The surge in demand for online grocery shopping amid the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has prompted a number of hypermarkets and other stores in Doha to increase their delivery capacity and keep the customers happy.
Speaking to 'Gulf Times', LuLu Group International regional manager Shanavas P M said they have been adding more delivery vehicles and crew to further improve the service.
He said ordering online helps lessen the number of people who come to the stores – a precautionary measure to help in preventing the spread of Covid-19.
According to the official, LuLu tries to deliver the items within 48 hours once ordered but so far the slots for this week have already been taken. Delivery charge is QR15 for a QR50 minimum order. In a statement posted on its website, LuLu said customers may find it difficult to get their preferred slot due to the upsurge of orders and advised them “to order for the available slot and rest assured that we will reach out to you as urgently as possible with utmost diligence.”
Carrefour, on its website, also allotted delivery slots within 48 hours after placing an order (minimum of QR150) online, and charges QR10 for the delivery. Many residents, who are either staying or working from home, find online grocery shopping safe, hassle-free and practical during this current situation. “I like it because it spares me from going to stores and avoiding the long queues. I also don’t need to sanitise my wallet, bank cards, mobile phone and keys after shopping,” Filipino expatriate Dennis P told Gulf Times.
“It saves me a lot of time since previously, I need to go to another store to find a missing item or brand from the first store I visited. But now, everything is just a tap or click away,” he said, adding that he and his family feel safe staying at home.
Due to the increasing competition for online shopping, Dennis noted that delivery time for grocery items has significantly improved.
Apart from LuLu and Carrefour, several online shopping mobile apps such as Nedina, Baqaala, Suncart, Snoonu, Widam, Foody, QFresh, Trackoo, Tamween, getit.qa, and The Market, among others, provide customers with easy access and fast delivery of a wide range of food and grocery items.
