UPS expands network with OOHPod and other smart locker providers

Tuesday November 21st 2023 - Press Release from UPS UK & Ireland

UPS strengthen UK and Ireland network with the addition of 700 new UPS Access Point locations.

UPS has expanded its network through smart locker providers Quadient and OOHPod to offer even more choice. Paypoint and Parcelly stores will also join the network in the UK, with the addition of Parcel Direct in Ireland, all with the aim of offering increased shipping and collection services.

UPS will open 300 new locations for deliveries and collection around Ireland. The courier service said it is launching its UPS Access Point network here, partnering with OOHPod and Parcel Direct. It said it will have 100 self-service lockers and 200 staffed shops located across Ireland. It also has over 35,600 across Europe. Locations across Ireland are expected to increase by around 500 by the end of 2024, it added.

Recipients can request packages to be delivered to their nearest location while they are away – providing a secure out-of-home alternative to leaving packages in a safe place. Then at the earliest convenience, collect from the locker at any time, or during opening hours at the chosen shop. From returns to e-commerce goods, shippers can also take advantage of daily collections from the stores and lockers, reducing the need to arrange at-home driver collection.

UPS President, UK, Ireland, Nordics & India, Ufku Akaltan, noted that "the expansion of the UPS Access Point network demonstrates our commitment to develop and deploy solutions that provide customers even more convenient options. Our goal is to continue fostering efficient and sustainable practices, providing alternative delivery locations for recipients, and simplifying supply chains for shippers".

“Our goal is to continue fostering efficient and sustainable practices, providing alternative delivery locations for recipients, and simplifying supply chains for shippers.”- Ufku Akaltan

The Access Point network expansion is part of UPS’s plan to reduce emissions in its ground operations. The network enables a more efficient service closer to the communities where customers live and work, decreasing the need for return visits for redeliveries. This helps to reduce multiple trips for deliveries – and some studies show that delivering to an alternative delivery location rather than a residence can reduce carbon emissions by more than 30%.

OOHPod customers can find their nearest UPS Access point by checking our locations page or via the UPS website here.

Further reading: Blog - Using OOHPod lockers with UPS Access Point

Related articles:

• https://fleet.ie/ups-access-point-launches-in-ireland-to-increase-convenience-for-customers/
• https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/1121/1417671-ups-access-point-launches-in-ireland/
• https://postandparcel.info/154502/news/e-commerce/ups-demonstrates-commitment-to-provide-customers-even-more-convenient-options/