CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Curbside pickup became the go-to option during the pandemic, but that could soon change, as retailers make the COVID-related service a thing of the past.
Is curbside pickup going away? Let's connect the dots.
According to a recent report from NewStore Inc., the curbside pickup business is already dipping a bit. Just 25% of retailers still offer the service, down from 34% last year.
Experts also say it doesn't make a lot of sense economically for most retailers. During the pandemic, curbside service was one way to still make money when customers couldn't pack stores. But traditionally, retailers rely on steady foot traffic and customers to pick up an impulse purchase or two.
Curbside pickup also costs stores big bucks in returns. Luxury also plays a large role in the shopping experience. Experts say in-store shopping is more likely to motivate someone to buy a big-ticket item, such as furniture, in-home entertainment systems and large appliances.
Even so, some retailers like Target and Walmart, have doubled down on their curbside efforts. Target recently announced that Starbucks with Drive Up Service launched at 240 stores nationwide.
That feature will allow users to pull up a Starbucks menu from inside the Target app and order from the in-store kiosk while making either a return or delivery. They can let the baristas know when they're on their way, so they can start making the drink, and it will be ready with the curbside order.
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