Waitrose has launched a trial delivery service that includes putting the groceries away for customers while they are out.
It will test demand for the service, called “While You’re Away”, with 100 customers in south London.
The service uses smart lock technology from Yale which allows customers to give Waitrose drivers temporary access to their home.
The driver will put refrigerated and frozen goods away and leave other groceries on the kitchen counter, or as instructed by the customer.
The delivery is captured on a chest-cam worn by the driver, with the video available for request for the customer the next working day.
There is a minimum order of £25. Because of the small number of customers involved in the trail, there is a minimum number of six orders. This will be reviewed after the trial.
If the trial is successful, Waitrose expects to be able to make the service available to more than 1,000 customers in spring 2019.
“The concept of ‘in-home delivery’ has started to prove popular in other countries so we are keen to establish if there is an appetite for it in the UK,” said head of business development Archie Mason.
Nigel Fisher, Managing Director for Yale UK, said: “Working with Waitrose & Partners to develop the UK’s first in-home delivery service is an exciting premise for Yale, as we look to understand how smart products can enhance daily lives, as well as protecting your home.”
