CollectPlus, part of the PayPoint Group, has recognised the efforts of its retailer partners in delivering record parcel volumes in its busiest Christmas in 2021.
In November and December 2021, overall parcel volumes were up 11.3% compared to the same period in 2020, with more than 6.5 million packages handled through the Collect+ network of over 10,000 stores, despite additional Covid-19 restrictions.
CollectPlus data shows that its online Christmas shopping behaviour has changed dramatically since 2019. Figures show that purchases and in-store pick-ups in 2021 were more evenly spread over the month of December, rather than the pre-pandemic ‘weekend pinch point’ where consumers mainly focused their shopping at weekends.
The company said in-store customer experience delivered by retailers improved again year-on-year, with positive customer reviews, backed up the investment made over the past 12 months in service enhancements and new technology.
The news comes as CollectPlus launches its plans for 2022 to build on this great performance. Key initiatives now in motion include opening the entire Collect+ network to returns for all carrier partners; expanding ‘in-flight diversion’ of parcels to convenience stores for more carriers; parcel locker trials to complement the existing network; and new technology to improve the in-store customer and retailer experience.
Nick Williams, Head of Strategic Parcels Partnerships at The PayPoint Group, said: “Our CollectPlus service continues to go from strength to strength and I’m incredibly grateful to all of our 10,000 retailer partners in helping us deliver our best ever Christmas. As online shopping continues to grow and consumer behaviour evolves post-Covid, we’re committed to continuing to enhance our service to help our retailer partners respond to these trends and deliver vital community services across the UK.
“2022 will be even bigger again, with more developments, more parcels and more opportunities for retailers to benefit from partnering with CollectPlus in their stores.”
