THE UK OTC PUDO SOLUTION IN A CHANGING LANDSCAPE: WHY RETAIL-FOCUSED NETWORKS MATTER MORE THAN EVER BEFORE

The Last Mile logistics sector continues to evolve rapidly, with significant implications for how PUDO services are delivered. In the past 8 months alone, we’ve seen a dramatic shift in how carriers and logistics providers approach the over the counter (OTC) PUDO model. This change has largely been driven by a series of structural developments, including high-profile acquisitions, strategic realignments, and network consolidations. 

Recent changes in the UK market, like the new partnership between DHL and Evri, and InPost’s acquisition of Yodel, show how delivery networks are consolidating. For example, the DHL- Evri partnership is likely about combining strengths to offer both scale and speed, which could mean fewer independent options for parcel pick-up and drop-off in some areas as they streamline their own services. This might also push other carriers to rethink their own networks. 

Similarly, InPost’s acquisition of Yodel connects one of the UK’s biggest automated locker providers with a major carrier. As some companies focus more on lockers or their own branded shops, there’s a risk that customers who prefer over-the-counter services could have fewer choices. These shifts make it even more important to keep flexible, carrier-agnostic options available for both retailers and customers who value convenience and personal service. 

This realignment is reshaping the PUDO landscape, creating gaps in OTC provision and limiting service continuity for carriers, retailers, and end customers. It’s also forcing businesses to rethink how they enable out-of-home (OOH) delivery and returns in a way that remains cost-efficient, scalable, and above all, customer centric. All this making a multi-3P strategy to meet operational needs, a market standard in 2025. 

But shouldn’t flexibility be central to any modern First and Last Mile delivery strategy? Parcelly enables national and international carriers and e-commerce brands to leverage high street retailers to deploy and manage fully customisable OTC PUDO networks, without being tied to fixed infrastructure or single-carrier limitations. 

As an independent and carrier agnostic platform, Parcelly fills the service gap left by these UK industry shifts. The growing network of PUDO location partners provides nationwide coverage with over 4,500 stores in the UK, Ireland, and Germany, spanning both urban and suburban locations. This offers true convenience for customers and increased footfall for local businesses. OTC PUDO solutions also remain vital in areas where locker installations are less viable or where consumers still value face-to-face interaction. 

OTC PUDO solutions continue to thrive because they benefit the entire supply chain. By partnering with Parcelly, high street retailers unlock new revenue opportunities and greater in-store engagement, while carriers gain improved first-attempt delivery rates and a broader service footprint, all without the need for additional infrastructure. 

As the market consolidates, Parcelly’s hybrid, tech-enabled approach empowers everyone in the delivery journey. We help carriers adapt to rising consumer expectations, increasing parcel volumes, and the growing demand for sustainable, resilient delivery models.  

If you're looking for a flexible OTC PUDO license or need to enhance your out-of-home delivery capabilities, speak to our team today at partnerships@parcelly.com