UK parcel theft costs shoppers £667m yearly
Parcel theft losses hit £666.5 million last year, leading more consumers to use local collection points for security.
Parcel theft in the UK cost consumers £666.5 million last year. This figure represents a significant increase from the approximately £377 million reported the year before, according to new research from Collect+.
More than two-thirds of UK consumers have encountered delivery problems. Specifically, 67 percent have experienced issues including missing or stolen packages.
Security is now a primary factor in how people receive their goods. One in twelve consumers cites parcel security as their main concern when arranging a delivery.
The shift to collection points
Parcel shops are becoming a favoured solution. Seventy-three percent of consumers report having used a local collection point. This usage is even higher among younger adults, with 79 percent of those aged 25 to 34 opting for this method.
Sam Holden, director of parcels and ecommerce at PayPoint, commented on the trend. "Security is front of mind for many shoppers, particularly when deliveries are left unattended," Holden said. "Parcel shops give consumers reassurance that their parcels are being held safely until they are ready to collect them."
Consumer demands for convenience
While security drives the change, convenience remains crucial. A vast majority of online shoppers value flexible delivery options. Eighty-seven percent say having a choice of delivery and collection methods matters to them.
Location is also key. Eighty-eight percent of consumers consider proximity to their home or workplace important when selecting a place to collect, return, or send parcels.
Holden emphasized that modern delivery needs must adapt to busy lives. "Customers want delivery options that fit around their lives, whether that means collecting on the way home from work or returning an online purchase at the weekend," he stated.
The role of retail networks
Extensive retail networks are facilitating this shift. PayPoint notes that its nationwide network of partner retailers provides the necessary local infrastructure. These locations enable secure parcel collection and returns close to where people live and work.
The data suggests a clear consumer move away from unattended doorstep deliveries. The rising financial impact of theft is accelerating the adoption of more secure alternatives. Retailers and parcel services are responding by expanding accessible collection point options.
