Albertsons rolls out subscription service, loyalty program

Albertsons is launching a subscription service for unlimited free delivery as one of three new digital offerings.

The  U.S. grocer is rolling out a subscription delivery service called FreshPass, a free deals and delivery app and the new “Albertsons for U” shopper loyalty program.

FreshPass, an optional subscription service, is integrated into the new Albertsons apps. Available for $99 a year (or $12.99 per month), it offers unlimited free delivery on orders $30 or more; and in select markets, free two-hour grocery delivery and curbside pickup.  The company is offering a free 30-day trial to try the program and perks for subscribers, including 5 percent off select owned brand products. Subscribers will also receive rewards that do not expire and exclusive culinary and wine experiences.

The new deals and delivery app seamlessly integrates both the “Albertsons for U” loyalty program and the FreshPass subscription service. Shoppers can download by store name across Albertsons’ 20-plus banners, including Safeway, Albertsons, VONS and Jewel-Osco.

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Available for Apple and Android devices, the deals & delivery app also offers an integrated in-store experience. Smart features include a digital wallet and app coupon integration, list builders, and a pay-from-app feature.

The new loyalty program encompasses features of the grocer’s previous loyalty program, just for U, and existing members are automatically enrolled. The program carries the name of each respective banner store within Albertsons, depending on which store a customer shops most.

Membership is free, and new members immediately earn $5 off their next in-store or online purchase of $25 or more of qualifying items. After that, members earn points on nearly every dollar spent, and points can be redeemed on groceries and gas. Perks include personalized deals, a free item every month, and a special birthday treat.

Albertsons has been expanding the range of digital services it offers customers in the past few months. These include a partnership with the Fetch Rewards consumer loyalty and shopper rewards app to send its users personalized offers, as well as on-demand delivery programs provided in collaborations with DoorDash, Uber, and Anycart.

[Related Content: Albertsons, DoorDash team up for on-demand grocery delivery]

“We have been working hard to revolutionize Albertsons Companies’ digital offerings and enhance all aspects of the food experience and journey,” said Chris Rupp, executive VP and chief customer and digital officer. “We have been in lock-step with our customers and today’s launch of our new deals & delivery app, our ‘Albertsons for U’ loyalty program and FreshPass subscription service exemplifies our commitment to innovation and customer service, meeting shoppers where they want to shop whether that be in store, curbside, or at home.”

This story originally appeared on Chain Store Age.