The year 2025 marks a turning point for the Polish e-grocery market . Online grocery shopping—ordering products for home delivery or pickup—is no longer a technological novelty. It has become an everyday occurrence and an integral part of the lifestyle of many Poles . For a growing number of people, it's not just convenience but a necessity—because who has time to wait in lines and run from store to store these days?

The COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated this trend, but the development of technology and digital solutions has made e-grocery a permanent fixture in consumer awareness. The value of this segment in Poland already exceeds PLN 4 billion , and the forecasts are even more impressive.

Experts predict that the e-grocery market in Poland will reach PLN 14 billion by 2028 – a threefold increase in just three years. This is a clear sign that Poles have embraced shopping without traffic jams, carrying shopping bags, and stress. E-grocery is becoming one of the pillars of domestic e-commerce .

What is driving this dynamic development? Primarily:

• Growing customer expectations – we want fast delivery, intuitive applications and offers tailored to our needs.
• Convenience and time savings – online shopping eliminates the need to physically visit stores.
• Technological progress – the development of logistics, automation and artificial intelligence are changing the way we shop.
• Experiences from the pandemic – many consumers tried online shopping for the first time and have stuck with it ever since.

Technology shows no signs of slowing down. Logistics are becoming increasingly precise, and the e-grocery market is entering a new phase of development . What awaits us in the coming years?

• Automated warehouses – speeding up order completion and shortening delivery times.
• Artificial intelligence – analyzing our shopping habits and offering personalized recommendations.
• Personalization of the offer – adapting products and promotions to individual customer preferences.
• New delivery models – including same-day deliveries, 24/7 pickup points and autonomous vehicles.

The future of retail will be digital . Will brick-and-mortar stores disappear from the retail landscape? It's hard to say. However, one thing is certain: online grocery shopping will play a key role in the new consumption model .

What is e-grocery and how does it work?

Technology permeates every aspect of life today – including our kitchens. E-grocery , or online grocery shopping, is an increasingly popular way to stock up on supplies without leaving home. But what exactly is this shopping model and what does it look like in practice?

In short, it's a form of online commerce that allows you to order groceries—from fresh vegetables and dairy products to spices and ready-made meals—with delivery to your door or the option of in-person pickup. The shopping process is simple and intuitive : browse the selection, add products to your cart, finalize your order, and… you're done!

The first e-grocery stores appeared in Poland at the beginning of the 21st century, but for a long time they developed slowly – mainly due to logistical challenges. Now, thanks to technological advances and the growing demand for convenience, online grocery shopping is becoming a daily reality for a growing number of consumers.

Definition and basic assumptions of e-grocery

E-grocery is a modern way of shopping for groceries without leaving home. This retail model emerged in the 1990s—primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom—and has since undergone a dramatic transformation.

Modern online grocery stores offer much more than just the ability to order products. Thanks to the dynamic development of technology and growing customer expectations, you can now count on:

• Intuitive and transparent shopping pages that make it easy to quickly find the products you need,
• Personalized recommendations based on your purchase history and preferences,
• Flexible delivery options tailored to your lifestyle and schedule.

For many people, e-grocery isn't just about saving time . It's also a way to better budget, avoid impulse purchases, and adopt a more conscious approach to consumption.

Differences between e-grocery and traditional grocery retail

The biggest difference? You don't have to leave home . Just a few clicks are enough to fill your virtual shopping cart and place your order—no lines, no crowds, and no lugging heavy bags.

What else makes online grocery shopping different?

• A wider range of products – including organic products, niche brands and items that are difficult to find in stationary stores,
• Complete shopping freedom – you can shop at any time, even in the middle of the night,
• Easy access – an ideal solution for busy people, those with limited mobility or those living far from large stores.

For many consumers, e-grocery is not just an alternative, but a better choice – more convenient, faster and more flexible than traditional shopping.

Order fulfillment models: home delivery, click & collect, personal pickup

Online shopping offers not only convenience but also choice. Depending on your needs and lifestyle, you can choose from several order fulfillment options:

• Home delivery – perfect if you value maximum comfort and want your purchases delivered straight to your door,
• Click & Collect – order online and pick up in store. A great solution when you want to save on shipping costs but don't have time for a long shopping spree.
• Personal collection at points – often available 24/7, giving you complete independence and freedom of action.

