Evri and Bloq.it Join Forces to Expand UK OOH Parcel Locker Network

Why It Matters

The deal strengthens the UK’s OOH parcel infrastructure, giving consumers quicker, line‑free returns and giving Evri a scalable edge in reverse logistics as online shopping volumes rise.

Key Takeaways

• Evri to install Bloq.it NEXT lockers nationwide
• Drop devices enable instant, line‑free returns
• First rollout begins March 2026 in East England
• Returns value hit £4.2 bn in UK 2023
• Modular lockers match foot‑traffic and parcel mix

Pulse Analysis

The rapid expansion of e‑commerce has outpaced traditional delivery models, creating a pressing need for out‑of‑home (OOH) solutions that handle both forward and reverse logistics. In the UK, consumer returns more than doubled between 2019 and 2025, culminating in a £4.2 billion value in 2023 alone. This surge pressures parcel carriers to invest in infrastructure that can process returns quickly, reduce congestion at retail points, and improve overall customer satisfaction. Smart locker networks, already proven for parcel pick‑up, are now evolving to address the returns bottleneck.

Bloq.it’s partnership with Evri leverages its NEXT locker platform alongside the newly introduced drop device, a dedicated returns unit that can operate independently or within a locker. Drop’s built‑in label printer, QR/barcode scanner, and optimized compartment sizes align with Evri’s parcel mix, cutting return processing time to seconds and allowing couriers to consolidate pickups into single stops. For shoppers, the experience mirrors a quick self‑service checkout, eliminating queues and enhancing convenience. For retailers and businesses, the modular approach frees floor space, drives foot traffic, and provides real‑time data on parcel flow, supporting smarter inventory and staffing decisions.

Strategically, the collaboration positions both firms at the forefront of the UK’s OOH logistics transformation. By deploying scalable, technology‑driven lockers across diverse locations—from high‑traffic retail hubs to previously unreachable sites—Evri can broaden its service offering while controlling operational costs. The partnership also signals to competitors the growing commercial viability of integrated pick‑up and return ecosystems, likely accelerating further investment in smart locker networks across Europe. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, such flexible, end‑to‑end solutions will become a cornerstone of modern parcel delivery.