Co-op has expanded its partnership with European e-commerce logistics solutions provider InPost, tripling the number of parcel lockers at the food retailer’s stores in the UK.
Customers will have access to InPost lockers at more than 150 Co-op locations by the end of 2024.
This expansion of parcel collections and returns services will further offer a more convenient out-of-home alternative to customers, instead of home delivery.
According to InPost's retail economics report, more than half of UK consumers now use delivery lockers for online purchases.
With Co-op stores strategically placed in community hubs, the expanded locker network will enhance convenience for local residents.
Co-op e-commerce director Chris Conway said: “Our focus is to make things easier and more convenient for our member-owners and customers, and with our stores located conveniently in high streets, transport hubs, university campuses and residential developments, InPost Lockers can help residents and time-pressed shoppers in our communities pick up or return parcels at a time that is convenient to them, on their way to or from work or when they pop out to pick up their groceries, quickly, easily and conveniently.”
InPost operates a network of 37,000 automated parcel machines and more than 31,000 pick-up and drop-off points across nine European countries, including the UK, Belgium, France, Spain and Poland.
The company has more than 7,000 lockers in the UK alone.
InPost UK CEO Neil Kuschel said: “Last year alone, the number of parcels we handled doubled to 46.5 million, proving that UK consumers love the locker experience.
“This trend continues to gain momentum and our mission through our partnership with Co-op is to continue driving this growth and make locker delivery the 'go to' choice for UK consumers.”
In March 2024, UK’s supermarket chain Aldi partnered with InPost to trial parcel lockers outside a number of its stores, allowing customers to collect and return online orders from other retailers while shopping.
