Hermes to open ParcelShops in 450 Co-operative stores

Hermes is rolling its click and collect ParcelShop service out to more than 450 Co-operative stores after a trial with the retailer.

The partnership was piloted in 42 Co-op stores last year and, according to Hermes, the expansion of the deal makes the retailer one of its biggest business partners.

The carrier already has around 4,500 ParcelShops across the UK.

As well as being able to have their parcels delivered to the selected Co-op stores, customers will be able to make returns to retailers including ASOS and John Lewis and send their own parcels through the MyHermes network.

Hermes said it will decide which stores will house the ParcelShops based on location, customer demand and opening hours.

The carrier’s chief executive Carole Woodhead said: “This partnership focuses on convenience, with consumers being able to buy groceries whilst also sending parcels, collecting or returning their online purchases, and vice versa.”

She added: “With 92% of the country within two miles of an outlet, ParcelShops offer a local, useful and convenient click and collect service for retail clients.”

Hermes recently started work on a new £31m super hub in Rugby, just a year after its £10m upgrade of its Warrington site.

The new site will double the carrier’s current capacity, and is expected to open in August 2017.