Australia-based supermarket chain Woolworths has launched Direct to Boot, its new grocery pick-up service in New Zealand.

The retailer will introduce the free service at selected stores across the country in the next few months.

Customers can access the service by placing a minimum order of $50.

Woolworths New Zealand launched the service after a trial that saw more than 50% of pick-up customers opt for Direct to Boot.

The new service will complement the company’s online shopping options, including eLockers, MILKRUN, express 60-minute pick-up, same-day delivery and pick-up.

Woolworths New Zealand digital director Mark Wolfenden said: “We’ve been offering online shopping since 1996 and it’s essential that we keep disrupting ourselves by bringing in new, innovative options for customers.

“During our Direct to Boot trial, we’ve heard really fantastic feedback from some of our older customers and also those with young families who all find Direct to Boot incredibly convenient for their lifestyles.

“There’s no need to get the kids out of the car and head into the store to pick up your order anymore - it’s just pull up, open the boot for our team and you’re done. It really couldn’t be easier.

“We’re excited to get started with 23 stores featuring Direct to Boot and we’ve got some big plans for expansion. Our current ambition is to spread the service further across the country and have it live in 42 of our stores by February.”

In its first quarter of fiscal year 2024 result, Woolworths said that total New Zealand Food (NZD) sales increased by 2.8% to A$2.06bn ($1.32bn).