Amazon launches same-day pick-up service in the UK

Amazon is introducing its first same-day collection service at 500 locations across the UK in collaboration with newspaper distributor Smiths News.

Amazon: brings Pass my Parcel pick-up service to the UK

The service is branded Pass my Parcel and enables customers who order online by 11.45am to collect goods from 4pm on the same day. It is available at more than 500 newsagents and convenience stores, which will carry Pass my Parcel branding.

Customers are notified by email or text message when their order has arrived at their local shop and can collect their parcel up to 11.59pm, depending on the closing time at the location.

Smiths News, a division of Connect Group plc will deliver the packages to locations twice daily. Amazon Prime members will be able to use the service free for a limited introductory period.

Christopher North, managing director of Amazon.co.uk said: "This is our fastest pick-up service yet. We know that Prime customers love fast delivery and the convenience to pick up their order at a time and place that suits them best. This new service brings together both of those great benefits."

The service is available from the 500 locations in the run-up to Christmas, but North said it is the company’s intention to "rapidly add" to the number of pick-up locations.