Autumn 2008

A home shopping drop-point network called Drop & Collect is under development by Home Delivery Network. It will be based on convenience stores, and is already on trial in two areas of the West Midlands. We understand a full launch is planned for the new year, though HDNL is making no official comment yet.

Initially the system is focusing entirely on returns. There is no mention of any plans to handle outgoing deliveries. However, there is speculation that outward deliveries might be added once the system is up and running nationwide. The name of the service implies this, as does the double-arrow symbol in its logo.

The trial is limited to retail brands in the Shop Direct Group – an arrangement that has enabled the company to offer free returns to all users – but third-party retailers will also be encouraged to use the network, presumably setting their own fees (if any).

The pilot web site makes no mention of the remuneration to agents, but they are required to be open seven days a week and at least eight hours a day. They also have to be existing PayPoint agents.

 

Home Delivery Network itself will pick up the consignments and deliver them back to retailers, offering users the benefits of consolidated operations. Full online track and trace facilities will be available to user companies.

Drop & Collect says it plans to have 1,500 outlets in place by the end of 2009.