Co-op, which has stores across Birmingham, is making a major change to its in-store services, the retailer and supermarket giant has confirmed.
Co-op, which has stores across Birmingham, is making a major change to its in-store services, the retailer and supermarket giant has confirmed.
A major supermarket is making a major change to 100 stores this summer. The Co-op, which has stores across Birmingham, is making a major change to its in-store services, the retailer and supermarket giant has confirmed.
Co-op shoppers who rely on Royal Mail to send and receive online orders will be able to use parcel lockers from this summer. The chain is rivalled by the likes of Lidl, Aldi, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and more.
Royal Mail and Co-op plan to have lockers at 100 of the convenience chain’s stores meaning people will be able to drop off pre-labelled Royal Mail parcels and returns 24/7.
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The lockers provide label printing, meaning customers simply need to pay for postage online and print the label by scanning a QR code at the locker, or request a QR code if they are returning a purchase.
Anna Malley, director of partnerships and acquisitions at Royal Mail, said: “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.
“Our customers are sending more and more parcels, whether that’s returning online purchases or selling secondhand clothing on marketplaces, so it’s crucial that we give them a wide range of options to do so.”
The move will take the total number of parcel lockers at Co-op stores to over 900, including those offered by Amazon, InPost, Quadient and Yeep.
George Hayworth, Co-op’s head of online development, said: “We are delighted to partner with Royal Mail, enabling Co-op to further expand its network of safe, secure and convenient parcel lockers.
“Co-op is focussed 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.”
With the shake-up, the chain has become the f irst retail group in the convenience sector to host Royal Mail parcel lockers at stores.