1. OSCM Publications
  2. Volume 19, Issue 3, 2026
  3. Transformation of Grocery Shopping and Delivery: Perspective from an Instacart Delivery Shopper

Transformation of Grocery Shopping and Delivery: Perspective from an Instacart Delivery Shopper

Author(s):

  • Yavuz Idug (California State University Long Beach, CA, USA)
  • Ferhat Caliskan (University of Central Oklahoma, OK, USA)
  • Saban Adana (Department of Supply Chain Management, John Carroll University, OH, USA)
  • Sedat Cevikparmak (Department of Supply Chain and Logistics, Florida Gulf Coast University, FL, USA)
  • Hasan Celik (Department of Management, Robert Morris University, PA, USA)
  • Hasan Uvet (Department of Supply Chain Management, Georgia Gwinnett Collage, GA, USA)
Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Publication Year: 2026 Page: 560-575 Available Online: 15 May 2026 DOI: 10.31387/oscm0660538
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Abstract:
This study investigates the economic viability of independent workers in platform-based last-mile grocery delivery systems, focusing specifically on Instacart as a representative service supply chain. While prior research has examined operational efficiency, platform-level matching, scheduling, and service performance, less attention has been given to worker-level net income viability within the operational design and cost structures set by platforms. To address this gap, we develop a hybrid simulation framework integrating discrete-event simulation (DES) and system dynamics (SD). The DES model captures order processing, shopping, and delivery operations, while the SD model represents the accumulation of earnings and costs over time. Drawing on Expected Utility Theory and Distributive Justice Theory, we model worker decision-making under uncertainty and evaluate income fairness relative to effort and cost exposure. Using empirically grounded parameters, we analyze how batch structure, store characteristics, fuel costs, and tipping behavior affect hourly net income. Results reveal substantial earnings variability and highlight trade-offs between throughput efficiency and income stability. This study contributes by introducing a human-centered perspective on last-mile delivery, developing a hybrid simulation approach for platform-based supply chains, and providing insights for platform design and compensation policies.
Keywords:

Last mile delivery, discrete event simulation, peer to peer business

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@article{oscm-2026-914,
  title={Transformation of Grocery Shopping and Delivery: Perspective from an Instacart Delivery Shopper},
  year={2026},
  author={Yavuz Idug and Ferhat Caliskan and Saban Adana and Sedat Cevikparmak and Hasan Celik and Hasan Uvet},
  journal={Operations and Supply Chain Management: An International Journal},
  volume={19},
  number={3},
  pages={560--575},
  doi={10.31387/oscm0660538}
}
Yavuz Idug, Ferhat Caliskan, Saban Adana, Sedat Cevikparmak, Hasan Celik, Hasan Uvet (2026). Transformation of Grocery Shopping and Delivery: Perspective from an Instacart Delivery Shopper. Operations and Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 19(3), 560-575. https://doi.org/10.31387/oscm0660538
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