnered up with autonomous car company Cruise to test grocery delivery in Scottsdale, Arizona, starting early this year. A month later, it announced its partnership with FedEx, allowing customers to have return packages picked up by FedEx from their homes without any additional fee.
The retail giant is also testing drone delivery of select grocery and essential household items in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The pilot is being conducted in partnership with Israeli startup Flytrex, which received FAA approval last year to test food deliveries in North Carolina during the daytime.