Each option has its advantages . The choice depends on your schedule, preferences, and lifestyle. Regardless of which you choose, e-grocery gives you control over how, when, and where you shop.

Main operating models in e-grocery

e-grocery market is developing dynamically, responding to growing and diversified consumer needs. Its expansion has led to the development of three main operating models, each with a different approach to sales and customer service:

• Pure e-grocery – a model based solely on online sales, without physical points of sale.
• Retail + e-commerce – a combination of traditional stores with an online channel, giving customers a choice of shopping methods.
• Quick commerce (q-commerce) – a model focused on rapid delivery, often in less than 30 minutes.

Each of these models caters to different lifestyles and consumer expectations. For some, the convenience of shopping from home is key, others value the flexibility of choosing between channels, and still others prioritize immediate order fulfillment.

Pure e-grocery eliminates the need for brick-and-mortar stores by focusing on direct-to-consumer delivery. This allows companies to significantly reduce operating costs and focus on optimizing logistics.

Retail + e-commerce is a hybrid model that allows customers to shop both in-store and online. This flexible approach increases product availability and accommodates diverse shopping preferences.

Quick commerce addresses the needs of consumers who expect instant gratification. With express delivery—often in less than 30 minutes—this model perfectly fits the fast-paced lifestyles of modern users.

Quick commerce: lightning-fast deliveries from urban warehouses

In the e-grocery segment, quick commerce (q-commerce) is currently gaining popularity. Its greatest advantage is express delivery – within 10–30 minutes of placing an order.

A dense network of urban warehouses plays a key role . This ensures order fulfillment times are minimized.

In Poland, examples of effective implementation of this model include:

• Bolt Market – offering quick shopping with delivery within minutes,
• Żabka Jush – an application enabling instant shopping without leaving home.

Q-commerce is not just about convenience – it is often a necessity for busy people who do not have time for traditional shopping.

Importantly, q-commerce offerings are not limited to basic products. They increasingly include:

• fresh vegetables and fruits,
• ready meals,
• premium products,
• articles of daily use.

Thanks to this, q-commerce becomes a real alternative to traditional forms of shopping – both in terms of convenience and the quality of the offer.

Click & Collect as a Hybrid Form of Online Shopping

The click & collect model is a modern solution that combines the benefits of online shopping with the convenience of in-person pickup. Customers place their order online and then collect it at their chosen location – no waiting for a courier and no additional delivery costs.

The benefits of this model are multidimensional:

• For customers – time savings, no delivery fees, greater control over pickup date.
• For sellers – better inventory management, faster order fulfillment, optimization of logistics costs.

For example, retail chains can use their stores as pickup points for online orders. This allows them to reduce last-mile costs and more efficiently utilize existing infrastructure.

Click & collect is becoming a key element of the omnichannel strategy, responding to the needs of modern consumers.

Dark stores and automated warehouses in e-grocery logistics

Modern e-grocery increasingly rely on innovative solutions such as dark stores and automated warehouses . Both models aim to increase efficiency and shorten order fulfillment times.

Dark stores are specialized distribution centers that don't directly serve customers. Their primary function is to quickly fulfill online orders. This allows for shorter delivery times and increased operational efficiency.

Automated warehouses use modern technologies such as:

• warehouse robots,
• artificial intelligence,
• automatic sorting systems,
• advanced inventory management systems.

Automation means not only speed but also greater precision, fewer errors, and better resource utilization. For companies operating in the e-grocery industry, this is a huge competitive advantage – because today, it's not just what you sell that counts, but also how quickly and efficiently you deliver it.

The most important e-grocery platforms in Poland

e-grocery market in Poland is growing at a dizzying pace – literally overnight. Platforms such as e-Carrefour , Frisco.pl , and Amido.pl . Unlike e-commerce giants, which offer a wide range of products – from electronics to clothing – these sites focus solely on groceries.

This specialization allows them to better meet customer needs, offering not only the convenience of shopping from home but also a carefully selected selection . More and more people consider online grocery shopping not just a novelty, but a part of their daily routine. Lack of time for traditional shopping makes e-grocery a natural choice .

Frisco.pl as an example of a specialized e-grocery platform

Frisco.pl is a pioneer in the Polish e-grocery market, operating exclusively online. The platform understands the needs of its users and offers a wide selection of groceries—from fresh fruits and vegetables and dairy products to hard-to-find organic products and exotic spices.

