Grocery chain adds location tech to curbside app

Grocery chain adds location tech to curbside app

SpartanNash added GPS technology to its online ordering platform. Courtesy SpartanNash

A local grocery chain has added GPS location technology to its online grocery ordering platform.

Byron Center-based SpartanNash said last week that it added the capability to Fast Lane — the company’s click-and-collect program — to create a “seamless” online grocery shopping and curbside pickup experience.

The new Fast Lane GPS location technology is available at Family Fare, Forest Hills Foods, VG’s and Dan’s Supermarket and allows Fast Lane shoppers to accurately calculate a customer’s arrival time for curbside pickup orders.

“This new technology will completely change our customers’ experience with Fast Lane,” said Brian Holt, vice president of marketing.

Once a customer has placed their Fast Lane curbside pickup order, they will be alerted when their order is ready. Customers can then share their location through the Family Fare, Forest Hills Foods, VG’s and Dan’s Supermarket mobile apps or a web browser — letting their Fast Lane shopper know they are on their way to the store, so their order can be prepared and delivered to their vehicle the moment they pull into the pickup area.

“Fast Lane and our new GPS technology are part of SpartanNash’s commitment to providing our store guests with what they want, when they want it — fast and friendly,” said Tom Swanson, senior vice president and general manager, corporate retail.

Since launching Fast Lane in July 2017, SpartanNash has introduced several enhancements, including at-home delivery, the ability to clip digital coupons instantly and orders ready in as a few as two hours.

Currently, 68 SpartanNash stores in Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin offer Fast Lane for Family Fare, D&W Fresh Market, Family Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Dan’s Supermarket, Forest Hills Foods and Ada Fresh Market store customers.