InPost UK is increasing its search for rural and citybased convenience stores to house one of its free lockers enabling customers to collect parcels.

So far, the company has more than 3,000 locker units across the UK, with its biggest presence in high-density areas such as London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Director of operations and locations Amar Patel told Better Retailing the aim is to become one of the largest automated parcel networks by 2024, and convenience stores can play a vital role in helping to achieve this target.

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“Lockers play an important role in bringing extra convenience to local communities and businesses, particularly in light of changing lifestyles as a result of months of coronavirus curbs,” he said.

“While our primary focus will remain on expanding our coverage in cities and towns – areas that are most affected by congestion and gridlock – there is always the potential for further expansion, and we will look to more rural areas in due course.”

Stores wanting to become a locker site must have an outdoor location that can be accessed by the general public at all times, as well as a 10A connection and a space of 4m width by 2.21m height and 0.92m depth.

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The locker is free of charge, and eligible stores have the opportunity to earn commission throughout the year.

“Hosting an InPost locker is stress-free and hassle-free,” said Patel. “There are no landlord obligations, and our offer carries zero risk, as the customer journey is fully managed by InPost’s customer service team.

“There is no cost to independent retailers, as InPost covers everything, from installation and business rates, right through to maintenance.

“Instead, locker landlords receive an income in the form of an annual fee, paid to them on a quarterly basis, in arrears.”

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Research by the company shows that 43% of parcel locker users make purchases when collecting parcels, and 64% of customers find that on-site lockers make their lives more convenient.

“Hosting a parcel locker holds a number of benefits for independent retailers,” said Patel. “They offer landlords the opportunity to establish a whole new customer base.

“Lockers are also a convenience-booster in communities, and provide people with an easy way to collect and return parcels 24/7, at times that fit around their lives.”

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