logoalt Hacker News

the__alchemist • yesterday at 1:17 PM • 3 replies • view on HN

IMO grocery delivery is a game changer. I don't use either service, but use a different one[s]. Even with a tip (I have been doing $15/per delivery), it's not much more expensive than normal groceries at Trader Joe's etc, and I don't have to put on outdoor clothes, walk to my car, navigate traffic, navigate the aisles, wait in line, reverse... IMO big QOL of life increase.

And second-order effects like I can always have fresh fruit + veggies / not worrying about rot by getting it in smaller quantities delivered more often.

For those wondering about price: It's much cheaper than takeout or prepared food delivery, but more expensive than getting your own groceries. Offset a bit by less food waste.


Replies

galkk • yesterday at 3:21 PM

> Even with a tip (I have been doing $15/per delivery), it's not much more expensive than normal groceries at Trader Joe's

In my experience its significantly more expensive for groceries: up to 20% for items + service fee + subscription + tip.

I was canceling Instacart subscription and they offered me another year for discounted price ($17). I kept it but I won’t ever extend it for full price given how much more it costs.

➕ show 1 reply
Mashimo • yesterday at 2:25 PM

How can that be profitable on the long run?

Feels like it will end up more expensive in a few years

➕ show 1 reply
toomuchtodo • yesterday at 1:19 PM

But if they were gone, the worst is you're putting pants on and getting your own products. There are not essential, they're simply a labor and regulatory arbitrage for gig workers to schlep product to consumers at very low wages.

➕ show 4 replies