FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express company, has announced an extension of services through an alliance with PayPoint (FTSE:PAY.L). FedEx is expanding its services with Collect+, the UK’s largest independent store-based delivery and returns service.
With the expansion, FedEx will provide returns collection services at almost 4,000 stores across the UK. Recipients in the UK can return eligible items by simply placing the returns label on the package and dropping it off at one of the participating Collect+ stores. For now, this service is only available for UK domestic drop off, with international returns planned for the near future. This is in addition to the current service, which allows recipients who know they will not be home to redirect their parcel to a participating Collect+ store to collect at a time convenient to them.
The UK has experienced a surge in e-commerce orders and shipments during the COVID-19 pandemic. This rise in demand for online shopping is expected to continue; according to a study commissioned by global commerce services company PFS, 77% of those shopping more online due to the pandemic expect to continue this purchasing behavior post-lockdown.[1] By extending this alliance with Collect+, FedEx offers customers even more flexibility during their parcel service experience.
“We’re delighted to extend our strategic alliance with Collect+ to meet the ever-growing need for more convenient, secure and safe pickup and drop off locations across the UK,” said Norm Jaschinski, Managing Director, Regional Marketing Europe, FedEx Express. “Supporting businesses, and particularly small businesses, as they continue to serve their customers in the current climate is essential, and the expansion of this alliance is just one more way FedEx can help.”
Ben Ford, Retail Services Director at PayPoint, said: “Our extended alliance with FedEx Express further cements our mission to become the UK’s foremost provider of PUDO (pick up and drop off) services. We look forward to building on this successful alliance with FedEx Express as we continue to respond and adapt to customer demand.”
