Royal Mail has successfully reached its target of 90% automation across its parcel operations, marking a major milestone in its ongoing modernisation strategy.
This follows years of investment in state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure by the company, aimed at improving efficiency and customer service.
The upgrades to the company’s operations include the opening of two advanced automated parcel hubs in Warrington and Daventry.
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These hubs are capable of processing up to 1.5 million parcels per day. Additionally, 10 large parcel conveyors have been added to mail centres across the UK to handle bigger parcels, while three new high-speed parcel sortation machines were installed at centres in Leeds, Plymouth, and Exeter. Each of these machines can process an additional 21,000 parcels per hour, boosting the capacity of Royal Mail’s delivery network.
These upgrades have been particularly beneficial during peak periods, such as Christmas, where fast delivery times are in high demand. With automation playing a central role in handling these volumes, Royal Mail has been able to meet the growing need for next-day deliveries.
Earlier this month, the company enhanced its app to allow customers to request proof of postage when dropping off smaller parcels at one of the 115,000 postboxes across the UK.
In late 2023, Royal Mail became the first delivery company in the world to introduce digital tracking on containers used for transporting letters and parcels and these containers are now equipped with tags that transmit live data, including location, humidity, and temperature, as they travel around the country.
Additionally, digital barcodes have been added to postage stamps, enhancing tracking capabilities and reducing counterfeiting.
Alistair Cochrane, Chief Operating Officer of Royal Mail, said: “Reaching 90% automation is a key milestone in our mission to deliver a modern, more efficient Royal Mail.
“We will continue to explore new technologies to enhance our performance and meet the evolving needs of our customers, while also supporting our workforce with cutting-edge technology.”
