Online Grocery Shopping vs. In-Store Shopping: Which is Better for You?

Groceries are just one of those things you have to buy whether you want to or not, but there are ways to make that process a little easier on yourself.

One of the ways that people in Lagos and all over Nigeria choose to buy their groceries is through an online grocery store.

It’s a good idea, especially if you live in the city since it saves you the hassle of driving out to get groceries—but how do online grocery shopping and in-store shopping compare? Let’s find out!

What is online grocery shopping?

Online grocery shopping is the process of buying groceries and household items through the internet, where you can easily compare prices, read reviews, and get access to a variety of products without having to leave your home.

This means that if you live in Lagos, there are no more excuses for not being able to buy groceries or household items. Grocery delivery service is just as easy as ordering any other type of product online.

Advantages of online grocery shopping

1. Saves time

Online grocery shopping is an excellent option if you are busy and do not have the time to go grocery shopping in person.

With a few clicks, a grocery delivery service will provide all of your desired groceries with little hassle. Not only does grocery delivery save you time, but it also saves money.

2. No unnecessary expenses

There are other opportunities to save money and effort by choosing to shop for groceries online.

For example, many grocery delivery services charge a flat fee or a percentage of your total order instead of paying extra per item or a specific delivery fee.

This option allows you to spend only what you need while eliminating any unnecessary expenses that would otherwise increase your grocery bill substantially.

3. Quality and fresh product assurance

Online grocery shopping also allows you to select from various items and brands, which can be difficult to do at most grocery stores.

Since shopping online gives you more selection, you will have a better chance of finding what you need at a lower price than in-store shopping if your goal is to save money or if there are specific products that are otherwise difficult to find near your home or office.

4. Avail of special discounts and offers

Online grocery shopping gives you access to promotions, discounts, and special offers not available in-store.

These promotional options can help you save more money and may provide significant savings that cannot be found elsewhere if your goal is to spend less on groceries.

5. Track your spending

With online grocery shopping, you can easily track your spending progress and see how much money you’ve saved so far.

All transactions are securely processed through secure payment gateways, so you know your information is safe when buying online.

Disadvantages of Online grocery shopping

1. Partially costly

Depending on the online store, you may not always find that extra item; if you do, it might cost more than a regular grocery store in Lagos.

2. No cash payment

Unlike in-store shopping, online grocery stores don’t allow you to pay with cash, which can be inconvenient for some people with no access to bank accounts or credit cards.

How much has online grocery shopping increased since covid 19

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, there has been a significant increase in the number of people shopping for groceries online by 34%.

This is likely because many people are now working from home and do not have the time to go to the store.

Additionally, online grocery shopping can be done from the comfort of your home, appealing to many people during these uncertain times.

Online Grocery Shopping Consumer Behavior

Understanding online grocery shopping consumer behavior will help you understand why online grocery stores in Lagos would be better for you and your lifestyle.

For example, the average person living in Lagos spends an hour daily commuting to work. They are either at home or running errands (or other activities) when they are not at work. That leaves them with barely any time to do anything else – including going to the grocery store. An online grocery store would allow you to order groceries from your house, office, or wherever you are.

Impact of Online Grocery Shopping

Online purchasing channels allow customers to order groceries from the comfort of their homes and get them delivered in a matter of hours. This has been especially useful for people who have demanding jobs, live in high-rise buildings, or are too busy to grocery shop.

What is in-store shopping?

In-store shopping is the traditional way of grocery shopping that most people are familiar with. You go to a store, find the needed items, and then take them home. The main benefit of in-store shopping is that you can see and touch the items before you buy them.

Advantages of in-store shopping

1. Personalized experience

In-store shopping allows you to touch and feel the product before buying it and ask questions from a knowledgeable sales associate.

If you have any special dietary needs, then an in-store grocery store is your best bet to find what you need.

2. Support local businesses

When you consider in-store shopping, you’re not only supporting the business but also helping them keep their doors open, which keeps them around so that they can provide you with more variety of products.

It’s great to know that the money you spend will go back into your community, which we all want at some point.

3. Instant gratification

One fantastic thing about in-store shopping is that once you purchase a product, you don’t have to wait long for it to arrive.

If there are any concerns about availability or out-of-stock items, then the staff can offer solutions on how they might be able to help.

Disadvantages of in-store shopping

1. Time-consuming

In-store shopping can be time-consuming, especially if you have to travel to different stores to find everything on your list.

2. Expensive

It can also be expensive, as you may end up buying things you don’t need if they’re on sale or you see them while you’re in the store.

You may also have to deal with crowds, long lines, and frustrating customer service experiences.

Which is better? Online Grocery Shopping vs. In-store shopping

There are pros and cons to both online grocery shopping and in-store shopping. In-store shopping lets you see and touch the products before you buy them, but it can be time-consuming.

Online grocery shopping is more convenient, but you can’t always be sure of the quality of the products. Ultimately, it’s up to the shopper to decide which method is best for them.

However, it is recommended to use an online grocery store because they offer the best of both worlds – convenience and quality!

Final word

In a nutshell, online grocery shopping is more efficient and cost-effective than a traditional grocery store. All you need to do is get your groceries delivered to your doorstep with just a few clicks of the mouse!