In today’s fast-paced world, the convenience of grocery delivery apps has become a game-changer. One of the pioneers in this industry, Shipt, has set high standards by offering same-day grocery delivery through partnerships with major retailers. However, with growing demand and evolving customer expectations, several other platforms have emerged that provide similar or even enhanced services.
Whether you're a user looking for options or a business considering developing a grocery app like Shipt, it's essential to know what alternatives are making waves in 2025. Let’s explore some of the top apps like Shipt that are dominating the online grocery delivery landscape this year.
1. Instacart
Instacart remains one of the leading competitors to Shipt. Operating in hundreds of cities, it enables users to shop from various stores in their area with real-time inventory updates.
Key Features:
Same-day delivery
Membership options for free delivery
Wide range of store partnerships
Personalized shopping experience
For businesses inspired by Instacart’s model, building a grocery app like Instacart with multi-store functionality and real-time tracking is a proven path to customer engagement and retention.
2. Amazon Fresh
Amazon Fresh has become a household name in grocery delivery thanks to Amazon’s expansive logistics network. It offers a smooth shopping experience, particularly for Prime members.
Key Features:
Integration with Alexa for voice-based ordering
Quick reordering based on past purchases
Fresh produce and household items
Free delivery with Prime
The perfect efficiency and product variety offered by Amazon Fresh make it a strong alternative to Shipt.
3. Walmart Grocery
Walmart’s dedicated grocery delivery platform enables customers to place orders directly from their local stores, offering options for same-day delivery or pickup.
Key Features:
Competitive pricing
Subscription-free delivery options
Curbside pickup and contactless delivery
Integration with Walmart+ membership
If you’re developing a platform tailored for large retailers, this model offers insights into scaling operations with an existing physical infrastructure.
4. FreshDirect
FreshDirect specializes in delivering fresh food directly from suppliers, making it a favorite in urban areas with a focus on quality and sustainability.
Key Features:
Next-day delivery scheduling
Meal kit options
Transparent sourcing of products
Emphasis on organic and local produce
This app stands out for its curated product list and farm-to-table approach—valuable features to consider in a custom grocery delivery solution.
5. GoPuff
GoPuff has redefined grocery delivery by operating its fulfillment centers. Unlike traditional delivery apps that rely on third-party stores, GoPuff manages its inventory.
Key Features:
24/7 delivery in select cities
Flat delivery fee
Fast delivery from owned micro-warehouses
Snacks, drinks, cleaning supplies, and more
GoPuff is an excellent model for businesses exploring a vertically integrated grocery app such as Shipt, but with greater control over logistics.
6. Boxed
Boxed is often described as the “Costco of the internet.” It focuses on bulk orders and serves both consumers and small businesses.
Key Features:
No membership required
Bulk buying discounts
Subscription services for reordering
Business-friendly features
For those considering app development for wholesale grocery or B2B supply chains, Boxed serves as an innovative example.
7. Thrive Market
If health and sustainability are your priorities, Thrive Market delivers organic, non-GMO, and eco-friendly products to its members.
Key Features:
Curated product lists based on dietary needs
Carbon-neutral shipping
Members-only pricing
Auto-ship features
Thrive Market’s niche-focused approach is ideal for startups targeting wellness-conscious consumers.
For Entrepreneurs: Should You Build a Grocery App Like Shipt?
With many successful apps in the market, it might seem like the space is saturated. However, there's still room for innovation. Whether it's hyper-local delivery, sustainable services, or AI-powered recommendations, new apps can carve out their audience by offering value-driven features.
Partnering with an experienced grocery delivery app development company can help bring your vision to life. From wireframing and UI/UX design to backend logistics and real-time tracking, the right team can develop a scalable, user-friendly app that competes with the top players.
Final Thoughts
While Shipt remains a go-to name in the grocery delivery space, the apps listed above are strong contenders offering diverse services from bulk delivery to organic goods and warehouse-to-doorstep logistics. For users, these platforms offer choices tailored to different needs. For businesses, they provide a wealth of inspiration for building an efficient, feature-rich grocery app.
With the right strategy and technical partner, your app can be the next big name in grocery delivery. 2025 is ripe for innovation—make your move now.
