Members of Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) now are able to take advantage of the services of Freshop Inc., a comprehensive grocery e-commerce solution, that recently was chosen as the wholesaler’s technology solution and provider. With more than 600 member-owners and 3,400 retail outlets in 31 states, AWG is the second largest retailer-owned grocery cooperative in the U.S.
“We know consumers are looking for a different way to shop for groceries,” said Kate Favrow, AWG’s corporate marketing manager. “AWG’s partnership with Freshop allows our retailers to meet that consumer desire while staying true to their established brand.”
A significant number of AWG retail outlets have expressed interest in Freshop’s platform. Freshop works with wholesalers and independent grocers to develop customized online shopping solutions. By catering to each store’s unique customer base, Freshop empowers independent grocers, enabling them to compete in the online shopping space where profitability, increased share of cart and higher sales are possible.
“We know the online shopping environment is complex,” Favrow added. “With their focus on store level and existing digital platform integration, we’re confident Freshop can help our retailers evolve quickly and in a way that meets the consumers’ needs.”
With Freshop’s platform powering the store experience, shoppers experience the same grocery shopping experience through the store’s website as they do when they visit the brick-and-mortar stores. Shoppers are able to use their grocery store’s website to browse products, recipes and healthy living tips, and they also can access the clickable, weekly circular to build grocery lists. Depending on the shopping options chosen by each store, customers can then choose their personal shopping experience, using their grocery list to shop in-store or a personal shopper can put together their order for pick-up or delivery.
“Independent grocers have needs that are different from other retailers in the market,” said Brian Moyer, CEO of Freshop. “They want to stand out in a crowded marketplace with unique solutions and neighborhood-tailored grocery offerings. At Freshop, we help these retailers reach a wider audience with updated websites and online grocery options. Each website is tailored to the unique store it serves, ensuring that branding and shopping options remain the same as the brick-and-mortar store experience.”
