Did you know picking up your parcel from one of our lockers is the single biggest sustainable difference you can make to your online shopping? At OOHPod we love to bring you fresh ideas and new ways to make your online shopping deliveries easy, greener and as flexible as your busy life demands. 

A hub of activity for all things from parcel lockers to last mile with something for everyone - big business, small business and shoppers alike!

Blog Home | A Blog On All Things Parcel Locker & Last Mile | OOHPod - Self Service Parcel Lockers Ireland

In a world where convenience is key, parcel lockers have emerged as a game changer in simplifying parcel delivery and collection processes. Among these, OOHPod parcel lockers stand out for their innovative features and user friendly design. If you're still on the fence about adopting this modern solution, here are five reasons why OOHPod should be your top choice! 

OOHPod parcel lockers offer a seamless delivery experience for both senders and recipients. OOHPod lockers are strategically placed in accessible locations such as residential complexes, office buildings, and retail centres, to make sending and receiving parcels effortless. Couriers can securely drop off parcels in designated lockers, eliminating the hassle of missed deliveries or lost parcels. Recipients, on the other hand, receive instant notifications and can retrieve their parcels at their convenience.

Privacy and security are paramount when it comes to parcel deliveries. OOHPod lockers prioritise both aspects, ensuring that your parcels are safe until you're ready to collect them. Equipped with security features such as locking mechanisms and surveillance cameras, OOHPod lockers deter theft and unauthorised access. Say goodbye to porch piracy- with OOHPod, your parcels remain confidential and secure until you retrieve them.

In today's fast paced world, time is of the essence. OOHPod recognise the value of your time and offer ultimate convenience. No more waiting around for delivery windows or rearranging your schedule to accommodate courier visits. With OOHPod, you can collect your parcels whenever it suits you. This time saving convenience empowers you to reclaim control over your schedule and focus on what truly matters. 

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in every aspect of our lives, including parcel delivery. OOHPod lockers champion environmental responsibility by reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional doorstep deliveries. By consolidating multiple deliveries into centralised locations, OOHPod lockers minimise the need for individual courier trips, therefore lowering fuel consumption and air pollution. 

Whether it's a residential complex, office building, or retail centre, OOHPod lockers are highly scalable and adaptable to various environments and usage scenarios. As the demand for e-commerce continues to grow, OOHPod lockers offer a flexible solution that can easily accommodate changing needs and volumes of deliveries. 

In a world where convenience reigns supreme, OOHPod parcel lockers emerge as the ultimate solution for simplifying parcel delivery and pickup processes. From seamless delivery experiences to enhanced security, time-saving convenience, eco-friendliness, and flexibility, OOHPod offers a variety of benefits that cater to the needs of consumers and businesses alike. By choosing OOHPod, you're not just embracing innovation – you're embracing a safer, more efficient way of managing your parcels.

If you're still on the fence about adopting this modern solution, here are five reasons why OOHPod should be your top choice! 

Blog | 5 Reasons to Use OOHPod parcel lockers | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

Unlocking Convenience - 5 Reasons to Use OOHPod Lockers

Effortless Returns Made Simple with OOHPod Parcel Lockers

Returning items has never been more convenient, thanks to our partnership with UPS and Yodel in Northern Ireland, and UPS in the Republic of Ireland. 

With OOHPod's smart parcel lockers, the process is as easy as "scan, drop off, and go."
Read on to find out how easy it is to return items.  


If you are using Yodel to return an item, read our step by step instructions on Sending Parcels with Yodel and head to your nearest parcel locker with your labelled return. Scan the barcode on the label and follow the instructions on screen.

For UPS returns, use the returns label provided or head to UPS.com to buy a label. For step by step instructions, check out our guide to using OOHPod Lockers as UPS Access Points®. Once your parcel is ready and labelled, head to your nearest locker, scan the barcode on the label and follow the instructions on screen. 


We are integrated with UPS for returns in the Republic of Ireland. Use the returns label provided or head to UPS.com to buy a label. For step by step instructions, check out our guide to using OOHPod Lockers as UPS Access Points®. Once your parcel is ready and labelled, head to your nearest locker, scan the barcode on the label and follow the instructions on screen.


