DPD UK teams with Quadient on network of smart parcel lockers
Parcel delivery firm DPD has partnered with Quadient to access a new UK wide network of smart parcel lockers.
Quadient will initially install 500 contactless locker stations this year, with a plan for 5,000 in the coming years.
200 of the initial installations will be 24/7 outdoor facilities, and locations could include shopping precincts, housing estates, serviced car parks and higher education sites.
Parcel recipients will be able to select a locker delivery from their DPD delivery notifications.
They will then receive a confirmation once the parcel is in the locker and can access their parcel using a one-time PIN or by scanning the QR code in the notification to open the correct door.
The initiative is in addition to DPD's existing nationwide network of 6,000 Pickup shops, which includes the likes of Post Office, Sainsbury's, Homebase, Argos, Morrisons, Go Outdoors, Matalan and the Coop as well as a network of independent convenience stores including Collect+.
Elaine Kerr, DPD UK CEO, comments: "Our parcel recipients already have the option to divert a delivery to their chosen Pickup shop using the DPD app or from their parcel notifications, but now they will also be able to select a smart locker delivery.”
“We know that, for some people, a secure and convenient out of home parcel pickup point is going to be desirable.
"For people who are at home or have a reliable safe place or a good relationship with their neighbours, home deliveries will remain the number one preference, but parcel recipients always tell us they also want choice and control over their deliveries.”
“Many households have become more reliant on deliveries post-pandemic, but not everyone is at home all the time now.”
“So, it is important that we continue to develop new smart, safe and secure delivery options. It is really exciting to think about the kind of locations that could be most convenient for people, going forward such as libraries or maybe even pubs.”
Ian Caminsky, SVP & MD Parcel Locker Solutions DACHIT/UKI at Quadient, comments: "Our Parcel Pending smart lockers are a natural extension to DPD's fantastic range of delivery options, and our software integrates perfectly to enhance their real-time customer notifications.”
"As the volume of parcels sent in the UK continues to grow, people need to be given more delivery options that fit alongside their everyday lives.”
“Parcel lockers have an increasingly important part to play in the mix: preventing theft, supporting 24/7 availability, and helping cut the cost and environmental impact of repeated redelivery attempts.”
