One of the biggest economic concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic is the disruption to supply chains. Fears are that, despite the increased demand for essential goods, the reduction of labor and the restriction of non-essential services across all levels of global industry will bring the economy to a grinding halt.
While such government and business mandates are essential for stopping the spread of this highly contagious disease, there is the reality that if we must support food security, and health and safety or risk an additional unprecedented loss of life.
The online food retail industry provides a useful business model for understanding timely operational responses to the sudden shift in customer demand for essential goods. This is a sector that has had to pivot sharply for emergency response, ensuring people can safely purchase food and supplies with limited human contact or even contact-free delivery.
If you’re thinking of ways to position your business to both combat the current global health crisis and create needed new economic opportunities, consider e-commerce grocery delivery. Here’s how:
Develop an E-Commerce Platform
For web developers and grocery store owners, now’s the time to partner up! Web developers have the needed expertise to assist grocery stores transition from relying on brick-and-mortar operations, allowing them to adapt to current needs, and maintain their businesses in new circumstances – and beyond.
Quickly developing an online grocery shopping platform for grocery stores enables them to meet the rise in customer demands, deliver products and services, and prepare for a future where more and more business will be conducted virtually.
Expand to offer new services
With the recent rise in e-commerce in Saudi Arabia, there’s an equal need to boost delivery services. As the pandemic continues, online retailer BinDawood, with two grocery and household supplies e-commerce platforms, has not only kept all its 72 stores open but has also hired additional packers and drivers to meet delivery demands.
If you run a small delivery company, or a large supplier or distributor, or even a taxi service, now’s the time to get creative and expand and diversify your product and service offerings to include food transport solutions.
Become Tech-Enabled
Automation and digitization are in demand across industries, and especially in those businesses that support the delivery of goods and services. Not only does the digitization of business maintain and increase supply chain channels, but it also provides the needed means for taking hygiene precautions at all exchange points.
Investors, such as Saudi Technology Ventures and Middle East Venture Partners, are investing in tech-enabled businesses. Nana grocery shopping and delivery service app has just received funding to expand its e-commerce platform and reach everyone in need during the COVID-19 crisis.
Increase Marketing Focus
E-marketing is a great opportunity to spread positive messages during this tough time, while also boosting your business. Motivating customers during a time of crisis helps you stay ahead of your competition and boost your reputation as a company that looks after the wellbeing of its customers.
If you’re running an e-commerce platform for a grocery business, including sales, special offers, incentives, and discounts. Another great idea is to include an electronic tip option so that customers can safely reward delivery workers.
For innovative tips on expanding or moving into the supply chain industry in a global economy, contact SBT here.
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