CollectPlus today set out plans to expand its network by a third to 7,500 stores over the next 12 months. In the long term, it says, it aims to have 12,00 stores in its network, and its ambition is to become a household name, recognised as a convenient alternative to the Post Office.
The delivery network, which is just about to turn five years old, wants to be more accessible than the Post Office, with more convenient locations and opening hours.
CollectPlus, a joint venture between PayPoint and Yodel, includes some 5,500 convenience stores, petrol stations and other outlets after a year in which the service grew by 25% and handled its 20 millionth parcel – in November 2013. The network now accepts returns for more than 260 retail brands, while shoppers can also collect or drop off parcels at its participating stores.
“Our philosophy has always been to make life easier for our customers,” said Neil Ashworth, chief executive of CollectPlus. “Whether a customer is returning, sending or collecting one or several parcels, we want them to have the best possible experience from start to finish. As such, we are committed to expanding the CollectPlus network to ensure our unique offering is available wherever our customers are, and in stores that have the capacity and ability to deliver a great service even during busy times.”
It illustrates its convenience with figures that show 58% of online click and collect purchases picked up from CollectPlus stores were picked up outside traditional opening hours.
“The internet gives shoppers the ability to browse and purchase goods whenever and wherever they like,” said Ashworth. “However, we know from our own research that inflexible deliveries can damage the overall shopping experience for customers. Part of the appeal of shopping online is the convenience it offers, but as well as being able to make their purchases when they want, people also want to be able to get their goods at a time and a place that suits them.”
Last month CollectPlus unveiled a new cross-channel marketing campaign that includes its first TV ad, developed as the company looks to become a household name.
