Smiths News will introduce an estimated time of arrival (ETA) feature to SNapp this autumn after it was successfully trialled in the south west.

Revealed exclusively to Better Retailing, SNapp users will receive a notification when their driver has departed the depot, and the estimated time of arrival at their shop.

The update should allow retail customers to plan resources more effectively and comes as part of Smiths News’ continual improvement programme.

Read more: New Smiths News app to help retailers manage paper deliveries

SNapp is free to download and the new feature will be automatically available for customers who already use the app. Existing customers using SNapp can also alter their registered delivery time and adjust their opening hours through the mobile service.

The SNapp ETA initiative was initially implemented in the south-west of England, and NFRN South West district president Derek Cook told Better Retailing the reaction from retailers has been positive.

He said: “We are pleased with it as it has saved plenty of phone calls and it makes the information easily accessible. I think it’s going to be of real benefit for the rest of the country.”

William Dodds sits down with the Smiths News senior team to discuss SNapp, delivery standards and maximising news and magazine sales: Smiths News going through wholesale changes