Over the years we’ve heard a number of times how much people would like to see a grocery delivery service in the city of Buffalo. This morning I stopped into Allentown Trading Company, located at the corner of Allen and Delaware and found a tri-fold brochure outlining a new after work grocery delivery program that they are trying out. I spoke to the cashier who told me that the service was relatively new, but that they felt that there was a definite need in the area for such an offering.
Although Allentown Trading Company is not a fully stocked grocery store, there are plenty of sundry items that people in nearby neighborhoods would likely order for delivery. For example, the business lists baked goods such as breads, pastries and desserts, along with fifteen different types of condiments, then there are fruits and vegetables, cereals, cooking oils, tuna, spices and seasonings, sugar and flour, frozen goods like French fries, lean cuisine, pot pies, ice cream, cat and dog food, and some basics along the lines of milk, eggs, cheese and yogurt.
After a long day of work on Friday, this type of delivery service might be of interest to people who don’t want to go out and load up on beer and deli sandwiches supplies for Saturday and Sunday. Just think of how good a liverwurst sandwich would be, with a six pack of beer… instead of ordering the same old take-out, you can get food and kitchen supplies. The market has really good subs too! Say that you’re grilling outdoors and you can’t make it to the store – you can even order fresh meats such as chicken, ham, steak, pork loin and bacon. By the time you’re grill is ready for the meat, there’s someone at your door with the groceries.Throw in some paper towels and some cleaning products and you’re set to go… without going out.
The delivery service is nice to have around for those who can not get around the city due to old age, sickness, disabilities, or injuries. Or say you had a long day at work, and you’re sitting at home with the family… there are times when going out for bacon, cheese and eggs in preparation for the morning breakfast is just too much of a hassle and you would rather sit on the couch and catch up on some reading. Who wants to shop for groceries after work after all? For those who have kids at home, this service might be a real life saver. Plus you don’t have to wake up early on Saturday morning to go to the store.
For now the delivery service runs on weekdays after work, Monday through Friday, and there’s a two hour delivery window from 5pm-7pm. It might not be long hours and weekends, but it’s a start! It would be nice to see weekends and a couple more hours added to the delivery schedule, but for now the thought is that a lot of people just don’t have time to shop, so why not give them a couple hours a day where they can have food and supplies delivered to the house?
Pay cash at the door upon delivery, or by credit card over the phone when you order. A $3 delivery charge is will be added to each order.
Allentown Trading Company
553 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo NY 14202
716-881-0518
Fax: 716-881-0015