Walmart’s most popular drone deliveries reveals a shopping trend

It’s a bird, a plane, not it isn’t Superman, but Walmart’s most popular drone deliveries are taking flight more frequently. With the grocery store brand expanding its drone delivery program, the shopping orders reveal how and why consumers are using the service.

Several years ago, some people might have scoffed at the idea of online grocery shopping, curbside pick-up, and other grocery deliveries. After decades of roaming the aisles searching for the best deals or new find, consumers craved convenience. Placing an order, selecting a delivery time, and never leaving the couch had a great appeal. Whether it is time saving or just less hassle, the brick and mortar store is not quite as bustling as it once was.

While grocery delivery has increased, the concept of drone delivery becoming more available. Although the sight might not mimic a scene from the Jetsons, the more automated concept may have some benefits. Walmart is looking to capitalize on this grocery delivery concept.

In a recent Walmart announcement, the company completed its expansion plans for 2022. According to Vik Gopalakrishnan, vice president, innovation & automation, Walmart U.S., “I’m incredibly proud of our team for creating the largest drone delivery footprint of any U.S. retailer and providing customers with an incredibly fast – and innovative – option for delivery. We’re encouraged by the positive response from customers and look forward to making even more progress in 2023.”

What were Walmart’s most popular drone deliveries?

Although the drone deliveries are a limited location offering, the 36 drone delivery hubs collected some data on the most popular orders. According to Walmart, the top orders were: “Great Value Cookies and Cream Ice Cream 16 oz, 2lb Bag of Lemons, Freshness Guaranteed Hot Rotisserie Chicken, Red Bull 8.4 fl. oz, and Bounty Select-a-Size Paper Towels.”

The list is quite diverse. But, it does give a glimpse into the quickness that the drone delivery service offers. If ice cream is the top order, that service must keep it frozen. After all, no one is ordering ice cream soup.

Whether these grocery items represent fulfilling a craving, fixing a need, or just a whim, there plenty of items that fit the bill. With a 10 lb weight and volume requirement for drone delivery, the Walmart Neighborhood Market has 85% of its items that fit the bill.

Could Walmart drone delivery come to your neighborhood? Only time will tell, but the additional locations might change the most popular drone deliveries. Maybe it is time to add some Doritos to that list.