03.12.13
Parcel collection service to launch across rail network
Network Rail is to test a parcel collection and delivery service at its mainline stations. The concept will be tested at Milton Keynes Central station, followed by trials at London Paddington and Woking, with other stations to follow throughout 2014.
The service, Doddle, will be run through shops open seven days a week and will create up to 4,000 new jobs. Passengers will be able to collect, return and send parcels, with notifications through an app, SMS and email.
Robin Gisby, managing director, network operations, said: “More people are travelling by rail than ever before and stations have become more than just a place to wait for, or get off a train. We’ve adapted to what passengers want and need by offering quality retail, food and drink at our biggest stations such as King's Cross and Manchester Piccadilly and this is a natural next step to help passengers and station users whose lives are increasingly busy and on the move.
“With 2,500 stations nationwide and passengers making over 1.4 billion rail journeys every year we have the potential to create an unrivalled parcel delivery and collection service to meet the needs of rail users and those living near to stations.”
Peter Louden, project director, said: “Our initial conversations with both leading retailers and carriers have been extremely positive with many indicating a desire to become an early adopter. They are excited by the fantastic locations and the guaranteed footfall which is expected to increase by 30% by 2020.”
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