Co-op becomes first retail group in the convenience sector to host Royal Mail parcel lockers at stores

Co-op and Royal Mail have inked a partnership deal to roll-out parcel lockers at the convenience retailer’s stores. The first ones will launch in summer, with plans for lockers at 100 stores.

These will allow people to drop off pre-labelled Royal Mail parcels and returns 24/7. Collection will also be available at the lockers soon.

They provide label printing, meaning customers 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. Royal Mail’s prices start from £1.55 online for a small parcel that fits through the letterbox.

Royal Mail launched its own parcel locker network in December to meet growing demand for convenient parcel drop-off and collection options from online shoppers and increasing numbers of people selling on secondhand marketplaces. 

Anna Malley, Director of Partnerships and Acquisitions at Royal Mail, says: “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. This partnership will help us to expand our network, creating even more drop off points.”

The move will take the total number of parcel lockers at Co-op stores to over 900, The retailer also partners with Amazon, InPost, Quadient and Yeep.

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

“We’re 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.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Parcel lockers will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.