Sobeys to launch online grocery services to Canada

Stellarton, N.S. – Nova Scotia-based grocery chain Sobeys Inc. will work with U.K. e-commerce firm Ocado Group to launch online grocery ordering, automated fulfilment and home delivery to Canada.

The online grocery shopping services will use Ocado’s proprietary online platform. The U.K. company will partner exclusively with Sobeys in Canada, Sobeys said in a news release.

Ocado’s services include a dedicated website supported by its proprietary “web shop” and mobile grocery ordering applications, construction of an automated warehouse designed specifically for grocery e-commerce, and routing management technology meant to enhance delivery truck efficiency, customer service and punctuality, the release said.

“Our end-to-end e-commerce solution will allow Sobeys to build an online offer in a manner that is profitable and creates exceptional value for our customers, investors and supplier partners,” said Michael Medline, president and chief executive officer of Sobeys Inc.

“Sobeys is a highly successful and much admired Canadian business and we are proud that they have chosen Ocado Solutions to partner with to build their online grocery business,” said Tim Steiner, chief executive officer of Ocado Group.

Sobeys and Ocado will develop their first customer fulfilment centre in the Greater Toronto Area. The build is expected to take approximately two years. They will consider developing centres in other urban areas.