Woolworths Granville introduces pick-up locker
Demand for click and collect shopping in a western Sydney suburb has led a major supermarket chain to install a convenient pick-up locker that cuts out the need to enter the store.
Parramatta
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Woolworths at Granville has been selected as the first supermarket to have a contactless pick-up locker after a growing number of shoppers have shown a penchant for the click and collect during COVID-19.
The refrigerated locker, which is installed at the supermarket’s Louis St carpark, started operating last week and can hold dozens of orders.
The 10sq m locker allows customers to pick up their online order quickly from the carpark without entering the supermarket, which is one of four in the state where they will be established.
After placing an online order and selecting a pick up time, customers are sent a passcode which offers secure access for collection.
When they drive to the store, they enter their code at the locker and the order will be dispensed by the automated unit for collection within seconds.
Woolworths format development director Rob McCartney said the demand was strong in Granville and the technology saved consumers time and effort, and reduced congestion.
“Demand for pick-up has more than doubled at our Granville store this year as local customers have looked to save time or limit their outings,’’ he said.
“While lockers aren’t an entirely new concept in Australian retail, offering the full suite of fresh, frozen and dry grocery at the one remote collection point is.
“The units are equipped with temperature control technology to uphold product freshness and comply with food safety regulations.’’
The Granville locker operates from 9am to 9pm. Oversized and restricted items (such as cigarettes) are available to purchase in-store.
Woolworths plans to roll out lockers at three other stores in the next three months.