With OOHPod parcel lockers and our reliable carrier partners, returning items is no longer a chore. Embrace the simplicity of "scan, drop off, and go" for a seamless and eco-friendly return experience.

If you have any questions about returns or need support, talk to our friendly customer service team at https://help.oohpod.com today!

OOHPod offers integrated returns with UPS and Yodel (Collect+), making online returns seamless

Blog | OOHPod Simplified Returns with UPS and Yodel | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

OOHPod offers integrated returns with UPS and Yodel, making online returns seamless

OOHPod simplifies returns with UPS & Yodel

Smart parcel locker service OOHPod has raised €5.4m in new funding.

The latest round, which brings total funding raised to date to €8.5m, was led by Business Venture Partners (BVP) through the 2022 BVP EII Fund and Themvar Holdings UC (Themvar). Several high-net-worth individuals also participated.

We’re not just expanding our network; we’re redefining sustainability, convenience, and security in parcel delivery - John Tuohy, CEO OOHPod

Pictured below (L-R): Johnny Cosgrove, Michael Murray, John Tuohy, Stephen Burdock, Garrett Thornton and Elliott Griffin.

The new funds will primarily be used to develop OOHPod’s self-service parcel locker network in Ireland and Northern Ireland and launch in Great Britain, and to further develop the digital advertising offering on the OOHPod kiosks. 

With the new funding, OOHPod plans to expand its footprint to 350 locations in Ireland, North and South, over the next two years. 

The company is set to create 10 new jobs in IT development, marketing, and various operational roles. The company currently employs 12 people.


Launched in 2022 by John Tuohy following the sale of his Nightline courier business and its locker arm Parcel Motel, OOHPod parcel lockers are designed with sustainability, convenience, and security in mind.

Unlike other locker providers, shoppers can have their parcel delivered straight to an OOHPod locker, no matter who the delivery provider is.

Tuohy said the investment marks a pivotal moment for OOHPod.

“It’s a testament to our team’s hard work and the innovative solution we’ve brought to the market. With this funding, we’re poised to significantly expand and improve our network across Ireland and Northern Ireland and prepare for our much-anticipated entry into the UK.”

Since launching in 2022, OOHPod has rapidly grown, currently boasting over 110 self-service parcel lockers and a pipeline of over 500 sites located at key retailers like Lidl, Tesco, and leading independent outlets across Ireland and Northern Ireland. 

“The support from our investors, including BVP, Themvar, and others, is a huge vote of confidence in our vision to revolutionise the parcel delivery experience,” Tuohy added.

“We’re not just expanding our network; we’re redefining sustainability, convenience, and security in parcel delivery.”

https://businessplus.ie/ma/funding/locker-company-oohpod-raises-over-e5m/

https://www.thinkbusiness.ie/articles/oohpod-funding-smart-parcels-expansion/

https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/investors-go-ooh-over-parcel-motel-founder-john-touhys-latest-venture/

https://www.siliconrepublic.com/business/ecommerce-john-tuohy-nightline-oohpod

https://www.dcadvisory.com/news-deals-insights/deal-announcements/dc-advisory-advises-oohpod-on-its-series-a-fundraise-from-a-syndicate-of-institutional-investors-and-family-offices/#gref

Smart parcel locker service OOHPod, led by ex Parcel Motel and Nightline founder John Tuohy, has raised €5.4m in new funding.

Blog | OOHPod Raises €5.4m in Funding | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

Smart parcel locker service OOHPod, led by ex Parcel Motel and Nightline founder John Tuohy,  raises €5.4m in new funding

The holiday season is upon us, and there's magic in the air! As we gear up to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, finding the ideal gifts for our loved ones can be a joyful yet daunting task. Fear not! OOHPod is here to sprinkle some holiday cheer with the ultimate gift guide, there is something for everybody to make your Christmas shopping a breeze.

Are you living in ROI and want to take advantage of customs and excise free purchases? Well, make sure you order UK originating items to a Northern Ireland locker, or our handy Jonesborough ParcelShop. It's only 50 mins from Dublin airport and we will keep your package safe for 48 hours! 


