Texaco adds a Spar-ring partner
Fuel retailer Texaco is set to expand its RelayStar package service after signing a partnership agreement with the Spar convenience chain.
Spar has 2,700 stores in the UK. The pilot outlet is in Didcot, Oxford, which will be followed in the first phase by a further 295 Spar parcel collection points. With Texaco’s service stations, this will increase the RelayStar UK network to more than 1,000 outlets.
The RelayStar service, launched in June, gives businesses and retailers a new channel for package pick-up and return.
Initial clients in the hi-tech field, using the network for spare parts delivery and returns, include IBM, NCR, Logicom and Sabre Supply Management and service stations are handling an average of 20 packages a day.
RelayStar commissioned a report from market researcher Datamonitor to identify potential UK network partners. Spar ranked high on ease of access and parking, long opening hours and secure storage.
Philippe Brasseur, general manager of RelayStar, said: “Spar has an entrepreneurial approach and a highly visible, recognisable brand in the UK.” Chris Davies, retail services executive for Spar, said the agreement would increase traffic to the stores.
“Working alongside Texaco, we can enter the package collection market at no cost while generating income for Spar sites.”
RelayStar’s service includes:
collection point scanning integrated with central system nproactive order tracking via the Internet
customer notification via email, voicemail or SMS
extranet portal offering automated delivery and return administration.
