Why Trader Joe’s Won’t Offer Online Shopping
No Online Shopping for You
Don’t expect to be able to order a block of Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar or a bag of Chili & Lime rolled corn chips to your door any time soon. The latest episode of the popular supermarket’s in-house podcast, "Inside Trader Joe’s," explains why the chain doesn’t offer online shopping like competitors Aldi, Publix, and Kroger.
Cost is an Obstacle
One reason is simple: money. Building out a robust delivery operation would involve creating a network of warehouses to store products, as well as a delivery system to get those products to customers’ doors. For a brand that closely watches its bottom line to keep prices low, it’s a non-starter.
The In-Store Experience is Key
But an even more important factor is that for Trader Joe’s, the in-store experience is part of the draw for shoppers in the first place. With a constantly rotating selection of products, Trader Joe’s has trained customers to come into the store expecting to find something new and exciting with each visit.
The Fun of the Treasure Hunt
"This experience would not be the same if you were trying to order something from a website that just showed you the products you already know about," co-host Tara Miller said on the podcast. "When you walk into a Trader Joe’s, you’re confronted with products you may not have ever seen before. That’s part of the Trader Joe’s experience."
The Human Touch
The "treasure hunt" aspect of customers looking for fun new treats, coupled with the supermarket chain’s famously friendly employees, have combined to create a recipe for success that Trader Joe’s isn’t keen on messing with.
A Recipe for Success
"There’s also a bunch of efficiencies that come with being an [brick and mortar] grocery store," co-host Matt Sloan said. "Anything other than that, we’re neither set up to do, we’re not really interested in, we won’t be good at, and it would only just add cost."
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s has found a winning formula by focusing on in-store experiences and keeping its operations simple and efficient. While competitors may try to attract customers with online shopping options, Trader Joe’s is happy to stick to its roots and keep its loyal customers coming back for more.
FAQs
Q: Why doesn’t Trader Joe’s offer online shopping?
A: Trader Joe’s has chosen not to invest in online shopping due to the high costs associated with building and maintaining a robust delivery operation.
Q: What are some of the benefits of shopping in a physical store?
A: Shopping in a physical store allows customers to discover new products and interact with friendly employees, creating a unique and personalized experience.
Q: Will Trader Joe’s ever change its mind about online shopping?
A: It’s unlikely, as the company is committed to its current business model and sees no need to change it.
