Major UK supermarket makes change to deliveries this summer

Waitrose is extending its on-demand grocery delivery service this summer to serve football fans during the World Cup. The UK supermarket will offer late-night deliveries from more than 50 stores, with availability until midnight, and in some cases 24 hours a day, throughout the tournament period. The move follows a 17% increase in orders during recent England and Scotland matches, alongside surging online searches for Waitrose’s No. 1 pizza (+1,700%) and “World Cup crisps” (+1,400%). Laura Burbedge, director of online at Waitrose, said deliveries will help keep fridges stocked for both late-night and early-morning kickoff schedules. Delivery slots will be handled via partners including Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat, while supermarket opening hours will not be extended and alcohol will not be offered during late-night slots. The company noted it may expand the service if demand proves strong.