Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS) is changing the way people shop by blending digital convenience with physical retail presence.
During recent years, shoppers have increasingly turned to this option—often called “click-and-collect.” It grew rapidly during the pandemic and continued to stay relevant afterward, showing how much customers value flexible shopping choices. Industry insights suggest that BOPIS retail sales are projected to rise from about 132 million USD in 2024 to more than 150 million USD in 2025, reflecting steady growth across the sector.
This shift matters because customers now expect retailers to provide seamless connections between online browsing and in-store pickup. It’s no longer just a trend but a standard part of the modern shopping journey, influencing how people search for stores “near me” and how local businesses appear on Google Maps.
For retailers, adopting BOPIS means more than just offering another service—it’s about boosting in-store foot traffic, improving customer satisfaction, and staying visible in competitive local searches.
In this blog, you’ll discover what BOPIS really means for e-commerce, why customers demand it, and how businesses can leverage it as part of a strong omnichannel retail strategy. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
What is BOPIS?
BOPIS, which stands for “buy online, pick up in-store,” is a retail strategy where customers place an order through a website or mobile app and then collect their purchase at a nearby physical store. Instead of waiting for delivery, shoppers choose the time and location that works best for them, making it a convenient option for those searching for products “near me.”
This model blends online shopping with local fulfillment, helping customers save on shipping fees while ensuring faster access to what they need. Retailers often combine BOPIS with other store-based options, such as curbside pickup or in-store returns, to give shoppers more flexibility.
The strength of BOPIS lies in its simplicity: customers browse online, pay securely, and pick up the order when it’s ready. By connecting digital browsing with physical stores, it supports an easy shopping journey and helps businesses make better use of their existing locations.
How does BOPIS work?
- Customer places an order online
The process starts when a shopper buys an item through a website or mobile app. Instead of choosing home delivery, they select the in-store pickup option and decide on the most convenient location and time. - The order is confirmed in the system
Once the order is submitted, the retailer’s system checks product availability. This step ensures that the item is in stock and ready for pickup, reducing the chance of delays or cancellations. - The order is routed to the right store
If the product is available at the chosen location, the order is sent directly there for preparation. If not, it may be routed from another store or warehouse so it’s still ready at the pickup point. - Store staff prepare the order
Employees collect the items, pack them, and place them in a secure pickup area. This step ensures the order is organized, accurate, and ready for when the customer arrives. - Customer receives a pickup notification
Once everything is ready, the shopper is notified by email, text, or app alert. The message usually includes instructions, such as where to go in the store and what proof of purchase to show. - Customer collects the order
At pickup, the shopper shows their confirmation code or ID. After a quick check, the order is handed over, and the customer leaves with their purchase without waiting for shipping.
What are the benefits of BOPIS for consumers?
- Immediate Access to Products
BOPIS lets customers get their purchases the same day, often within a few hours of placing an order. This makes it easier for people who don’t want to wait days for delivery and prefer to walk in and collect their items quickly. - Flexible and Convenient Pickup
Customers can avoid long checkout lines and crowded stores by simply picking up what they ordered online. It gives them control over their time since they can choose when to collect their order based on their schedule. - Easy Returns and Exchanges
With BOPIS, customers can check their items on the spot. If something doesn’t match their expectations, they can return or exchange it right away, without having to ship products back and wait for processing. - No Shipping Fees
Since customers pick up their orders in-store, they save on delivery charges. This not only reduces costs but also ensures peace of mind, as they don’t have to worry about shipping delays or damaged packages. - Safer and More Reliable Option
Picking up in person means customers know their items are secure. They don’t have to worry about lost packages, missed deliveries, or products left unattended at their doorstep.
What are the benefits of BOPIS for retailers?
