Gas stations are increasingly becoming small service and logistics hubs. The Westfalen Group and myflexbox are jointly expanding open parcel lockers at gas stations. 19 facilities are already in operation in North Rhine-Westphalia, Lower Saxony, and Hesse. Ten additional locations are being implemented.
"Open" means that the station is not designed for a single parcel service provider only. Depending on connected partners, customers can receive, send, or return shipments from various providers. Access is available around the clock, provided the location itself remains accessible.
Gas stations are attractive for parcel logistics because they are easily accessible and many people pass by them anyway. This makes it possible to combine parcel pickup, refueling, and shopping. In the last mile, consolidated deliveries to a station can replace individual home delivery stops.
However, this is not without effort. Compartments must fit the shipment size, pickup deadlines must be met, and full stations can lead to rerouting. Returns also require correct labels and accurate digital recording.
For drivers, consolidated delivery can save stops, provided access routes and parking areas remain clear.