The grocery sector is rapidly evolving as consumer expectations shift toward convenience, transparency, and personalization. A new Accio report outlines several key omnichannel trends reshaping the industry in 2025.
1. Real-Time Stock Visibility
More than 50% of grocery retailers now display in-store stock status online – a feature particularly important for food and beverage shoppers. This transparency reduces cart abandonment by up to 66%, according to industry data. For time-sensitive grocery missions, certainty around availability is becoming a must-have.
2. BOPIS Driving Bigger Baskets
“Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store” (BOPIS) has been widely adopted in grocery, with 73% of omnichannel shoppers using the service. Grocery retailers report shoppers spend 1.7x more during pickup, often adding last-minute items. This blend of convenience and impulse purchasing makes BOPIS a powerful growth driver.
3. Social Commerce and Grocery Discovery
Social media is increasingly shaping grocery discovery, particularly among younger demographics. With 59% of Gen Z shoppers engaging through TikTok, social commerce is projected to influence an estimated $80 billion in U.S. retail sales in 2025. For grocers, TikTok recipes and influencer-driven food trends are becoming critical marketing channels.
4. AI-Driven Personalization
From meal-planning suggestions to dynamic promotions, AI is enabling grocers to deliver hyper-relevant shopping experiences. By analyzing customer purchase history and preferences, retailers can tailor offers and increase loyalty.
5. Localized Fulfillment Models
Mobile-first ordering and localized fulfillment strategies such as micro-fulfillment centers and curbside pickup are ensuring faster turnaround times. These investments also reduce last-mile delivery costs while improving customer satisfaction.
The Bottom Line
By 2025, omnichannel grocery isn’t optional – it’s essential. Grocers who embrace stock transparency, BOPIS, social commerce, AI and flexible fulfillment will be best positioned to capture growth and meet evolving consumer expectations.
