Smiths News has entered the parcel delivery sector with a new click and collect service fulfilled via independent retail outlets.

The news wholesaler’s Pass My Parcel service launches with Amazon as its first partner. By using Smiths’ news distribution network, parcels can be delivered to stores twice-daily and seven days a week, meaning that shoppers can receive their Amazon parcel as little as 12 hours after ordering via a premium service, or collect it on a Sunday during store opening hours.

Twelve of Smiths News’ 43 depots are operating the service, and the company believes that up to 1,000 local stores could be available as parcelshop collection points before Christmas.

Connect News & Media managing director Jonathan Bunting said: “We are delighted with the progress we have made on our diversification strategy over the last 12 months. We have worked closely with Amazon to create Pass My Parcel, and we are excited about the future potential of this business.

“We believe that Pass My Parcel will also help our retail customers grow their own business by offering an important new service to the communities they serve.”

Retailers who would like more information on Pass My Parcel should call 0845 124 0255.