Co-op royal mail partnership

Source: Co-op

Co-op will add the Royal Mail parcel lockers to 100 of its stores

The Co-op is the latest retailer set to roll out Royal Mail parcel delivery lockers, as the delivery giant continues its expansion across retail.

Over summer, Co-op will add the new click & collect lockers to 100 of its stores.

Initially the lockers will only be able to process drop off pre-labelled parcels and returns for delivery. However, Co-op hopes to roll out a collection function “soon”, which will allow shoppers to order post to the lockers. Prices start at £1.55 for a small parcel.

“We are delighted to partner with Royal Mail, enabling Co-op to further expand its network of safe, secure and convenient parcel lockers,” said Co-op head of online development George Hayworth.

“Co-op is focused on developing added services and enhanced convenience – we aim to have the best small shops, and work to ensure our stores are a convenient destination for a range of services that meet local needs. Including growing our network of lockers to help residents, commuters and time-pressed consumers pick up or return parcels at a time that suits them, quickly, easily and conveniently.”

Once the initial rollout is complete, Co-op will have more than 900 parcel lockers at its stores, through its existing partnerships with Amazon, Inpost, Quadient and Yeep.

It makes the convenience retailer the latest grocer to partner with Royal Mail, following the launch of its parcel locker division in December. Sainsbury’s launched the service at an initial six of its stores in April, to kick-start a new “long-term partnership”.

“We are focused on rolling out lockers in locations that are as convenient as possible for our customers, so Co-op’s model of providing a hub for community services at its stores is perfect,” said Anna Malley, Royal Mail director of partnerships and acquisitions.

“Our customers are sending more and more parcels, whether that’s returning online purchases or selling second-hand clothing on marketplaces, so it’s crucial that we give them a wide range of options to do so. This partnership will help us to expand our network, creating even more drop-off points.”