Firstly for ROI shoppers, here are some amazing Irish businesses with a lot to offer this Christmas! If you haven't signed up to OOHPod yet, head over to our homepage and choose the plan that suits you! 

*please note, all prices accurate as of Dec 13th 2023. OOHPod is not affiliated with below retailers.


Peachylean - This festive season, give the gift of fitness, comfort, and style to your loved ones. Whether they're fitness enthusiasts, yoga lovers, or simply enjoy comfortable activewear, peachylean.com has something special for everyone. They have a range of athleisure wear and accessories including beanies, notebooks or tote bags and a fantastic range of gift sets and bundles so you will definitely find something that suits everyone. The Yogi gift bundle was €123.88 now €50. Shop here.

WoofStuff - Pets hold a special place in our hearts so why not treat them this Christmas with a special gift from woofstuff.ie. They have a range of handmade dog bandanas starting from 9 euro, bow ties starting from €12, and low fat dog treats for €3.99. Dog Bandana Christmas Tartan Pom Poms by Woof Stuff Dublin Ireland: €14. Shop here.

Betty and Biddy -  discover the perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas from bettyandbiddy.com. With a collection of amazing jewellery designed in Dublin for mum, sister, best friend, auntie or even a friend from work, there is truly something for everyone. Máthair Star Disc Necklace: €24. Shop here.

Dyson - Dyson airwrap from dyson.co.uk, The one that everyone is wanting to get their hands on! This is the ultimate gift for effortless hair styling, equipped with a multi styler and storage case. It is available in 3 different colours to make that special someone's styling dreams come true this Christmas. Dyson Airwrap multi-styler and dryer Complete Long in Nickel/Copper: £399.99. Shop here.

Argos - Nintendo switch set with 32GB switch console, Joy-Con and Nintendo switch sports from Argos.co.uk. With three modes in one, TV Mode - Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Tabletop Mode - Flip the stand to share the screen, then share the fun with a multiplayer game. Handheld Mode - Pick it up and play with the Joy-Con controllers attached. It's the perfect gift for every game enthusiast to play at home or on the go! Nintendo Switch Sports Set with 32GB Switch Console & Joy-Con, Neon Red & Blue, & Nintendo Switch Sports: £259.99. Shop here.

Asos - As seen on tiktok, the trending Sol de Janeiro body mist. Elevate your gifting game with this jet set from Asos.com which includes a cream, shower gel, and a Brazilian Crush body fragrance mist in a zip top gift box. Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Jet Set: £28.00. Shop here.

Boots - Discover the perfect gift for him with this amazing deal from boots.com. This Paco Rabanne Invictus gift set includes a 50ml Eau de Toilette, 100ml Shower Gel, and a 10ml Travel Spray. Paco Rabanne Invictus EDT 50ml Shower Gel 100ml Travel Spray 10ml Gift Set: £59.00. Shop here.

Give me cosmetics - give the gift of luscious locks with this full haircare set from givemecosmetics.com. This set is amazing value for money and includes; shampoo and conditioner, a hair mask, detangling brush, heat defence spray, hair repair cream, and a hair serum. The full haircare set worth £71 now £22.50. Shop here.

Footlocker - Give the gift of comfort and style this festive season with these trending classic mini platform uggs from schuh.co,uk. Available in different colours and sizes these make the perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas. Classic mini platform boots: £170.00. Shop here.

Lifestyle sports - Looking for the perfect stylish, athleisure wear? Look no further than this Gym and Coffee half zip fleece from lifestylesports.com. Perfect for chilly autumn- winter walks and coffee runs, available in different colours and sizes it makes the perfect gift for anyone on your list that loves comfortable activewear. Gym and coffee women's half zip polar fleece: €65. Shop here.

Pestle and mortar - This Christmas pamper your loved ones (or yourself!) with the ultimate self-care essentials for a glowing complexion! This face rescue kit makes the perfect gift from pestleandmortar.com including a face cream, a facial cleanser, and a pack of 48 spot dots. With three full sized products it's amazing value for money this Christmas! Pestle and mortar essentials face rescue kit: €29. Shop here.