Frisco stands out from the competition thanks to:

• High-quality products – carefully selected assortment.
• On-time deliveries – same-day delivery possible in large cities, e.g. Warsaw.
• Reliability – proven logistics system and customer service.

Focusing solely on the food segment brings results – customers appreciate the quality and return to the platform regularly.

Carrefour online and sales channel integration

Carrefour online is an example of effective integration of sales channels – it connects the physical and digital worlds, offering customers flexible forms of order fulfillment.

Customers can choose from:

• Home delivery – a convenient solution for people who value comfort.
• In-store pickup – for those who prefer to have control over their purchases.

This approach allows Carrefour to:

• Manage your inventory more efficiently.
• Respond faster to changing consumer needs.
• Create a coherent shopping experience – combining the advantages of online and traditional shopping.

The hybrid model is gaining popularity because it responds to diverse customer expectations and increases their loyalty.

Lidl Plus and Biedronka Express BIEK – mobile applications in e-grocery

In the smartphone era, grocery shopping via app is no longer the future—it's an everyday reality . Both Lidl Plus and Biedronka Express BIEK demonstrate how mobile technology can transform the way we shop.

Key features of the application:

• Lidl Plus – access to current promotions, personalized coupons, online shopping support.
• Biedronka Express BIEK – lightning-fast delivery in as little as 15 minutes, ideal for emergency situations.

Benefits for users:

• Save time – shop without leaving home.
• Better expense planning – thanks to personalized offers.
• Convenience and accessibility – applications always at hand.

Mobile technology simplifies life and increases the efficiency of everyday shopping.

DPD Fresh Market and the role of DPD Food in the supply of fresh produce

DPD's Fresh Market is a platform that connects local producers with customers seeking the highest quality fresh produce . A key role in this model is played by DPD Food , a specialized, temperature-controlled delivery service.

The most important features of the model:

• Deliveries directly from manufacturers – no intermediaries.
• Freshness guaranteed – thanks to refrigerated transport conditions.
• Support for local suppliers – development of regional markets.
• Transparency of product origin – consumers know where their food comes from.

Logistics is becoming the foundation of e-grocery success , not just an afterthought. The DPD model demonstrates that a properly designed supply chain can be a key element of competitive advantage.

Technologies supporting the development of e-grocery

The dynamic development of e-grocery would not be possible without the support of modern technologies. Innovative solutions—such as automated distribution centers and intelligent temperature monitoring systems —are driving this sector forward. They not only enable faster order fulfillment but also guarantee quality and safety , which is absolutely crucial in the case of food.

Technology operates on many levels. Warehouse automation , intelligent inventory management , and offer personalization are just some of the areas where digital tools are bringing real change. Companies that effectively implement these solutions gain a competitive advantage, offering customers not only convenience but also a better shopping experience . As a result, technology is no longer an add-on— it is becoming the foundation of development strategies in the online grocery industry .

Offer personalization and recommendation algorithms

Personalization is no longer a luxury, but a standard these days. Customers expect products to be tailored to their needs—without the need for active searching. Using advanced recommendation algorithms , online stores analyze user purchase history, preferences, and behavior to recommend relevant products.

For example, if you regularly buy lactose-free products, the system will automatically suggest new items in that category— before you even have time to think about them . This form of personalization:

• strengthens customer loyalty,
• builds trust in the brand,
• increases the value of the basket,
• creates a more engaging shopping experience.

E-grocery is no longer just a convenient solution – it is becoming an intelligent partner for everyday shopping.

Mobile applications as a tool for everyday shopping

Modern mobile apps are much more than just a mobile version of a store. They're personal shopping assistants that allow you to order products from anywhere, anytime. They perfectly meet the needs of today's consumers, offering:

• various payment methods,
• real-time delivery tracking,
• ability to save and edit shopping lists,
• easy access to order history and promotions.

The popularity of grocery shopping via apps is growing every year. According to Statista, over 60% of e-grocery users in Europe use mobile apps as their primary shopping channel . And this is just the beginning. As mobile technologies advance, we can expect even more advanced features, such as:

• voice recognition when placing orders,
• integration with smart refrigerators,
• automatic reminders about missing products.

Shopping is becoming not only simpler and faster, but also more tailored to our everyday needs.

Autonomous stores and VR/AR technology in the shopping experience

Modern solutions, such as autonomous stores VR/AR technologies , are revolutionizing the way we shop for groceries. Unmanned kiosks, where we scan products ourselves and pay via an app, eliminate queues and save time . This is an ideal solution for those who value independence and speed.

