Peapod brings virtual shopping to Chicago El system

CHICAGO — Online grocer Peapod is bringing its scan-and-buy grocery ordering system to the Chicago El.

The online retailer, owned by Netherlands-based Royal Ahold, announced Monday that it had placed its virtual store posters along the walls of a tunnel at the heavily trafficked State and Lake station of Chicago's rapid transit system.

The posters, placed on the walls to resemble store shelves, allow commuters to scan bar codes with their smartphones and, using a downloadable app, have the corresponding products delivered to their homes. Brands include Coca-Cola, Barilla, Proctor & Gamble, Reckitt Benckiser and Kimberly-Clark.

Peapod unveiled a similar program in Philadelphia's commuter rail system earlier this year.