Pick n Pay asap! on winning streak

Pick n Pay has published its audited financial results for the 52 weeks ended 25 February 2024, revealing that its on-demand delivery service has expanded to 541 stores across South Africa.

The retailer reported that its on-demand delivery offerings were the primary driver behind its 74.4% online sales growth during the period.

Pick n Pay noted that its on-demand delivery business grew 102.3% year-on-year. This includes its Asap! platform and Pick n Pay Groceries through the Mr D app.

“The Group reported total online sales growth for FY24 of 74.4%, maintaining its strong online momentum (FY23 sales up 72.0%),” it said.

“Growth was driven by 102.3% year-on-year increase in the Group’s on-demand services, Pick n Pay asap!, via its flagship app, as well as via its partnership with Mr D Pick n Pay.”

It added that Pick n Pay has established itself as the country’s number two on-demand grocery service.

Regarding the expansion of its operations, Pick n Pay said on-demand grocery deliveries are now available from 541 stores nationwide.

While the company didn’t give an exact number of stores in the previous year’s results, the figure is up from “over 400” as of 26 February 2023.

It has also grown the repertoire of products on offer through the app to 28,000.

Looking ahead, the company said it would continue to reinforce its online business, among other things.

“The plan is primarily focused on turning around the Pick n Pay Supermarkets business, while reinforcing the Group’s strategic initiatives in the high growth Boxer, Pick n Pay Clothing and Online businesses, and unlocking value for shareholders,” it said.

Pick n Pay’s on-demand grocery service has grown substantially in recent years.

It reported online sales growth of 97.3%, including scheduled delivery, click and collect, and Asap!, during the first 18 weeks of the 2022/23 financial year.

Around the same time, it announced plans to integrate with the Mr D app, saying the move would significantly increase its grocery delivery userbase.

Its integration with Mr D launched in October 2022, enabling customers to order Pick n Pay groceries through a dedicated section of the Mr D app.

A year later, Pick n Pay revamped its Asap! platform, adding improved search features and AI-powered product suggestions.

“Its improved functionality means customers can easily navigate the vast selection of products and place orders with just a few taps,” said Vincent Viviers, Pick n Pay’s omnichannel executive.