UK Delivery Firm Evri Closure Causes Parcel Delays for Customers
Evri, a prominent UK delivery firm, is experiencing significant parcel delays following the unexpected closure of an important delivery partner. This disruption is particularly affecting customers in Oxford, who are facing longer waiting times for their parcels.
Closure of Delivery Partner Affects Evri Customers
Pedal and Post, Evri’s e-cargo bike deliverer, recently ceased operations without prior warning. The company had been responsible for deliveries within Oxford’s Clean Air Zone and also serviced parts of London. Its abrupt shutdown has left many packages stranded in depots, resulting in delays for local residents.
Impact on Customers
Customers like Carol Leonard from Grandpont, Oxford, have encountered significant frustrations. Leonard reported that multiple packages, including specialist cat food and litter ordered in late January, remained undelivered for two weeks. They were only delivered on February 10, causing considerable inconvenience.
Evri acknowledged the disruption caused by its partner’s closure. A spokesperson confirmed that the situation had temporarily affected operations in the area, leading to several delivery hold-ups.
Response from Evri
Despite the challenges, Evri boasts a strong delivery record, handling over 900 million parcels annually with high on-time delivery rates. The company has acted quickly to restructure its operations in the areas impacted by the delivery partner’s closure.
- Evri’s spokesman stated: “We have quickly re-organised deliveries in the area.”
- They confirmed Leonard’s parcel had been delivered following direct contact with her.
Effects on Employees
The closure of Pedal and Post also resulted in job losses for around 60 workers, including both full-time staff and self-employed contractors. The CEO of Pedal and Post, Christopher Benton, commented on the difficulties in ensuring fair employment practices within a predominantly self-employed industry.
In conclusion, the sudden failure of this delivery partner has highlighted vulnerabilities within the logistics sector, impacting both customers awaiting their parcels and the employees of the now-closed e-cargo delivery firm.
