Shoppers in North Bend now have a new way to pick up their groceries. On Monday, Sept. 19, North Bend’s QFC began operating its online ordering and pickup service.
Zach Stratton, spokesperson for QFC, said the company is using a program called ClickList to take online orders. QFC’s parent company Kroger, started implementing this program in stores and North Bend was selected as the first location for the online ordering program.
“A number of factors go into the locations,” Stratton said. “North Bend worked out best in terms of parking lot space, the staff and how well the store is run. You need to have room in the parking lot to have dedicated ClickList spots and a holding area within the store.”
The North Bend QFC currently prepares orders to be picked up the next day at a specific time selected on the order. The morning after an order is placed, QFC staffers pick out all of the items in the list and store the order in an area dedicated to online orders until they are picked up.
“You place your order then pick your hour time slot you plan to be there the next day,” Stratton said. “There are clearly marked spots for ClickList, an associate meets you and asks your name and information and they bring it out to you. You swipe your card and you’re on your way.”
The program was tested at Kroger stores in Cincinnati with great reception from shoppers. Stratton also said that the program has also created 14 new jobs at the store for people hired specifically to support the online ordering program. The initial investment at the store was about $280,000.
“It’s employees and extra space, the equipment they need, all of that kind of brand new tech and brand new spaces. All rolled up into that number,” Stratton said. “Our customers have loved it so far. Great for families of children, or families of elderly or disabled. It will be even better in the winter.”
The program is available now and orders can be placed at www.qfc.com/onlineshopping.