Co-op has partnered with Royal Mail to bring parcel lockers to its convenience stores, with the first 100 locker locations set to be rolled out this summer.

The lockers, which will allow shoppers to drop-off pre-labelled Royal Mail packages and returns 24/7, aim to meet growing demand among customers for pick-up drop-off (PUDO) points.

“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,” Anna Malley, Director of Partnerships & Acquisitions at Royal Mail, said.

The lockers aim to increase convenience for shoppers, according to Malley, which was a key factor in the 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,” she said.

Co-op already partners with other parcel locker operators, including Amazon, InPost, Quadient and Yeep. The addition of the Royal Mail lockers will take the total number of PUDO locations at Co-op stores to over 900.

“We are delighted to partner with Royal Mail, enabling Co-op to further expand its network of safe, secure and convenient parcel lockers,” said George Hayworth, Co-op’s Head of Online Development. 

“Co-op is focused on developing added services and enhanced convenience – we aim to have the best small shops and ensure our stores [offer] a range of services that meet local needs.”

George Hayworth, Head of Online Development, Co-op

Hayworth added that growing Co-op’s network of lockers will “help residents, commuters and time-pressed consumers pick up or return parcels at a time that suits them, quickly, easily and conveniently.”