Hermes, the leading consumer delivery company, has finalised the roll-out of its new app that enables retailers to deliver an enhanced consumer experience. This new innovation provides online shoppers with increased visibility, as well as more choice and control over how they receive their parcels.
Available on both iOS and Android platforms, the Hermes app allows users to track and/or divert their parcels in real-time via their smartphones, as well as receive notifications on the current progress of their deliveries. Currently, consumers have the option to re-route their deliveries to a neighbour or a safe place whilst the parcel is in transit – with further options such as diverting to a ParcelShop or locker set to be added later this year. In addition, those online shoppers looking to return items will be able to do so more easily via their devices. They will be able to book a return in a few clicks, before receiving the relevant QR code and order numbers.
The app will also provide greater convenience for consumers sending or returning parcels that don’t have easy access to a printer. Users will simply be able to scan the QR code generated by the app to print labels in a ParcelShop, rather than using a printer at home.
The app will also be vital to the roll-out of Hermes Play later this year, which enables the sender of a parcel to connect with its recipient through a personal video message. The sender will be able to record and upload a file via the app, which can be accessed by scanning a 2D barcode upon delivery.
Meanwhile, sole traders, online marketplace sellers and consumers looking to send parcels will be able to use the app to book deliveries. Users can simply navigate the menus to pick a recipient from their address book, and generate the shipping labels, before arranging a courier collection or dropping off at a ParcelShop.
The roll-out and ongoing development of the Hermes app – which has been previously trialled on iOS platforms before also being made available to Android users – forms part of the company’s Digital Futures strategy, which is supporting Hermes’ mission to become the UK’s carrier of choice by 2021.
Chris Ashworth, CIO at Hermes, said: “Our dedicated team of innovators and specialist developers are continuing to shape the future of home deliveries by creating a wave of new and exciting products. This app provides a foundation for many of these new features, which are designed to drive a greater customer experience for our retail clients.”
