Dutch retailer Albert Heijn increased its market share to 35.0% in 2020, driven by strong demand for home delivery of groceries, according to data from Nielsen.
In a year marked by 'extremes', the retailer witnessed the closure of several Albert Heijn 'to go' stores at universities, railway stations, and shops in city centres.
While customer footfall declined in stores, the company's online grocery delivery service ah.nl saw strong growth.
'More Choice And Convenience'
Marit van Egmond, general manager of Albert Heijn, said, "2020 is a year we will never forget. More than ever, we are aware of the vital role supermarkets play in everyday life. We made every effort to ensure that customers could simply do their shopping.
"In addition, there was room for initiatives to offer customers more choice and convenience, such as the expansion of online capacity, the roll-out of self-scan and a stronger focus on a healthier assortment."
Other Initiatives
Last year, the retailer launched a temporary home delivery service on Sundays to meet growing customer demands amid the pandemic.
It also launched AH Compact - a free delivery service for small households.
In the coming months, the retailer plans to expand this service to other cities .
© 2021 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