Argos - This Christmas gift the joy of healthier cooking and delicious meals with this Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone air fryer from argos.co.uk. The ultimate kitchen sidekick that turns every dish into a flavorful, guilt-free delight, with the large 9.5 litre capacity air fryer that cooks 2 foods, 2 ways, and finishes at the same time. Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone AF400UK 9.5L Air Fryer - Black: £180.00. Shop here.

Our ultimate, last minute gift guide for the perfect gifts for you and your family. All available to send to our smart parcel lockers

Blog | Ultimate Last Minute Gift Guide | OOHPod - Your Out of Home Flexible Address

Meet the Online Shopping Expert
Meet Orla Sheils, the COO of OOHPod. With a decade of experience at the helm of Parcel Motel, and a self-proclaimed shopaholic who does 90% of her shopping online, Orla is the go-to expert for savvy online shopping advice.

Orla's Top 10 Christmas Shopping Tips
Get ready to tackle your Christmas shopping list with Orla's expert tips. She's here to guide you on how to save money, find those elusive items, and ease the stress of the holiday season. Let's dive into her top tips:

Expand your shopping horizons beyond Ireland. As an OOHPod subscriber, you can save an average of 30% on UK sites. For example, an item costing £100 on the UK Marks & Spencer site might be €140 on the Irish site. Use an OOHPod Northern Ireland address to access UK-exclusive brands like Debenhams and John Lewis, while avoiding customs fees.

Beware of deceptive social media ads. Use CheckMyLink Ireland to verify the legitimacy of websites before making purchases.

Prevent spoiled surprises by having your parcels delivered to an OOHPod locker. Collect your gifts at your convenience, away from curious eyes at home.

When shopping from the UK, keep an eye on the exchange rates. Recent fluctuations in British Pounds can impact your purchasing power.

Include Your OOH ID® for Smooth Deliveries  

Always use your OOH ID® in your shipping address to ensure your parcels are promptly identified and delivered without delays.

Consider Second-Hand Gifts for Sustainability

Explore eBay and Vinted for unique, second-hand gifts. Often, these items are like new and available at a fraction of the retail price.

Try Before You Buy at OOHPod’s Fitting Room  

Use the fitting room at OOHPod in Jonesborough to try on clothes and decide on the spot, avoiding the hassle of returns.

Familiarise yourself with return policies before purchasing. The OOHPod Store in Jonesborough can assist with returns for Collect+ and UPS Access Point partners.

Send gifts to the UK affordably as an OOHPod subscriber. Enjoy reduced postage rates starting from £2.79.

Plan for Longer Transit Times During Holidays  

Expect delays during November and December. Add extra days to the estimated delivery times and track your parcels using the provided tracking numbers.

With these tips, you're ready to shop smarter. Sign up for an OOHPod plan and start saving now!

Orla's Top 10 Christmas Shopping Tips. Get ready to tackle your Christmas shopping list with Orla's expert tips. She's here to guide you on how to save money, find those elusive items, and ease the stress of the holiday season. 

Blog | How to Shop with OOHPod for Christmas 2023 | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

Our COO Orla is here to guide you on how to save money, find those elusive items, and ease the stress of the holiday season. 

Our Top Tips for Christmas Shopping with OOHPod in 2023

Tuesday November 21st 2023 - Press Release from UPS UK & Ireland


UPS strengthen UK and Ireland network with the addition of 700 new UPS Access Point locations.

UPS has expanded its network through smart locker providers Quadient and OOHPod to offer even more choice. Paypoint and Parcelly stores will also join the network in the UK, with the addition of Parcel Direct in Ireland, all with the aim of offering increased shipping and collection services.

UPS will open 300 new locations for deliveries and collection around Ireland. The courier service said it is launching its UPS Access Point network here, partnering with OOHPod and Parcel Direct. It said it will have 100 self-service lockers and 200 staffed shops located across Ireland. It also has over 35,600 across Europe. Locations across Ireland are expected to increase by around 500 by the end of 2024, it added.

Recipients can request packages to be delivered to their nearest location while they are away – providing a secure out-of-home alternative to leaving packages in a safe place. Then at the earliest convenience, collect from the locker at any time, or during opening hours at the chosen shop. From returns to e-commerce goods, shippers can also take advantage of daily collections from the stores and lockers, reducing the need to arrange at-home driver collection. 

