Apr 18, 2019

Pilot Program Reflects the Evolving U.S. Grocery Digital Shopper

ARLINGTON, VA - The 2014 Farm Bill directed United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to conduct an online Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, redemption pilot to better serve all SNAP customers and reflect the evolving U.S. grocery digital shopper. Food Marketing Institute (FMI) has worked with the agency over the past five years to identify the challenges and opportunities of online SNAP redemption. Senior Director, Technology & Nutrition, FMI, Hannah Walker, offered the following statement regarding the initiation of the pilot program:

“We’re pleased to see the online SNAP redemption pilot launch today in parts of New York. The pilot explores the feasibility of using SNAP benefits to shop and pay for groceries online. In just five to seven years, as many as 70 percent of U.S. consumers will regularly purchase consumer packaged goods online, according to FMI research. This pilot program allows individuals of all ages, demographics, and accessibility using SNAP to have the same access as other shoppers using ecommerce programs daily.   

“While today’s launch is limited in stores and geographic areas, we are enthusiastic about the future expansion opportunities for this online retail program.  The pilot is the initial step toward a full nationwide deployment of online SNAP sales to improve access and options for SNAP customers.”

You can view a full list of participating retailers here.