Quadient launches UK pilot involving solar powered autonomous battery parcel locker

Quadient, a parcel locker and automation solutions specialist, has announced the launch of a pilot programme for the X Series, pitched as an industry first solar powered autonomous battery locker, equipped with returns and label printer features. This will debut during the autumn in the United Kingdom.

As of this month, Quadient is going live with a pilot in the UK to validate performance and adoption, while onboarding carriers and partners.

The X Series lockers combine solar and battery powered operation with outdoor construction, ta returns Drop Box, and a built-in label printer. Powered by a low energy operating system with smart stand-by cycles, the units run 24/7 with zero CO₂ impact during locker usage, even during extended low light periods.

According to Quadient, installation is quick and flexible thanks to an embedded stabiliser that eliminates the need for building work or anchoring, and no grid connection is required. By removing these barriers, the X Series enables deployment in locations previously out of reach.

“We are focused on making parcel delivery and returns more efficient, reliable and accessible for customers,” says Benoît Berson, Chief Solution Officer Lockers, at Quadient. “The X Series pilot will be showcasing how innovation and sustainability can work hand in hand to strengthen our open locker network and contribute to our net-zero objectives under the Elevate to 2030 strategy.”

Additional features include half width compartments for small parcels, consumer-to-consumer exchanges, spare parts, and key handoffs, as well as remote monitoring of solar panels and batteries, with alerts to support reliable service for operators and carriers.

Quadient announces launch of UK pilot for solar powered autonomous battery parcel locker

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

OOH delivery was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

VoCoVo, Everseen, Sensei, Gander, Iceland, Olio, Trust Retail, East of England Co-op, Lekkerland SE, Poq, Mamas & Papas, Varner, Sitoo, and Zebra Technologies were among our winners this year.

We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.

For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”

“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”

He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”

Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.