Hermes launches Innovation Lab
Consumer delivery specialist Hermes has launched an Innovation Lab in Leeds which will focus on developing new delivery solutions. Hermes said that the Leeds facility will aim to “create a range of forward-thinking services and build prototypes of products that will change the delivery landscape”.
Initial projects being worked upon include self-tracking parcels, intelligent delivery using location-based services and new tracking experiences using digital personal assistants.
A key objective of the Innovation Lab will be to explore how Hermes can integrate emerging technologies with smart devices.
Hermes is looking to work together with the UK’s leading universities, and said it will offer “the next generation of engineers the chance to utilise the Innovation Lab and its facilities”.
David Turner will head up a four-strong team as the company’s Head of Digital Strategy & Technology Innovation.
“We will think outside of the box to create the next jaw-dropping innovations across the delivery sector, from self-tracking parcels to 3D printing and autonomous delivery,” said Turner. “We look forward to delivering a portfolio of advanced solutions that will benefit both our retail clients and the millions of online shoppers across the UK.”
As a part of its remit, the team will also look to create a dedicated Innovation Centre within Hermes’ automated parcel distribution hub currently under construction in Rugby.
Carole Woodhead, CEO of Hermes, said: “It is absolutely critical that both retailers and their delivery partners prioritise innovation to continually improve customer experience.”
