Why Convenience Stores Should Consider Offering Automated Parcel Management

Convenience stores should be just that – convenient.

Local convenience stores are staples in neighbourhoods, providing a convenient and reliable source of everyday essentials. Consumers value their local convenience stores as they are there for them in times of need – whether it’s to grab last-minute bits for a food-tech lesson, to replace ingredients on a failed recipe, to grab their weekly lottery ticket, or in more recent times – as an out-of-home delivery alternative by offering parcel pick-up and drop-off (PUDO) services.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, customers value convenience more than ever before. With doorstep parcel thefts increasing more than 500% in just 4 years, it’s no wonder consumers are looking for more secure and convenient delivery methods.

Offering parcel locker services at your convenience store can be a great way to attract new customers and retain existing ones. But you don’t want it to impact on the workload of your staff or take up considerable amounts of storage space. An automated parcel locker system can be a great way to reap all the rewards of PUDO, while maintaining your store’s reputation as a convenient place to shop.

1. 24/7 Service: Convenience stores are known for their extended hours, and offering a parcel locker service that is available 24/7 is a natural extension of this convenience. Customers can pick up their packages at any time of day or night, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
2. Encourage Additional Spend: Driving customers to your store for parcel management could encourage additional spend on other products and services you offer. Recent research shows that 54% of consumers are likely to make additional purchases, and 21% would spend £20 or more at a store that enabled them to pick-up or drop-off parcels.
3. Attract Online Shoppers: Online shopping has become increasingly popular. With 84% of UK citizens now shopping online, customers are always looking for ways to make the process more convenient. 36% of consumers don’t want to have to pick up or drop off parcels at the post-office. By offering a parcel locker service at your store, you can attract those online shoppers who are looking for an alternative way to send and receive their packages. This can lead to increased foot traffic and new customers for your store. Furthermore, hosting an open network parcel locker can attract even more online shoppers than a standard closed-network locker. This means customers have the flexibility to choose the carrier that works best for them, and in turn, you’re positioning your business as a preferred package hub on major carrier websites. This can differentiate your store from competitors who only offer carrier-specific lockers, giving you an edge in the marketplace.
4. Increase Customer Loyalty: By offering a parcel locker service, you can provide your customers with a convenient and secure way to receive their packages. This can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty, as they will appreciate the convenience of the service. Loyal customers are more likely to recommend your store to others, leading to new customers and increased revenue. In fact, 40% of consumers have used businesses more regularly because they make it easy to pick-up or drop-off parcels.
5. Provide a Unique Service: In addition to offering a carrier-agnostic parcel locker, another unique service that can set your store apart from the competition is offering printerless returns. With Parcel Pending by Quadient’s Drop Box Locker, customers no longer need to print out labels at home or at a separate location, as there is an in-built printer at the locker. This can save customers time and hassle, and make the returns process much more convenient. By offering this innovative feature, your store can attract even more customers who are looking for a hassle-free, returns process. This can help to build a loyal customer base, as customers will appreciate the added convenience and ease of using your store’s parcel locker and printerless returns services.
6. Increase Foot Traffic: Hosting a parcel locker can increase foot traffic to your store, as customers come to pick up or drop off their packages. This can lead to new customers discovering your store and making purchases while they are there.
7. Expand Your Reach: By offering a parcel locker service, you can expand your reach beyond your local community. Customers who live outside your area may choose to shop at your store because of the convenience of the parcel locker service. This can lead to increased revenue and a larger customer base.
8. All Reward, No Risk: As a Host in Parcel Pending by Quadient’s Open Locker Network, you can earn extra income at no cost to you. That’s right – we cover all installation and maintenance.

By hosting a parcel locker, you can improve the customer experience, attract new business to your store, and maintain your reputation as a convenient place to shop.

If you’re interested in hosting an Open Network Parcel Locker – get in touch. We’re actively expanding our network of Hosts and would love to speak with you.