NewsSHOPtoCOOK Joins the AppCard Family

January 5, 2026
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AppCard Acquires SHOPtoCOOK to Boost Digital Commerce & Media Reach for Independent Grocers and CPG Brands

Buffalo, NY / New York, NY — AppCard is the leading marketing and analytics platform for independent grocers. Today, the company announced it has acquired SHOPtoCOOK, a digital marketing firm based in Buffalo, NY. SHOPtoCOOK is well-known for its grocery websites, in-store kiosks, and social media support.

This acquisition follows years of teamwork between the two companies. Furthermore, it marks a major step forward for AppCard. The goal is to create a smooth digital experience for grocers, shoppers, and CPG partners alike.

Together, the companies help grocers bridge the gap between physical stores and digital apps. As a result, they combine AppCard’s data and coupons with SHOPtoCOOK’s websites and recipes.

“We are bringing together two platforms that already work well as a team,” said Yair Goldfinger, Co-founder & CEO of AppCard. “For years, we have helped grocers make digital tools easier to use. Consequently, by joining forces, we are creating a more connected experience for everyone.”

Strong Results and Better Reach

Currently, about 18% of all digital coupons are clipped on SHOPtoCOOK websites and kiosks. This fact highlights why it is vital to meet shoppers where they are. In addition, this integrated approach helps retailers solve a common problem. It ensures that digital tools are easy to find and use at every step of the shopping trip.

New Value for CPG Brands

Through this deal, AppCard greatly grows its retail media reach. The combined platform now includes thousands of websites and kiosks. Moreover, these tools create millions of impressions during key moments, such as meal planning and recipe searches.

For CPG brands, this expanded reach offers several benefits:

  • Wider Distribution: They can share personalized coupons across trusted retail channels.
  • Better Visibility: Brands gain more notice through recipes and in-store kiosks.
  • Constant Influence: They can reach shoppers before, during, and after a store visit.
  • Clear Data: Brands can now link ads directly to sales and coupon use.

By doing so, AppCard strengthens its place as a top platform for brands that want measurable results in the grocery industry.

A Simple Experience for Grocers

The new AppCard offering helps grocers in many ways. For instance, they can now:

  • Provide a steady experience across websites and rewards programs.
  • Link digital coupons directly to recipes and shopping lists.
  • See deeper insights through better data reports.
  • Save time by using one platform instead of many.

“SHOPtoCOOK was built to inspire shoppers through great content,” said John Thompson, CEO of SHOPtoCOOK. “AppCard has been a great partner for a long time. Therefore, joining them allows us to grow our impact and deliver more value to our partners.”

Looking Ahead

SHOPtoCOOK will now become part of the AppCard platform. Meanwhile, both teams will continue to support current customers. They will work together to ensure a smooth transition while building new tools for the grocery market.

About AppCard

AppCard is a comprehensive rewards and marketing engine powering shopper loyalty for independent grocers of all sizes. It simplifies shopper retention by combining personalization with digital coupons and AI-driven insights. AppCard empowers retailers to segment their shoppers effectively and deliver targeted, automated campaigns that increase basket size and shopper lifetime value.