Countdown extends delivery subscriptions as shoppers struggle to book slots

Tuesday, 24 August 2021

Countdown is extending its delivery subscription service by two weeks as customers struggle to secure delivery slots during lockdown.

With a monthly or six-monthly “delivery saver” subscription, shoppers get unlimited deliveries for a discounted set fee.

But with demand for home deliveries surging as more than 10,000 people – including 1400 Countdown staff members – go into isolation at home, many subscribers have been unable to book a delivery slot.

Frustrated shoppers have taken to Countdown’s Facebook page to call for refunds or an extension to the delivery saver subscription period.

More than 1400 Countdown staff members across Auckland and Wellington are in isolation, adding to pressure on the supermarkets. (File photo)

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“I have been a loyal Countdown Delivery customer. I pay for a delivery subscription. There are no available slots for me to choose,” one person wrote.

“While I understand these are exceptional circumstances if you can’t provide the service I have subscribed to then surely a credit is in order?”

On Tuesday, a Countdown spokeswoman confirmed delivery saver subscriptions would be extended by 14 days and the situation would continue to be assessed.

“Our online shopping service is under extreme pressure at the moment and we have all hands to the pump to make sure we have both the team in-store to pick the orders, and the delivery slots available for people who need it most, especially our priority assistance customers and people who are having to stay home and isolate,” she said.

“We’re asking anyone who can shop in-store to do so, and if you’re able to shop for someone else who might not be able to get to the supermarket easily, that would be helpful too.”