Evri has invested £32.2 million in UK infrastructure, automation and technology ahead of the Christmas peak trading period as it prepares for a rise in parcel volumes.

The investment forms part of a wider £100 million programme for the current financial year and increases the delivery company's network capacity to 4.9 million parcels a day, around 500,000 more than last year.

Evri said parcel volumes increased by almost 40 per cent during last year's peak period, which includes Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas.

The retailer said it has invested more than £14 million in projects designed to increase network capacity. These include expanding its parcel locker network, upgrading its Barnsley super hub and improving operational technology across its delivery network.

One of the largest projects has been the latest expansion of its Barnsley hub, including a new third-tier operation to increase sorting capacity. The company has also opened a second Barnsley site dedicated to fulfilment and UK Mail operations.

Alongside infrastructure projects, Evri said it has expanded its automation capabilities and continued developing its technology platform. The company has also introduced new hardware across operational sites to improve efficiency and parcel tracking.

Evri said its AI-powered system now checks around 90 million delivery photos each month to help verify successful deliveries.

The company has also invested in technology for employees and couriers, as well as launching a recruitment campaign to hire 7,000 additional community couriers and 3,000 colleagues ahead of the festive season.

Martijn De Lange, chief executive of Evri Group, said the investment programme will help the company build a stronger, smarter and more resilient network.

“Peak is the most important and demanding period of the year for many of our customers,” he added. “Preparing for it isn't something we start in the weeks leading up to Christmas - it's the result of sustained investment, planning and innovation throughout the year to ensure we're ready when it matters most.

“The investments we are making today will help ensure we are ready to support customers through a successful peak while creating the capacity, capability and flexibility needed to support future growth.”

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