This week Amazon has become the latest retailer to launch installation services in the UK, meaning that customers ordering items such as TVs or white goods can not only get them delivered to their homes but assembled or installed too.
Such services are a great value-add for customers and it’s something many retailers are already offering. The Amazon offer can be ordered either with products or as standalone services for products bought elsewhere.
For retailers such as AO or John Lewis who already offer such services along with delivery of the product it’s a great opportunity to extend the touchpoint with the consumer and give them a convenience they won’t forget. I recently bought a dishwasher through such a service and the ability to choose my delivery slot and have the product installed at the same time meant an uninterrupted flow in my day – and meant another £90 earned for the retailer. Earlier this month AO revealed that its premium installation fleet had seen strong growth during the last year and it’s not surprising to see why.
And it builds goodwill too. Customers want help in their homes when it comes to delivery – whether that is a full installation or assembly service being on offer or simply drivers delivering goods into the house or relevant room rather than dumping on the pavement and leaving.
Amazon is also in the news this week for the launch of a new locker service in the US. Hub by Amazon provides a locker solution for residents in apartment blocks to have their parcels delivered direct to locker – whether they are delivered via Amazon or another supplier.
Also in the US, UPS has announced a $130 million investment in natural gas technology, its latest investment of more than $1 billion since 2008. The company is building new fuelling stations and rolling out additional CNG vehicles into its fleet.
Back in the UK supermarket giant Morrisons has announced that it has awarded a six year contract to manage its wholesale operations to DHL Supply Chain.
DHL Express meanwhile has launched a global digital ad campaign aimed at showing how it can help retailers expand their international presence.
It’s not such good news for Pass My Parcel however after its parent company Connect Group announced it would close the business and wind down the associated Parcel Shop network this week. The company blamed increased costs.
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