Amazon has introduced same-day delivery of perishable groceries in 1,000 cities across the United States, marking a significant step in its bid to compete with quick-commerce rivals such as Instacart and Walmart+.

The e-commerce giant plans to expand the service to more than 2,300 cities by the end of 2025.

Shoppers can now order fresh produce, dairy, meat, seafood, baked goods, and other temperature-sensitive grocery items alongside everyday household products, electronics, and other goods already eligible for same-day delivery.

To maintain quality, Amazon says it uses a specialized temperature-controlled fulfillment network, ensuring products remain fresh during storage and transport. Orders undergo a six-point quality inspection before dispatch, and perishable goods are packaged in insulated bags to preserve freshness during the final leg of delivery.

For Amazon Prime members, same-day delivery of perishables is free for orders over $25. Smaller orders incur a $2.99 fee. Non-Prime customers can also access the service for a flat $12.99 per order, regardless of size.

According to Amazon, when the company first tested perishable same-day delivery in select markets such as Phoenix, Orlando, and Kansas City, customers responded enthusiastically. Staples like bananas, milk, eggs, and bread quickly gained popularity, while strawberries, Honeycrisp apples, limes, and avocados now rank among the top ten most ordered items.

The expansion arrives at a time when Amazon’s physical retail stores have struggled to attract consistent foot traffic, prompting the company to strengthen its online convenience offerings. The move underscores Amazon’s commitment to capturing a larger share of the grocery delivery market, particularly as consumer demand for speed and convenience continues to rise.

Keywords: Amazon, grocery delivery, perishable groceries, same-day delivery, Instacart, Walmart+, e-commerce, Prime membership, fresh produce, quick-commerce.