Big Y Foods and Instacart have launched in-store kiosks and online ordering powered by FoodStorm – Instacart’s order management technology for prepared foods – at all 79 Big Y locations in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
For the first time, Big Y customers can customize made-to-order meals at in-store kiosks, place made-to-order and catering orders online for prepaid pickup, or order delivery through the Instacart Marketplace.
“As we celebrate 90 years of serving our communities, we’re always looking for ways to make shopping easier and more convenient for our customers while supporting the teams who serve them every day,” said John Fraro, VP of fresh foods at Big Y, one of New England’s largest family-owned supermarket chains. “Prepared foods are an important part of what we offer, and FoodStorm helps us better manage that business behind the scenes while creating a simpler, more seamless ordering experience for our shoppers.”
Sandwiches, pizza and more
The kiosks feature Big Y’s made-to-order kitchen menu, including handcrafted ‘Wich Way sandwiches, wraps and bowls, made-from-scratch pizza, fresh fried seafood meals and sushi. A dedicated online storefront handles on-demand and advance orders for pickup, and customers can plan catering days ahead. For store teams, a centralized digital workflow manages production across all order types, improving accuracy, streamlining kitchen operations and providing better visibility into demand ahead of peak periods.
“Independent grocers like Big Y are competing for the same meal occasions as quick-service restaurants, and they deserve technology that helps them deliver the convenience and value customers expect,” said Rob Hill, general manager of FoodStorm. “FoodStorm gives Big Y’s teams a single system to manage online, kiosk and staff-entered orders, while giving customers more convenient ways to order.”
Founded in 1936 by brothers Paul and Gerald D’Amour, Springfield, Massachusetts-based Big Y employs more than 10,000 people and operates supermarkets, Table & Vine fine wine, beer and liquor stores and Big Y Express fuel and convenience locations.
Instacart partners with more than 2,200 retail banners representing nearly 100,000 stores.