What if you could shop from home and still feel like you're actually in a store? Augmented and virtual reality make it possible. You can:

• virtually walk between the shelves,
• view products in 3D,
• check the freshness of vegetables before adding them to your cart.

Sounds futuristic? Yet it's already happening. Technologies such as:

• Scan & Go systems,
• AR/VR glasses,
• virtual shopping assistants

are no longer a curiosity – they're becoming a real tool that increases customer engagement and improves their shopping experience . And the more accessible these solutions become, the greater their impact on how we shop online. The future? It's already here .

Consumer behavior of the young generation

In the age of digitalization, young consumers are increasingly choosing e-grocery as their primary method of grocery shopping. People aged 20 to 35, living in a fast-paced environment and trying to balance work and life, particularly value convenience and time savings . Online shopping is a natural choice for them – they can quickly and easily stock up on all the products they need without leaving home.

The popularity of e-grocery among the younger generation stems not only from a need for convenience but also from their high digital literacy and openness to new technologies. For this group, online shopping means:

• Time savings – eliminating the need to travel and stand in queues.
• Access to a wide range of products – from organic products, through vegan alternatives, to niche brands not available locally.
• Possibility of personalization – tailoring the offer to individual preferences and lifestyle.
• An expression of a modern approach – conscious, flexible and sustainable consumer choices.

For young people, e-grocery is not only a practical solution, but also an element of their identity and lifestyle.

Users from small towns and their needs

For residents of smaller towns and villages, e-grocery is increasingly becoming not a choice but a necessity. A limited number of stores, limited product ranges, and long distances to the nearest supermarkets often make online shopping the only viable alternative .

The greatest benefits of e-grocery are felt by people with limited mobility, such as:

• Seniors – for whom shopping alone may be physically difficult.
• People with disabilities – who encounter barriers in accessing stationary stores.
• People without their own means of transport – for whom getting to the store is a logistical challenge.

Moreover, online shopping helps reduce the number of individual car trips , which translates into:

• Lower fuel consumption
• Reduction of CO₂ emissions
• Greater care for the environment

E-grocery is therefore not only convenience, but also a step towards a more sustainable and responsible lifestyle.

How the COVID-19 pandemic changed shopping habits

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed our daily habits, including the way we shop. During lockdowns, travel restrictions, and health concerns, e-grocery has become more important than ever . Online shopping has become not only convenient but, above all, safe .

Many consumers who hadn't used this form of shopping before decided to give it a try—and stuck with it. Companies quickly adapted to the new reality, investing in:

• Expansion of logistics
• Process automation
• Shortening delivery times

As a result, e-grocery has ceased to be a fallback solution . Today, it's a fully-fledged part of everyday life, and customers expect:

• High-quality services
• Flexibility in delivery and payments
• Individual approach to the client

Online grocery shopping is not a passing trend, but a lasting change that has become a permanent part of the modern retail landscape.

The e-grocery market in Poland and Europe

e-grocery market , or online grocery shopping, is growing rapidly – ​​both in Poland and across Europe. More and more consumers appreciate the convenience of being able to order food without leaving home. In Poland, this retail segment has enormous growth potential , and the number of platforms offering quick and convenient online shopping is constantly growing.

Forecasts are very optimistic – the Polish e-grocery market could reach as much as PLN 14 billion in the next three years. Why this dynamic growth? Consumers are looking for solutions that are fast, safe, and convenient – ​​and online grocery shopping perfectly meets these needs.

Online grocery shopping has become commonplace in Western European countries. This market is much more developed and often serves as a benchmark for Poland. Experts predict that by 2030, the share of online sales in the grocery sector will increase further, confirming that this distribution channel will play a key role in the future of retail. Advances in technology and logistics are opening up new opportunities but also presenting the industry with new challenges .

The growth of the e-grocery market and its causes

What's driving the growth of e-grocery in Poland? Primarily, changing consumer shopping habits. More and more people are choosing to shop online because:

• save time – no queues and commutes,
• gain convenience – purchases are delivered straight to your door,
• feel safer – especially in the context of the pandemic,
• have access to a wider range of products – including products not available locally.

It is estimated that the value of this segment in Poland will grow to PLN 14 billion within the next few years. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend , but it wasn't the only cause. It's part of a broader phenomenon – the digitization of everyday life and the growing role of technology in commerce.

