Hermes handles one million parcels via UK ParcelShop network

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UK parcel carrier Hermes has handled its one millionth parcel arising from its ParcelShop network, just nine months after launching the service.

Leeds-based Hermes said a strong Christmas period had boosted its numbers, when each ParcelShop handled an average of 60 parcels per week.

The ParcelShops are local convenience stores and filling stations at which consumers can pick up their e-commerce purchases if they cannot be at home to receive a parcel.

Hermes launched the network with 500 ParcelShops in July last year, since when the network has grown to 1,500 outlets.

Current plans are to see this number double to 3,000 by the end of this year, along with the introduction of new services including the ability for customers to send parcels from a ParcelShop, including products for return.

Yesterday Hermes said its ParcelShop network is already “extremely” popular with small online retailers and eBay PowerSellers, for whom the two-day delivery service can be comparable to Royal Mail’s second class parcel service but with full tracking.

Rob Edson, the Hermes CFO, said he believed that the ParcelShop network should reach its two million parcel milestone in less than four months’ time.

“myHermes Parcelshop is running well ahead of expectations and we have just achieved weekly parcel volumes of more than 100,000 for the first time,” Edson revealed.

The millionth parcel in the myHermes network was claimed by the BP Riverside Service Station in the carrier’s home town of Leeds.

Nizam Patel, who runs the service station, said: “We have seen a substantial increase in parcel volumes over the last few months as people recognise the simplicity and affordability of myHermes ParcelShop. It is not only providing a valued and alternative delivery service to the local community, but also driving added footfall in store.”