- Higher Conversions
BOPIS helps retailers capture more sales by giving shoppers flexibility. Instead of replacing in-store shopping, it complements it. Customers who choose to pick up in-store often end up spending more, as the convenience encourages frequent engagement and additional purchases. This balance strengthens both online and offline sales. - More Store Visits
When customers pick up their online orders, it naturally increases store traffic. Each visit gives retailers an opportunity to showcase new products or seasonal offers. Many shoppers buy extra items during pickup, especially when promotions are visible and easy to access. This simple step turns fulfillment into a chance for added revenue. - Cross-Selling Opportunities
BOPIS isn’t just about pickup—it creates moments to encourage impulse buying. Shoppers collecting their orders may notice discounts, bundled offers, or essentials they forgot to add online. By highlighting these opportunities at the pickup point, retailers can boost in-store sales without extra effort. - Reduced Shipping Costs
One of the biggest benefits of BOPIS is the reduction in shipping expenses. By using stores as pickup hubs, retailers avoid last-mile delivery costs while keeping customers satisfied with free or low-cost pickup options. This approach improves margins and meets customer expectations without compromising service quality. - Stronger Omnichannel Presence
Integrating BOPIS into retail operations builds a more connected shopping experience. Customers move seamlessly between online browsing and store pickup, which strengthens trust and loyalty. A consistent omnichannel journey not only supports sales but also improves brand visibility in local search results and “near me” queries.
What are the challenges of BOPIS?
- Limited Store Capacity
One of the biggest challenges with BOPIS is managing space inside the store. Without enough room for dedicated storage and pick-up counters, staff often struggle to keep up with orders. This leads to longer wait times and a poor customer experience. - Operational Strain on Staff
BOPIS increases foot traffic and order volume, which puts pressure on store employees. When staff handle both regular shoppers and pick-up orders without proper systems, service efficiency goes down. Clear workflows and organized roles are key to avoiding delays. - Real-Time Inventory Visibility
Customers expect items to be ready when promised. If inventory data is not accurate, orders may be delayed or cancelled. Real-time visibility ensures that the stock displayed online matches what is actually available in-store. - Inventory Syncing Across Channels
One of the toughest parts of BOPIS is syncing inventory between online platforms, warehouses, and physical stores. Without smooth integration, customers may place orders for items that are out of stock, leading to frustration and lost sales. - Order Fulfillment Accuracy
Mistakes in picking or packing can damage trust. A strong BOPIS system requires clear order tracking, reliable notifications, and a smooth process from purchase to pick-up. Accuracy in fulfillment ensures repeat business and positive reviews. - Technology Gaps
Many retailers face challenges because their systems are outdated. Modern order management and inventory solutions are essential for keeping BOPIS reliable. With the right tools, businesses can manage orders faster, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency.
How do you implement BOPIS in an e-commerce store?
- Understand Customer Expectations
The first step in a successful BOPIS strategy is knowing what customers actually want. Some shoppers value speed, while others prefer convenience and flexibility. By paying attention to buying habits and common pain points, stores can design a pickup option that matches real customer needs. - Optimize Inventory Management
BOPIS depends on accurate stock information. Linking online and in-store inventory ensures customers see only what’s available. Real-time updates reduce cancellations, while demand forecasting helps popular items stay in stock. A reliable inventory system makes BOPIS smooth for both shoppers and staff. - Use the Right Technology
Technology is the backbone of BOPIS. An efficient order management system connects online purchases with store fulfillment. Automated notifications, mobile updates, and easy-to-use apps keep customers informed about order status. Seamless integration between platforms ensures nothing slips through the cracks. - Simplify the In-store Pickup Process
The pickup point is where the digital experience meets the physical store. A dedicated counter or clear signage helps customers find the right spot quickly. Well-trained staff and clear instructions, such as what ID or confirmation code to bring, remove confusion and keep lines moving. - Focus on Customer Experience
BOPIS isn’t just about convenience — it’s also about building loyalty. Personalized offers, simple returns, and fast service turn first-time users into repeat customers. Collecting feedback and making small improvements over time keeps the process efficient and customer-friendly.
Conclusion
BOPIS, or buy online pick up in store, has become a practical choice for both shoppers and retailers. It connects the speed of online shopping with the reliability of local store pickup. Customers get their products faster, save on delivery charges, and have the option to collect items at a time that suits them. For retailers, it helps increase store visits, reduces shipping issues, and improves inventory flow.
The demand for convenience is shaping how people shop, and BOPIS is now a key part of that change. Whether it is groceries, electronics, or daily essentials, nearby stores offering pickup options are often the first choice customers search for. As more searches like “pickup near me” and “store with same day pickup” grow, businesses that provide a smooth BOPIS experience stand out on local maps and search results.
In simple terms, BOPIS is not just a trend—it’s a smart step for modern retail. By blending online convenience with local availability, it gives shoppers the flexibility they expect while keeping stores relevant in today’s competitive market.