Modern technological solutions such as:

• mobile applications,
• automation of logistics processes,
• intelligent order management systems

– are making online grocery shopping increasingly simpler and more intuitive. This is just the beginning of the digital transformation of grocery retail .

E-grocery in Poland: specificity and pace of development

e-grocery market is growing at an impressive pace. More and more consumers are regularly using this form of shopping, and the number of available platforms and business models is constantly growing. From large retail chains to specialized online stores , everyone is striving to meet the expectations of today's customers. -> (Why is it worth starting an online store? 19 reasons)

The diversity of offerings translates into a wide selection of products – often ones that aren't available in traditional stores. Examples include:

• local and organic products straight from farmers,
• intelligent recommendation systems,
• automated warehouses,
• instant deliveries in large cities.

All of this makes e-grocery in Poland one of the most promising e-commerce segments . And there are many indications that we are only at the beginning of this digital revolution in grocery retail.

E-grocery in Western Europe as a benchmark

In Western European countries, e-grocery is already standard. This market is mature and can be a valuable source of inspiration for Poland. By 2030, the share of online sales in the grocery sector is expected to increase further , confirming its strategic importance for the future of retail.

Why is e-grocery so popular there? Here are the key reasons:

• convenience and time saving,
• a wide selection of products,
• advanced delivery systems,
• integration with smart home devices,
• personalization of the offer.

For example, in the UK, some chains offer same-day delivery in selected locations – a level of service that's impressive.

Poland has a chance to follow the same path – drawing on Western experiences while also creating its own solutions tailored to local realities. This isn't about copying, but about wise adaptation and development on its own terms .

Challenges and the future of e-grocery

e-grocery market is growing rapidly, but it faces many challenges. One of the biggest challenges remains delivering fresh produce . This isn't just a matter of efficient logistics, but also advanced refrigeration systems. Maintaining quality and freshness at every stage of delivery is key to customer trust —and trust is easy to lose and much harder to regain.

What's next? The future of e-grocery depends on innovation . Technology can solve many problems, but not everything can be solved by algorithms. Today, customers expect not only speed and convenience but also environmentally friendly solutions. Will refrigerators order food themselves? Will drones deliver groceries in 15 minutes? While this sounds futuristic, the e-grocery sector cannot afford to stagnate . It must develop dynamically to meet growing market expectations.

Technological and logistical barriers

In the world of e-grocery, the biggest challenges are technology and logistics . Keeping products fresh during transport isn't just a technical challenge—it's fundamental to customer satisfaction. Lack of adequate refrigeration on a hot day can mean not only complaints but also a loss of loyalty .

Fortunately, technology isn't standing still. More and more companies are investing in modern solutions, such as:

• warehouse automation – increasing efficiency and reducing human errors,
• intelligent supply chain management systems – enabling faster response to changes,
• mobile cold stores with IoT sensors – monitoring temperature in real time.

However, not every technology is a breakthrough. The ability to quickly test and implement solutions that actually work will be crucial . Flexibility and agility can become a competitive advantage in this dynamic environment.

Online and offline integration in an omnichannel model

e-grocery companies are implementing an omnichannel model , seamlessly connecting the digital and physical worlds. This approach increases shopping convenience and provides customers with more options, such as:

• online order with in-store pickup,
• express home delivery,
• hybrid forms of shopping – e.g. online booking and payment on site.

This not only benefits consumers, but also benefits businesses:

• better inventory management,
• optimization of delivery routes,
• personalization of the offer in real time.

Omnichannel isn't a passing trend, but the foundation of the future of online grocery retail . Soon, we can expect even more advanced solutions, such as virtual shopping advisors and smart pickup points. The line between online and offline worlds could disappear entirely .

Trends and development prospects for the e-grocery market until 2030

e-grocery market looks incredibly promising through 2030. Online shopping is gaining popularity not only for its convenience, but also because consumers are increasingly paying attention to the origin, quality, and ethical nature of products .

In the coming years we can expect:

• greater process automation – from order picking to delivery,
• development of artificial intelligence – in personalizing offers and customer service,
• ecological solutions – such as reusable packaging or emission-free deliveries.

The green revolution in e-grocery has already begun . Will online grocery shopping become the new standard? Everything points to it. But remember – technology is just a tool . True success will be achieved by companies that can respond to real people's needs – quickly, effectively, and with environmental care .

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