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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Kroger Co. is bringing its grocery delivery service to Birmingham, Ala., another market where it operates no physical stores.
The retailer on Friday announced the opening of a new “spoke” delivery facility that serves as an extension of its regional fulfillment center in Atlanta, bringing its Kroger Delivery service to customers in the greater Birmingham area.
“Kroger Delivery starts by bringing the shopping experience to wherever our customers are, whether they are using the Kroger app or browsing our weekly ad at Kroger.com,” Kroger vice president and head of e-commerce Bill Bennett said. “Here, customers can access our seamless experience that promises an extensive assortment, thousands of digital coupons, and an entirely personalized shopping trip. Through this zero-compromise service, customers can get fresh, affordable groceries brought to their door through a best-in-class white glove delivery experience, enabled by our refrigerated trucks, and amazing trained drivers. This cutting-edge technology sets a new unmatched standard for grocery delivery.”
Local shoppers also have access to the Boost by Kroger annual membership program, which offers benefits like unlimited free delivery for orders of $35 or more and Fuel Points rewards and costs either $59 or $99 per year. Kroger says the membership program can save customers more than $1,000 per year on fuel and grocery delivery.
The approximately 50,000-square-foot facility will work in conjunction with the retailer’s Atlanta fulfillment center, increasing the network’s reach to customers up to 90 minutes from the hub. The facility is located on West Oxmoor Drive in Birmingham’s Jefferson County and will employ more than 160 associates.
Cornell Wesley, the director of the city’s department of innovation and economic opportunity, said he was happy that Kroger choose Birmingham for this facility, which should expand access to groceries in the market.
“For people who live in food deserts, getting groceries can be a real challenge,” Wesley said. “Eliminating the distance to the grocery store from the doorstep can positively impact our citizens who are most in need of healthy food options.”
The Birmingham Business Alliance also worked with Kroger to support the new facility.
“Kroger’s commitment to being a champion employer for our community has been evident since day one, and we are looking forward to supporting their continued success here,” said Emily Jerkins Hall, the organization’s president and chief operating officer.
