Bringoz Industry Weekly 3/16

rocery shoppers were more active online in February than ever before. CVS Health plans to open a dozen or more smaller format CVS Pharmacy locations over the next year. The Home Depot is investing in its flatbed distribution centers, as it expands its fulfillment operations. Read about these stories and more in our weekly industry news roundup.

Grocery shoppers were more active online in February than ever before, according to the latest Brick Meets Click Grocery Shopper Survey sponsored by Mercatus. More than 80 million households placed one or more orders digitally, a record high, as the U.S. online grocery segment grew 31% year over year, reaching $10.3 billion in sales for February. February also marked the seventh consecutive month where monthly sales exceeded $9.5 billion and the ninth consecutive month of positive year-over-year sales growth. Read more.

CVS Health plans to open a dozen or more smaller format CVS Pharmacy locations in select communities nationally over the next year. Each location will average less than 5,000 square feet, and feature a full-service pharmacy with limited over-the-counter products available for purchase. The new pharmacies will be designed to meet each community’s specific pharmacy needs and make it easier for patients to access medications, immunizations and other healthcare services. Read more.

The Home Depot is investing in its flatbed distribution centers (FDCs), as it expands its fulfillment operations. Three FDCs are currently under construction, with more in the pipeline. FDCs help deliver larger orders directly to job sites. In 2020, the company announced plans to build about 150 flatbed distribution centers to offer same and next-day delivery to 90% of U.S. customers. That distribution model helps the company efficiently pick, pack and ship lumber and other building materials. Read more.

While both B2B and B2C commerce involve selling products or services, they cater to different customers, purchasing behaviors, and marketing approaches. Understanding these differences is essential for businesses looking to refine their strategies, optimize operations, and improve customer satisfaction. Here’s a look at the fundamental differences between B2B and B2C commerce and how they shape business operations. Read more.

Logistics costs can make up a significant portion of a B2B company’s expenses, impacting profitability and operational efficiency. Supply chain disruptions and evolving customer expectations make it essential for businesses to find innovative ways to cut costs without compromising service quality. Here’s a look at some strategies B2B companies can use to reduce logistics costs while improving delivery speed and efficiency. Read more.

As the eCommerce landscape evolves, the demand for big and bulky items to be delivered directly to customers’ doorsteps is on the rise. With this growing trend comes the need for innovative technology solutions to help companies deliver large items efficiently and cost effectively. Here’s a look at the pivotal role that technology plays in enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and customer experience of big and bulky delivery. Read more.