Amazon launches new click and collect option with partner stores
Amazon has launched a new collection service called Counter that enables customers to pick up their Amazon parcels in-store at a partner location.
The online retail giant said the new service will see customers being able to access thousands of Counter locations in the UK and Italy.
The service has been piloted with a number of launch partners and will be rolled out throughout 2019, including at hundreds of Next stores in the UK. In Italy, Amazon will be working with Giunti, Fermopoint and SisalPay.
Patrick Supanc, Amazon director of lockers and pickup, said: “With Counter, we’ve used technology to enhance and redesign the click and collect experience.
“We’re excited for customers to experience this service at one of the thousands of stores now available for Counter, but we’re not stopping there.
“We’re now actively looking to bring even more partners onboard across Europe — from family-run corner shops to retail chains — businesses of all sizes can take advantage of the opportunity as we expand the Counter network for customers.”
To use the service, online customers proceed to the Amazon checkout and select a Counter pick up point as their delivery location. As soon as their package arrives at the store, the customer will receive an email notification with a unique barcode. They will also be given the address and opening hours of their selected store, and will have 14 days to collect their parcel.
Lord Wolfson, chief executive of Next, said: “The ability to collect Amazon parcels from hundreds of Next’s UK stores provides a helpful and exciting new service for UK consumers. Amazon Counter combines the internet’s power to offer unprecedented choice with all the convenience of local stores. In a tough retail environment our aim is that Amazon Counter will contribute to the continued relevance and vibrancy of our stores.”
