Nearly two-thirds of grocery retailers expect to ramp up tech spending, according to a new report from Progressive Grocer.

The annual survey, which takes the pulse of c-suite grocery executives on their outlook and expectations, was fielded at the onset of the COVID-19 health crisis in the United States. As consumers have increasingly relied upon omnichannel fulfillment options because of stay-at-home orders, more grocers are implementing new ways to deliver goods.

While the survey found that just 20% of retailers reported having a fully integrated strategy using in-store, online and digital channels, 39% were executing a strategy for connecting with consumers at multiple touchpoints — up 11% from last year.

Another 27% said they were just getting started with their omnichannel strategy in 2020.

Indeed, when asked about the biggest benefits that smartphones bring to the table, 44% cited online ordering/pick-up-in-store while 37% said e-coupons.

But it was ordering kiosks that grocery retailers said they wanted to implement ASAP as an omnichannel service.

“The kiosks can offer customers an additional engagement point and a more seamless shopping experience everywhere, from the deli and prepared food departments to checkouts and order pickups,” notes the report.

Progressive Grocer is an RIS sister publication. The full report can be found here.