Convenience retailer Co-op has signed a partnership agreement with Royal Mail that will see parcel lockers installed at Co-op stores from the summer of 2025.
In total, the two firms intend to have lockers installed at 100 Co- op stores in the UK.
These addition of these lockers will allow customers to drop off pre-labelled Royal Mail parcels and returns on 24/7 basis at selected Co-op sites. Royal Mail has also announced that it plans to make collection available at the lockers soon.
Label printing is also provided at the lockers, allowing customers to pay for postage online and print the label by scanning a QR code, or request a QR code if they are returning a purchase.
Having previously partnered with Quadient for parcel locker solutions, Royal Mail launched its own parcel locker network in December 2024 to meet growing demand for convenient parcel drop-off and collection options from online shoppers and growing numbers of people selling on second-hand marketplaces.
Anna Malley, director of partnerships and acquisitions at Royal Mail, said: “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 second-hand 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.”
FREE: Subscribe to Logistics Manager’s weekly news round-up newsletter!
George Hayworth, Co-op’s head of online development, added: “We are delighted to partner with Royal Mail, enabling Co-op to further expand its network of safe, secure and convenient parcel lockers.
“Co-op is focused 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.”
This move takes the number of out-of-home drop-off and collection locations to more than 23,000. These locations comprise 1,700 lockers, 8,000 Collect+ stores, 11,500 Post Office branches, 1,200 Royal Mail Customer Service Points and 1,400 parcel postboxes.
Entries for the 29th edition of the Supply Chain Excellence Awards are open now!
There are 30 categories available to enter, spanning a broad range of industries, and highlighting excellence in logistics, supply chains, technology, innovation, people, transport and sustainability.
The Supply Chain Excellence Awards celebrate the hard work, dedication and innovation of those working in the logistics and supply chain sector, recognising excellence in the delivery of efficient, reliable and sustainable logistics.
Click here to learn more about the 2025 awards, and don’t forget to enter before 27 June 2025 – it’s free to enter!