UPS President, UK, Ireland, Nordics & India, Ufku Akaltan, noted that "the expansion of the UPS Access Point network demonstrates our commitment to develop and deploy solutions that provide customers even more convenient options. Our goal is to continue fostering efficient and sustainable practices, providing alternative delivery locations for recipients, and simplifying supply chains for shippers".

“Our goal is to continue fostering efficient and sustainable practices, providing alternative delivery locations for recipients, and simplifying supply chains for shippers.”- Ufku Akaltan

The Access Point network expansion is part of UPS’s plan to reduce emissions in its ground operations. The network enables a more efficient service closer to the communities where customers live and work, decreasing the need for return visits for redeliveries. This helps to reduce multiple trips for deliveries – and some studies show that delivering to an alternative delivery location rather than a residence can reduce carbon emissions by more than 30%. 

OOHPod customers can find their nearest UPS Access point by checking our locations page or via the UPS website here.

Further reading: Blog - Using OOHPod lockers with UPS Access Point

https://fleet.ie/ups-access-point-launches-in-ireland-to-increase-convenience-for-customers/

https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/1121/1417671-ups-access-point-launches-in-ireland/

https://postandparcel.info/154502/news/e-commerce/ups-demonstrates-commitment-to-provide-customers-even-more-convenient-options/

UPS strengthen UK and Ireland network with the addition of 700 new UPS Access Point locations. Partners in Ireland include OOHPod and Parcel Direct

Blog | UPS Partners with OOHPod and expands UPS Access Point network in Ireland | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

UPS strengthen UK & Ireland network with the addition of 700 new UPS Access Point locations. Partners in Ireland include OOHPod and Parcel Direct

UPS expands network with OOHPod and other smart locker providers

Dublin, The Mansion House, September 22nd 2023

It's a time of great celebration at OOHPod, as we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our CEO and Founder, John Tuohy, for his win at the recent Irish eCommerce Awards. We're thrilled to share the news that John, our CEO, was honoured with a prestigious 'Outstanding Achievement' award for his remarkable contributions to the eCommerce industry. The award, presented by eComm Awards Founder, Kevin Traynor, was a true testament to John's dedication, our incredible team, and the values that drive us forward.  

'The judges felt that OOHPod is a brilliant service that has grown significantly under John’s leadership'

The Irish eCommerce Awards is the biggest celebration of the internet retail industry on the island of Ireland. The awards recognise and reward the organisations, teams and individuals who are helping shape the thriving internet retail industry across the island of Ireland.

With other strong competition in his 'Outstanding Achievement' category, John emerged as the overall winner with the judges commenting that 'OOHPod is a brilliant service that has grown significantly under John’s leadership'.

The judging panel of eCommerce experts noted that 'this serial entrepreneur has their finger on the pulse again to establish a product that could be the next big thing. He has enjoyed significant success throughout his career and is using that knowledge and understanding to innovate in the delivery market'

Congratulations to John and the team at OOHPod for their collective effort, innovation, and unwavering drive for success.

The awards ceremony, at The Round Room at Dublin's Mansion House, was a night to remember. It was an event that brought together the brightest minds and most influential players in the industry. We had the privilege of witnessing John being recognised for his extraordinary leadership and contributions.

Looking Forward

Our commitment to providing innovative solutions and exceptional service to our customers remains unwavering. With John's leadership and our incredible team, we are confident that we will continue to set new benchmarks in the eCommerce delivery market.

Full list of winners at the Irish eCommerce Awards, backed by AIB Merchant Services

Celebrating Success: OOHPod CEO John Tuohy wins 'Outstanding Achievement' award at Irish eCommerce Awards 2023

Blog | OOHPod CEO Wins 'Outstanding Achievement' Award

Celebrating Success: Our CEO John Tuohy wins at Irish eCommerce Awards

OOHPod CEO Wins 'Outstanding Achievement' Award

OOHPod Self Service Parcel Lockers are conveniently located for both sending and returning parcels with Yodel. Most OOHPod locations are accessible 24/7, however some are inside retail outlets. Check the Yodel Store locator for locations and the latest opening hours.

