We frequently hear phrases like “click and collect” and “curbside pickup” used interchangeably. However, there are a few slight differences and subtleties that are important to note.
Setting up the appropriate delivery procedure for your store or restaurant can be made easier if you are aware of the exact meaning of each “buy online, pick up in store” strategy.
If you tend to favour precise language like we do and want more clarity over the different delivery options before making a decision for your company, then read on!
According to an Australia Post study from 2022, four-in-five Australian households (81%) made a purchase online in 2021, spending a total of $62.3 billion on online shopping.
Not only that, but 93% of respondents said they would keep or expand their shopping habits in the following year.
The positive news for retailers comes with certain customer expectations too. Australian consumers value convenience, notably features like free shipping and same-day delivery. In fact, the same study indicates that BOPIS services — referred to as click and collect in the material — had grown to 13.6% in 2021. Read more on Click and Collect via Business Insider.
In short, BOPIS stands for “buy online, pick up in store”. After customers buy from an online store, they can select the most convenient location to pick up their order. It could be a store, a drive-through, or a designated area. Many platforms even allow pickup time selection.
Customers browse and order from home, pick up at their convenience.
Many retailers report higher in-store purchases upon arrival.
Avoiding shipping costs often encourages larger online orders.
During lockdowns, BOPIS was a lifeline for many stores.
It's now a critical part of modern omnichannel retail.
Customers make an online purchase and pick up via drive-through or parking bay — often same day. Walmart began offering it in 2013, and it's now widely adopted.
Lockers are secure, queue-free, and accessible 24/7. Customers receive a code and can collect without human interaction. Convenient for both customers and retailers.
ROPIS – Reserve Online, Pick Up In Store (reserve, don’t pay immediately)
BORIS – Buy Online, Return In Store
BOSS – Buy Online, Ship from Store
From classic BOPIS to lockers and curbside pickup, customers expect seamless, convenient collection options. These strategies are now essential — not just “nice to have.”
Want to implement a BOPIS experience in your store or venue?
Storeplay IQ offers a customisable booking platform that makes it happen.
👉 Talk to Storeplay