PUBLIX SUPERMARKETS will test curbside pickup of grocery orders placed online as the Florida-based grocery chain tries to keep pace with the service launched at Wal-Mart.

Publix Supermarkets will test curbside pickup of grocery orders placed online, trying to keep pace with the popular service launched at Wal-Mart, as shoppers demand convenience.

Publix launched the test at two stores near Tampa in Wesley Chapel and Valrico. Stores in the Atlanta area will also get curbside pickup by the end of the year.

It follows moves in recent years by Publix to expand grocery delivery services through third-party provider Instacart. The program isn’t available at Orlando-area stores.

“We’ve had great success with Publix Delivery powered by Instacart, and the demand for online grocery services has continued to grow. So we’re excited to test Publix Curbside and learn more about how to best meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said a statement from Maria Brous, director of media and community relations.

With the curbside pickup program, customers place orders on Publix’s website (www.publix.com/ curbside). A pickup time is scheduled, and Publix associates will take the groceries to a customers car.

Unlike home delivery orders through third-party provider Instacart, there is no charge for curbside pickup.

Wal-Mart has been using curbside pickup for the last few months at many of its Central Florida grocery stores, allowing orders to be made online.

The Bentonville, Ark.-based grocery chain has even built curbside pickup bays and awnings at several of its stores.

Reservations for Wal-Mart’s curbside pickup service are limited and quickly fill up.