Amazon launches same-day fresh grocery delivery in 1,000 U.S. cities
Amazon is taking a major step into the quick-commerce arena by allowing shoppers in 1,000 U.S. cities to order perishable food items through its Same-Day Delivery service. The expansion positions the e-commerce giant to compete more directly with Instacart and Walmart+ as consumer demand for rapid grocery delivery continues to rise. The company says it aims to extend the service to over 2,300 cities by the end of 2025.
Shoppers can now add fresh produce, dairy, meat, seafood, baked goods, and other perishable groceries to their Same-Day Delivery carts—alongside everyday essentials, electronics, and other eligible items. Amazon says orders are handled through a specialized temperature-controlled fulfillment network, undergo a six-point quality check before leaving the facility, and arrive in insulated bags to keep products fresh.
The service is available at no additional cost for Prime members on orders over $25. Prime members placing smaller orders can still get same-day delivery for $2.99, while non-members pay $12.99 per order, regardless of size.
“When Amazon began to add perishable groceries like bananas, milk, eggs, and bread to its Same-Day Delivery service in regions like Phoenix, Orlando, and Kansas City, customers embraced the convenience,” the company noted in a press release. In fact, strawberries, Honeycrisp apples, limes, and avocados are now among the top 10 most popular items in Same-Day Delivery orders.
This latest move reflects Amazon’s push to strengthen its grocery business as foot traffic in its physical stores lags. By expanding fast delivery options, the company is betting that convenience—and not brick-and-mortar visits—will win over grocery shoppers in the long run.
