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Newsletter 43 Nov 2008
Home shopping returns drop-off service
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. The pilot is limited to retail brands within the parent company’s Shop Direct Group, and offers free returns to all users, but third-party retailers will also be encouraged to use the network, presumably setting their own fees (if any). Initially the system is focusing entirely on returns, and there is no mention of any plans to handle outgoing deliveries. However, the name of the service implies that this might be offered later, and it may be significant that outlets have to be PayPoint agents. It is not clear how much agents are paid, but they have to be open seven days a week and at least eight hours a day. HDNL itself will handle transport, and will offer online track and trace facilities to user companies. 
Drop & Collect says it plans to have 1,500 outlets in place by the end of 2009.
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