Bloq.it, a leading smart locker provider, has announced a strategic partnership with GLS to support their parcel locker network across Europe. The initiative will start with Italy and Spain using the new NEXT autonomous Locker solution.
The initial pilot is set to launch in March 2025 and is part of GLS’s plan to significantly grow its locker network across major European markets in the coming years.
The agreement was finalized at the recent Parcel+Post Expo in Amsterdam, where both companies shared their vision to boost the use of Smart Lockers in last-mile logistics. Bloq.it’s advanced NEXT Locker will help GLS rapidly expand its locker network in key markets.
Miha Jagodic, CEO at Bloq.it says this partnership marks a significant step forward in the company’s mission to accelerate the adoption of out of home deliveries in the last-mile.
Key features of the GLS-Bloq.it partnership
GLS already has over 90,000 out-of-home (OOH) points across Europe, including Parcel Shops and Smart Lockers.
With their new strategy, GLS plans to significantly grow this number in the coming years, expanding their Parcel Locker fleet and leading the sector.
Here are the key features of the partnership:
- Enhanced service and operations: This partnership is set to boost service levels and operational efficiency for the GLS network.
- Faster network growth: Deploying Bloq.it’s NEXT Smart Lockers enables GLS to expand their network at an accelerated pace.
- Flexible, off-grid solution: NEXT lockers are off-grid, broadening the range of potential installation locations.
- Quick deployment: Lockers can be set up within minutes, supporting rapid expansion in key markets.
Benefits of parcel lockers
In recent months, parcel lockers have become increasingly popular. Here are some benefits of these lockers.
- Cost efficiency: Operating parcel lockers can be more cost-effective than home delivery. They reduce the need for multiple delivery attempts if recipients are not home, saving fuel and labor costs.
- 24/7 accessibility: Parcel lockers provide customers with the flexibility to pick up their packages at any time, which is more convenient for the customer and reduces the logistical burden on delivery services during peak hours.
- Reduced last-mile delivery challenges: The last mile of delivery is the most expensive and complex logistics chain. Parcel lockers help minimize these issues by centralizing deliveries to convenient locations.
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Photo Credit: Canva
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About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
