Hermes UK simplifies returning of purchases for customers

Hermes UK has launched a new returns service that will enable retailers to offer customers a hassle-free way of returning unwanted purchases directly from home. The parcel operator has introduced the solution to offer a
convenient alternative to using Royal Mail or rival services that require a journey to the local post office or collection depot, which in many cases can be several miles away. The consumer-to-business (C2B) returns solution is designed to improve the overall shopping experience by offering doorstep collections that can be quickly and easily organised over the internet, Hermes explained.
The service is available via myHermes.co.uk, the C2C delivery solution that was launched in 2009. A
dedicated returns area has been created for retailers using the service to enable their customers to arrange
a courier collection on a specific day directly from home, a neighbour or a nominated safe place.
As part of the returns service, customers can print a prepared label from the website containing all address
and contact details. This simplifies repackaging and labelling of a parcel. Meanwhile, online tracking is also
available so both the retailer and consumer can monitor the progress of a parcel until it has reached the
returns department.
According to last year’s survey by Hermes “Parcel Deliveries Usage & Attitude”, there is strong demand for a
new type of C2B returns service. 78% of consumers find the idea of organising the collection of unwanted
goods from home or a safe place over internet either very or quite appealing.
Jon Tobbell, Commercial Director of Hermes in the UK, commented: “An effective returns solution can
enhance customer service, resulting in a positive impact on brand loyalty and ultimately contributing to
increased sales. A flexible collection from home that can be arranged online removes much of the hassle
often associated with returning purchases, whilst streamlining the overall returns process for the retailer.”