Hermes UK has become the first carrier to provide home, shop and locker services for sending, collecting and returning items. It follows a partnership agreement with InPost which will see Hermes include InPost lockers into its nationwide ParcelShop network.

This unique move is designed to further improve Hermes’ customer proposition and will be offered to retail customers who are integrated with Hermes at no additional cost. It will also support the growing Hermes Send C2C business, providing users with more choice and drop-off times.

Initially around 500 automated parcel lockers will be added to Hermes’ network, bringing the total locations in its ParcelShop network to circa 5500. The lockers are accessible 24/7 and are located in a variety of  convenient locations including supermarkets, train stations and petrol forecourts.   

Martijn de Lange, CEO at Hermes UK, said: “We know that for many busy people, lockers are an extremely convenient and attractive option and we’re proud that this initiative makes us the first company to offer a full suite of options. As part of our commitment to be the carrier of choice for every end consumer we are adding increased flexibility and choice for both consumers and retailers.”

Olivier Binet, MD at InPost UK, said: “Almost half of shoppers abandon baskets online due to shipping concerns but for many time-poor customers, Inpost’s parcel lockers offer the best combination of speed and flexibility. We’re therefore delighted to partner with Hermes to support retailers in serving their customers and to bring quick and easy, ‘round the clock parcel collections to the consumer.