CINCINNATI — The Kroger Co. is introducing Kroger Ship, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform, in Cincinnati, Houston, Louisville, Ky., and Nashville. The company expects to expand the service to additional markets in the coming months.

Kroger Ship offers doorstep delivery of more than 50,000 center-aisle groceries and household essentials as well as a selection of 4,500 products in Kroger’s portfolio of store brands, such as Simple Truth and Simple Truth Organic. The service is available for $4.99 per order and free for orders over $35.

“Kroger Ship is our next step in creating a seamless experience that allows our customers to shop when and how they want,” said Yael Cosset, chief digital officer of The Kroger Co. “Our new service is just one more way we are redefining the customer experience as part of Restock Kroger, bringing more convenience and options to shoppers across America. Kroger Ship complements and joins our 2,800 grocery stores, 1,250 curbside pickup locations, and delivery service from 1,200 locations.”

He added, “Along with staples and customer favorites, Kroger Ship will carry bulk and additional sizes, and focus on Our Brands, local and international food and flavors, specialty items, and health and wellness products — making it easier than ever before to be your family's hero at mealtime, or anytime.”