Global parcel locker operator Quadient has announced a new partnership with Homebase, one of the UK’s largest home improvement retailers, to roll out smart lockers for convenient delivery and returns solutions for customers.
The new partnership allows Homebase to host parcel lockers as part of Quadient’s Open Locker Network, offering secure delivery and pickup solutions for carriers and consumers at its stores across the UK.
The partnership is a further step on Quadient’s journey to roll out 5,000 open locker locations across the UK. Other recent partnerships include Royal Mail, Stonegate Group, UPS and Motor Fuel Group (MFG). The Open Locker Network is also used by DHL, DPD UK, and Evri.
The smart lockers
The Parcel Pending by Quadient lockers leverage advanced monitoring and tracking cloud-based technologies. Customers receive real-time automated messages once parcels are delivered into one of the compartments. These messages provide unique pick-up codes to be used on-screen, or a barcode for touchless pick-up.
“The introduction of smart lockers makes it even easier for customers to pick up or return their online deliveries in-store, as well as acting as an extension of our own click and collect service,” said Neil Robinson, Head of Property at Homebase.
Katia Bourgeais-Crémel, EVP of Parcel Locker Solutions Europe at Quadient, continued: “Our ambition is to provide an unparalleled service for all players of the e-commerce value chain, consolidating multi-carrier parcel flows and creating an exceptional customer experience. By installing our open lockers alongside its other in-store services, Homebase can become a one-stop shop for customer needs, all while freeing up in-store staff and team members and reducing the environmental impact of parcel deliveries.”
Sustainable and secure deliveries
Alongside convenience, the parcel lockers also offer a sustainable and secure alternative to home delivery, according to Quadient. This meets the demands of customers. A survey of 2,000 UK adults aged 18 and over conducted on behalf of Quadient in May 2023 revealed that nearly half (47%) of UK adults are worried that the way parcels are sent and received is not sustainable.
Not only do parcel lockers offer a more environmentally friendly option, but they help consumers avoid parcel theft and missed deliveries. In fact, 72% of consumers are open to using smart, secure parcel lockers, Quadient noted.
