Fresh produce veteran John Smith has launched a new business that offers secure home delivery postboxes to respond to the “burgeoning” e-commerce sector.
Internet Post Box offers consumers three sizes of secure delivery box options, with a combination lock that can be added to online shopping orders.
Smith, who was previously longstanding chairman of mushroom suppliers Northern Produce and Greyfriars, said the concept was born after he identified a need to facilitate online shopping.
The box is specifically designed to fit a tray of groceries from the top four retailers, as well as from box scheme company Riverford Organic.
“We created this item based on a full survey of what else is in the marketplace. It has all the attributes that an online grocery shopper needs,” said Smith, adding that other models in the market are often high-cost units made from steel and using digital locks.
Smith said that he has already briefed one top four retailer, with a long-term vision that supermarkets will see the benefit to a tailored online grocery delivery solution, and promote or sell the product to their shoppers.
“It’s really the missing piece of the jigsaw of online shopping,” he added.
As well as shopping, the Internet Post Box can also be used to receive deliveries of farm equipment or machinery, which would benefit farmers or growers who would typically have to return to the house to sign for a delivery.
Its specifications are designed to meet the demand of modern online shoppers including the ability to receive, and return, parcels securely without needing to be present, use of a combination lock rather than digital lock or key, and an easy-to-use opening system.
It is produced in China and sent out to customers as a kit for installation. Retail prices start from £69, with added delivery costs.