Returning items to your favourite retailers or sending parcels across the UK, including those you've sold on platforms like Vinted, has never been easier. 
Before heading to an OOHPod locker, ensure you've printed and securely attached your Yodel label to your parcel. 

How to get a label:

If you are returning an item you bought online, check the original packaging for a returns label. If you don't have one, you can create one through Yodel's return portal here 

If you are sending a parcel within the UK or NI, you can book your parcel delivery online and print a label through Yodel Direct.

If you are a Vinted seller, you can use prepaid Vinted-generated shipping labels for Yodel Store to Store and Yodel Store to Door. Follow the shipping steps to create a label here.

To find your nearest OOHPod locker, simply use the Yodel Store Locator page. Remember, there's no need to book in advance – you can drop your parcel at any OOHPod Self Service Parcel Locker.


Upon arriving at your chosen location, follow these straightforward instructions:

Step 1: Drop Off
On the OOHPod locker screen, touch drop off and then choose I am a customer. 

Step 2: Scan Parcel / Enter Manually
Scan the barcode at the bottom of the label.

If you have difficulty scanning the barcode, choose 'enter manually'.
The tracking number is 16 digits long and begins with either a 4 or an 8. You'll find it beside the barcode.

Step 3: Receipt
Once you have entered the correct barcode, you will be asked to enter your email address. Enter your email address and confirm. 

Step 4: Place Parcel In Compartment
A door will open. If it is the correct size, place your parcel inside the compartment and close the door. If you need a bigger compartment, close the door and choose "Open bigger" on the screen. Repeat until you get the appropriately sized compartment for your parcel. Place the parcel inside, close the door and choose 'Done'.

Step 5: Track 
And that's it! You will get a receipt by email and a Yodel driver will collect your parcel on their next delivery round. 
You can follow it's progress on the Yodel site here using the tracking number from your label.

Yodel Customer Care: +44 (0) 3447550117 (8am-5pm, Mon to Sat) 

OOHPod Support: oohpod.com/contact (9am-7pm, Mon to Fri. 9am-2pm Sat) 

Follow our quick guide on how to manage and track your Yodel returns using our Northern Ireland parcel lockers

Blog | How to use OOHPod Lockers to Drop Off Yodel Parcels

5 simple steps to manage and track your Yodel parcels using OOHPod Self Service Parcel Lockers

Your 5 Step Guide to Using OOHPod Lockers to Drop Off Yodel Parcels

John, tell us a bit about your background and why you founded OOHPod.

I co-founded Nightline Logistics Group in 1992, which went on to become Ireland’s largest independent courier, turning over €65m and employing 1250 at the time of its acquisition by UPS in 2017. In 2012 I launched Parcel Motel, which was Ireland’s first smart parcel locker network.  

My latest venture, OOHPod, founded in late 2021 is another first, bringing an entirely agnostic smart parcel locker network to the island of Ireland. This means it can be used by any carrier and offers a truly sustainable first and last mile delivery solution to ecommerce transactions. My vision of consolidating first (sent and returned parcels) and last mile (deliveries) promises cost savings for both the carrier and consumer as well as reducing the carbon footprint of ecommerce traffic.

How have you found such great locations and brought such amazing partners on board so quickly?

When it comes to parcel locker networks, locations, and lots of them, are key. We have already agreed partnerships with two of the largest supermarket chains in the country, Lidl and Tesco. This enables us to expand rapidly into areas that are accessible to consumers and allows for the convenient combination of grocery shopping and parcel collection. Lidl and Tesco see it as an additional service to their customers and the surrounding community, as well as an important sustainability benefit in that parcel lockers reduce the amount of delivery vehicles in residential areas by up to 70%.

We are planning for a rapid expansion over the next 2-4 years, allowing us to offer a sustainable & cost effective alternative to home deliveries and collections.

For the first time, retailers can do their own local deliveries without having to go door to door, with little or no packaging. With the exponential growth of C2C (consumer to consumer), our lockers will allow consumers to buy/sell/swap seamlessly, in their local area. 

