Yodel has launched its first collection and delivery service aimed at small businesses and consumers to meet demand.

The service, called YodelDirect, will offer SMEs and consumers the opportunity to arrange for a courier to pick up their parcel from their home or office for delivery across the UK.

Previously collection and delivery was only offered to businesses that were able to supply a minimum annual volume.

Executive chairman Dick Stead said: “The launch of YodelDirect opens up a whole new market and makes Yodel’s services available not just to consumers wanting to send a birthday present, but also to online marketplace sellers, entrepreneurs and small businesses.”

Services include next day delivery, two day delivery, Northern Ireland and ‘Highlands and Islands’ delivery and can be booked online.