Royal Mail has announced a significant expansion of its parcel locker network, with a new six-month trial in partnership with the Post Office. The initiative introduces 24/7 self-service lockers outside selected branches across the UK, allowing customers to collect or return parcels beyond regular opening hours.
At the same time, Royal Mail is urging the public to remain cautious following the circulation of widespread phishing scams impersonating the company. The fraudulent messages, sent via email and text, attempt to extract payment or personal information under the guise of missed deliveries.
A New Phase in Royal Mail’s Delivery Network
The rollout of 24/7 lockers is part of Royal Mail’s wider strategy to accommodate changing customer habits, particularly the increasing reliance on online shopping and resale marketplaces. The trial will see parcel lockers installed outside selected Post Office branches, enabling customers to access services even when branches are closed.
Anna Malley, Director of Partnerships and Acquisitions at Royal Mail, described the move as “an exciting step forward” in collaboration with the Post Office, adding that it reflects Royal Mail’s commitment to providing flexible options without eliminating traditional services. Neill O’Sullivan, Director of Mails and Parcels at the Post Office, highlighted the ongoing evolution of the companies’ 370-year partnership, noting that lockers offer a modern solution for customers seeking greater flexibility.
This development builds on Royal Mail’s earlier partnership with Sainsbury’s, which saw the introduction of parcel lockers across stores nationwide. The postal service now offers more than 24,000 drop-off and collection points, including over 2,400 lockers, 11,500 Post Office branches, and nearly 8,000 Royal Mail shops. Lockers also offer label printing services, allowing users to scan a QR code to send or return items without needing a printer at home.
New Scam Warnings Issued to UK Households
While Royal Mail’s infrastructure expands, the organisation is contending with a surge in phishing scams that exploit its brand identity. The company has issued a new warning to all UK households concerning two separate scams designed to trick individuals into revealing personal information or making fraudulent payments.
The first scam involves text and email messages informing recipients that a package requires a small fee, often £2.99, before it can be delivered. The messages include links to convincing but fake websites, claiming “actions will be taken” if the payment is not made. The second scam, flagged by Action Fraud, involves emails claiming that a parcel could not be delivered, followed by a request for sensitive personal and financial details. These include full card numbers, security codes, and even the recipient’s mother’s maiden name.
Royal Mail has stated that it never sends unsolicited emails requesting credit card information or personal data. It also does not include attachments unless a customer has specifically requested them. The company emphasises that customers should only submit information via official Royal Mail platforms and remain cautious of any message asking for payment or personal details.
Action Fraud has received more than 1,700 reports of the scams in just one week, prompting authorities to ask the public to forward suspicious messages to [email protected] for investigation and takedown. Despite recent technological advancements, Royal Mail’s warnings serve as a reminder that convenience must be matched with vigilance. As the company continues modernising its services, the risk of cyber deception remains a pressing concern for millions of UK residents.
