Australia Post has partnered with fulfillment technology provider Doddle to further extend its extensive network of pick-up and drop-off locations.
Australia Post Collect & Return will offer shoppers the choice to collect and return online shopping at a diverse network of locations including post offices, 24/7 parcel lockers, supermarkets, pharmacies and department stores nationwide.
At launch in early 2020, the network of retail partners will include selected IGA supermarkets, Priceline pharmacies, Aventus Group shopping centers and selected assets managed by 151 Property Retail.
The partnership will build on Australia Post’s existing network of over 4,300 Post Offices, parcel lockers in more than 350 locations and 15,500 street post boxes. Customers will be able to select their most convenient location from a map offered in the checkout of the online retailer, with functionality powered by Doddle technology.
Returning items will also be quicker and easier, with shoppers able to register returns online, which will generate a barcode for them to present in-store, without needing to print a label. Post Offices and retail partners scan the customer’s barcode and accept the parcel over the counter, for Australia Post to return.
Australia Post general manager of parcel and express services/intermediaries Ben Franzi said, “We are determined to provide our customers with services that make their online shopping experience seamless and even easier to access. We’re excited to be working with Doddle and retail partners to give customers the flexibility they’ve been after, the ability to collect and return parcels when and where it suits them.”
Potential retail partners and online retailers are currently being invited to express their interest in joining the Australia Post Collect & Return offer.