Video: eGrocery Insights - August 2025

Welcome to an all-new episode of US eGrocery Sales Trends, hosted by Mark Fairhurst, Chief Growth Marketing Officer at Mercatus, and David Bishop, Partner at Brick Meets Click. 

Major Moves in August

This month’s conversation kicks off with a discussion around two major moves that took place in August: 

1. Amazon’s expansion of same-day fresh food delivery
2. Walmart’s announcement that half of its delivery orders now arrive in under 3 hours 

Both developments are reshaping how customers think about speed when it comes to ordering groceries. And both have the potential to reshape the industry, as Amazon works to make ship-to-home feel more like delivery, and Walmart continues to prove that convenience can be monetized. 

Cost structure and customer lock-in

While the headlines highlight faster fulfillment, the real battleground isn’t speed—it’s cost structure and customer lock-in. 

Trying to outmatch Amazon and Walmart on delivery times risks draining resources without creating lasting loyalty. 

• Instead of going down this path, David urges regional grocers to focus on what makes them different. 
• Lean harder into customer data, loyalty programs, and personalization to strengthen relationships. Highlight prepared meals and health-and-wellness choices. 

These are areas where regional grocers can stand apart from national players. By doing so, they can create lasting value that speed alone can’t deliver. 

Walmart's express Pickup pilot

The episode closes with a look at Walmart’s express pickup pilot, an initiative that suggests speed will remain central to the industry conversation. 

Heads up for regional grocers

The takeaway is clear: protect margins and build loyalty by leaning into differentiation rather than entering a margin-draining race to the bottom. 

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Watch the full episode to learn:

• How Amazon and Walmart’s strategies are changing customer expectations
• Why chasing speed is a losing game for regional grocers
• The practical steps grocers can take now to deepen loyalty and stand out in their markets

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