Popular retailer makes major change to online delivery service but not every customer will benefit

A major retailer is offering a new method of online delivery, but only certain shoppers will be able to take advantage of the faster option.

Drone delivery is one of the latest technology-driven services that stores are offering as they want to offer more convenience to their customers.

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GNC has joined the train and launched the service in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The retailer that offers health and nutrition products is now making it even easier for customers to get their vitamins and supplements at home.

The store has partnered with Zipline, allowing all customers who qualify and pre-register their addresses to opt for drone delivery within the city.

“The partnership with Zipline places GNC at the top of the retail category,” said Alan Chester, GNC’s chief supply chain officer, in a statement, as reported by RIS News.

“Drone deliveries are an innovative way to make our order fulfillment, sales and delivery processes more efficient, effective and faster, which ultimately benefits our consumers. We look forward to this first test in a US market while considering domestic expansion.”

As part of the partnership, Zipline’s smaller fleet of aircraft will parachute deliveries to homes.

However, that’s just the beginning of what’s to come at GNC.

By 2024, the store will be able to implement Zipline’s Platform 2 system, which also offers city deliveries.

“Zipline is faster, more convenient and more environmentally friendly than traditional car delivery. We offer consumers and businesses of all sizes and industries the best delivery experience anywhere in the world,” said Irene Scher, Zipline’s senior vice president of US go-to-market, in a statement, as reported by Drug Store News.

“We’re excited that GNC customers can use Zipline to reach their wellness goals in a far more convenient way than before.”

GNC currently operates more than 3,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada.

A MAJOR TREND IN DRONE DELIVERY

GNC is one of many retailers experimenting with drone deliveries to streamline the ordering process for customers who are increasingly relying on online shopping for their purchases.

According to a recent eMarketer report, the number of retail drones is expected to grow from nearly 35,000 in 2022 to just over 110,000 in 2024.

Walmart and Amazon are two of the big companies leading the initiative

Last year, Walmart said it had completed more than 6,000 successful drone deliveries.

Each drone order takes just 30 minutes or less to process and deliver.

While all deliveries must be made within a 0.8 mile radius of a participating location, the service’s delivery is far more efficient than previous options.

So far, Walmart offers the delivery service for $3.99 at 36 locations.

Meanwhile, Amazon rolled out drone technology in 2022, and Kroger also wants to integrate the option into its grocery delivery service.

Target is also making some store changes aimed at providing greater convenience for shoppers.

Also, check out the five new changes rolling out in Walmart stores this summer.