Bricks and mortar retailers will no longer be restricted by their opening hours as they can use our lockers for 24/7 click and collect. There is really no limit to the ecommerce opportunities we foresee!

'We have already agreed partnerships with two of the largest supermarket chains in the country, Lidl and Tesco'

What challenges have you faced so far and how have you overcome them?

Funding was my first challenge, but along with an investment of my own, I garnered backing from a number of others who saw the potential in the venture. Starting a business in the middle of the Covid Pandemic also brought some challenges! The first batch of OOHPod lockers were delayed by over 3 months due to factory closures and shipping delays. Shipping costs too, soared to multiples of the original quotes.

 Finding location partners was next on the to do list. First Lidl and then Tesco provided us with the potential footprint required for a large locker network, and some independent retailers and shopping centres filled in the gaps. All we needed next was parcels and through a combination of consumers subscribing directly and integrated carriers (UPS and Collect Plus) the business is off to a flying start!

'OOHPod has the potential to change the face of eCommerce delivery into the future!'

Why does OOHPod deserve to win at the Irish eCommerce Awards 2023?

 Having served my time in the parcel delivery business, I could see that home delivery was becoming increasingly problematic, not to mention costly and unsustainable. During the pandemic carriers got into the habit of leaving things "safe" without getting a signature and this seems to have stuck, leading to what is referred to as "porch piracy" and "friendly fraud" where items are stolen from the "safe" place and recipients claim they did not get the item when in fact they did.

On any given day a residential area in Ireland can have up to 8 delivery vehicles operating at the same time. More and more consumers are demanding, faster, cheaper (mostly free) deliveries. The phenomenal growth of the second hand clothing market with companies such as Depop and Vinted, demands a cheap, convenient method for consumers to send parcels to each other. Carriers' costs are soaring and retailers are under pressure with delivery price increases. 

OOHPod is the solution to all of the above and has the potential to change the face of eCommerce delivery into the future. Contrary to how Parcel Motel operated, OOHPod is open for all to use, carriers, retailers, consumers. Our vision is pioneering and promises a better user experience, lower carbon emissions and lower costs for everyone!

How do you feel about being nominated for this award?

I feel honoured and grateful to the judging panel to be nominated for such a prestigious award and to be considered in the same category as the other nominees, all of whom have achieved enormous success in their fields.

What does winning this award mean to you?

It would mean a great deal to me and the wider OOHPod team to win this award.  As a new startup business, I am proud of how much we have achieved in such a short period. We strongly believe that our parcel lockers will become a game changer for eCommerce deliveries, so winning this award would show that the judges share that vision.

The countdown to the big day is now on and John along with the team at OOHPod are looking forward to the awards ceremony which will be held on Friday 22nd September at the Round Room at The Mansion House in Dublin. You can keep an eye out on OOHPods socials to get involved and keep updated on the awards ceremony and who the lucky winner will be. 

Further reading:
Irish eCommerce Awards 2023 Finalists

OOHPod has been named as a finalist for an eComm live Award 2023. Ahead of the awards ceremony on Friday 22nd September, We sat down with our CEO and founder John Tuohy to find out what makes him such a great and deserving nominee for the “Outstanding Achievement Award”. 

Blog | OOHPod named as a finalist for eComm live Awards 2023

Ahead of the awards ceremony on Friday 22nd September, we sat down with our CEO and founder John Tuohy to find out what makes him such a great and deserving nominee for the “Outstanding Achievement Award”. 

OOHPod named as a finalist for eComm Awards 2023

Thursday June 22nd 2023 - Press Release from Lidl Ireland 

Lidl Ireland has joined forces with an innovative ‘out of home’ self-service parcel locker provider OOHPod.

The move will offer consumers with the convenience of picking up or returning their online purchases, at the same time as their regular shop.

The strategic partnership with parcel locker company OOHPod and Lidl Ireland will see the discounter roll out the lockers to stores nationwide in the months ahead, simplifying online shopping for customers.

Lidl Ireland noted that the lockers are open 24/7, providing shoppers with added peace of mind by offering the option to have their purchases dropped safely and securely ‘out of home’ to avoid the risk of missed deliveries.

