Quick Look:
Sports retailer, Academy, partners with DoorDash for instant delivery services
Academy Sports and Outdoors joins forces with DoorDash for swift, on-the-spot delivery of goods. With an average delivery time under an hour from 285 locations in 19 states, this partnership is another step for DoorDash moving beyond its restaurant-centric roots.
In-depth:
In a bid to expand beyond the culinary scene, DoorDash has teamed up with Academy Sports and Outdoors. This collaboration follows quickly on the heels of partnerships with businesses like Ulta Beauty, Lowe's, The Vitamin Shoppe, Camping World, and Staples, demonstrating DoorDash's growing retail presence.
Chad Fox, Academy Sports and Outdoors' executive vice president and chief customer officer, expressed excitement that the new partnership offers an additional conveniences for customers, letting them promptly grab the gear they need for adventure. In a statement, Fox said, "Academy Sports and Outdoors is perpetually on the hunt for ways to help our customers get to the fun faster, and we believe this team-up with DoorDash will provide them with a new option to obtain the gear they require."
Slated to open a whopping 160-180 new stores over the next five years, Academy Sports and Outdoors is eyeing expansion. In 2024 alone, they're preparing to launch 15-17 new locations. Last fall, the retailer also cemented an extended partnership with Fanatics and agreed to sell L.L. Bean products online and in stores.
The timing of the DoorDash collaboration is no coincidence – in January, Academy Sports and Outdoors appointed Robert Howell as its senior vice president and chief supply chain officer. Howell now oversees the company's distribution centers, supply chain operations, and logistics in the U.S. and overseas.
Further Insights:
- DoorDash has been quite active in expanding beyond restaurants, recently partnering with Schnucks Markets (offering on-demand grocery delivery across over 100 Schnucks locations in the U.S.) and several Canadian grocery stores (Healthy Planet, Nature’s Emporium, Lina’s Italian Market, Sungiven Foods, Supermarché PA).
- Giant Tiger, a nationwide retailer in Canada, has partnered with DoorDash for on-demand grocery delivery, providing customers with everyday essentials, including groceries, health & beauty products, and household items, at in-store prices.
- AI-powered logistics within DoorDash's operations could enhance the efficiency of delivery for Academy Sports and Outdoors.
- Academy Sports and Outdoors, with its expanding retail presence, now includes sports gear and equipment for passionate individuals participating in various sports.
- The Labor department might need to address potential issues regarding the employment of delivery personnel from DoorDash and Academy Sports and Outdoors, considering the increase in their workforce due to the partnership.
- Retailers like Academy Sports and Outdoors, along with other partners of DoorDash, are adding a 'lifestyle' touch to the delivery service, offering not just convenience, but a diverse range of products.
- Technology has played a crucial role in the collaboration between DoorDash and Academy Sports and Outdoors, making it possible to track orders and ensure a seamless delivery experience.
- In the future, DoorDash's service could extend beyond deliveries, providing camping enthusiasts with DashPass subscriptions for discounts on camping gear from Academy Sports and Outdoors.
