Membership warehouse chain BJ’s Wholesale Club is turning to automation to improve the profitability of its curbside pickup services. Through the implementation of fully autonomous AI-powered robots in all of its 230 locations across 20 states, BJ’s Wholesale Club aims to streamline various tasks and enhance operational efficiency.
The integration of automation technologies is expected to bring several benefits to the retailer. These include improved inventory tracking, enhanced pricing precision, quicker restocking, and increased efficiency and accuracy in buy online, pick up in club, and curbside orders. By automating these processes, BJ’s Wholesale Club can reduce labor costs and improve overall profit margins.
The demand for online grocery shopping has been steadily rising, requiring retailers to find innovative ways to cater to this evolving consumer behavior. According to a PYMNTS Intelligence report, 45% of grocery shoppers have engaged digitally in their recent purchases, utilizing both connected devices and traditional channels. Curbside pickup has emerged as the most popular eGrocery channel in the United States, with non-same-day grocery delivery ranking second.
BJ’s Wholesale Club has experienced significant digital sales growth, with a 16% year-over-year increase in digital comparable sales in the recent quarter. Chief Financial Officer Laura Felice highlighted that 90% of their digitally enabled sales are fulfilled through their clubs, primarily through services like buy online, pick up in club, and same-day delivery. This focus on digital convenience has been a key driver in the retailer’s success.
As digital engagement with grocery continues to rise, retailers must adapt to meet consumer demands. The integration of automation technologies, such as robots, not only enhances operational efficiency but also allows retailers to offer a better digital experience. With research showing that one in three shoppers are likely to increase their online grocery purchases in the next year, retailers like BJ’s Wholesale Club are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
FAQ:
Q: What benefits does BJ’s Wholesale Club expect from the automation of its operations?
A: BJ’s Wholesale Club expects improved inventory tracking, enhanced pricing precision, quicker restocking, and increased efficiency and accuracy in buy online, pick up in club, and curbside orders.
Q: What is the most popular eGrocery channel in the United States?
A: Curbside pickup is the most popular eGrocery channel in the United States.
Q: What percentage of BJ’s Wholesale Club’s digitally enabled sales are fulfilled by their clubs?
A: Approximately 90% of BJ’s Wholesale Club’s digitally enabled sales are fulfilled by their clubs.