Avril O’Hehir, chief administration officer at Lidl Ireland, said,"With simplicity and convenience at the heart of both our business models, OOHPod’s parcel lockers will offer safe storage at the point of delivery across our local store network, making Lidl Ireland a one-stop shop for all of your shopping needs."

"OOHPod’s parcel lockers will offer safe storage at the point of delivery across our local store network."

- Avril O’Hehir, Chief Administration Officer at Lidl Ireland

OOHPod is the brainchild of parcel delivery specialist John Tuohy, who launched the service in the Republic of Ireland in 2021, in a bid to provide shoppers with more flexibility in how they receive their online goods.

Customers using the OOHPod service can have their parcels delivered by any online store or carrier to their local Lidl store where OOHPod self-service lockers are available, the retailer explained.

Major courier UPS is fully integrated with OOHPod allowing customers pick up and drop off UPS parcels by selecting the service through the UPS website.

John Tuohy, CEO of OOHPod, commented, “OOHPod parcel lockers are designed with convenience and security in mind, and unlike other providers, our open network model means consumers can shop anywhere and have their parcels delivered straight to an OOHPod locker, no matter who the delivery provider is."

"OOHPod parcel lockers are designed with convenience and security in mind."

- John Tuohy, CEO OOHPod

OOHPod parcel lockers are currently in place at Lidl Ireland stores in Tyrrellstown, Charleville, Mitchelstown, Ballyvolane and Ballincollig, with additional lockers being rolled out at further sites nationwide.

With a number of payment options to choose from, customers can opt to 'pay as you go' by registering a payment method and only pay each time a parcel arrives.

For regular customers there are two discounted subscription bundles available.

For just €8.85 per month The cost for a monthly Standard Subscription is €8.85 whereby customers can have three uses of a locker for a 48-hour period each time.

A €19.50 per month Premium Monthly subscription gives 10 uses of a locker per month of 48 hours each time per use.

See more at Checkout Magazine & Business Plus Magazine

Lidl Ireland has joined forces with an innovative ‘out of home’ self-service parcel locker provider OOHPod.

Blog | Lidl Ireland Joins Forces With OOHPod

Today Collect+, part of the PayPoint Group, announces a new partnership with OOHPod which will enable Yodel Click & Collect customers in Northern Ireland to have their parcels delivered to secure lockers when checking out online.

The partnership represents the first of its kind by Collect+ across Great Britain & Northern Ireland and will be initially piloted for a six-month period running through to October 2023. The parcel lockers will initially be located at nine locations, including Lidl stores in Castlereagh, Newtownards, Shore Road Belfast, and Lisburn. They will provide 24/7 contactless access for customers to pick-up online deliveries at their convenience, and will be available as a click & collect option to select via retailer’s store locators.

In order to choose delivery to the OOHPods, customers need simply to select the option when checking out online.

Nick Williams, Director of Parcel Services at PayPoint said: “Our partnership with OOHPod is evidence of our commitment to providing consumers across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK with an ever increasing range of locations and options to meet their parcel delivery needs.”

John Tuohy, CEO at OOHPod, commented: “We are so excited by this important milestone in the progress of OOHPod in the UK and Ireland. This trial in Northern Ireland allows us to further refine our OOH service offering in agnostic self-service parcel lockers. It's fantastic that we are working with such prestigious partners as Yodel, a leading UK parcel carrier and their longstanding OOH PUDO partners PayPoint Collect+. All three companies are working closely together to deliver a successful trial which will lead to further expansion of our cooperation across the UK.”

Liam Rogan, Out of Home Director at Yodel, commented: “We are pleased to announce this trial of parcel lockers which is an exciting step for us as we look to grow our Out of Home offering. In recent years we have seen consumers demanding more convenient parcel deliveries. Our existing relationship with PayPoint provides customers with access to thousands of conveniently located stores across the UK. Their partnership with OOHPod, provides Yodel with access to a safe place for customers to collect at a time that suits them. The trial also enables us to provide a more sustainable service. By delivering parcels to a single location in an area we can reduce total mileage across our network as we look to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035.”

London, UK: Yodel has announced a new six-month trial of parcel lockers with OOHPod at sites in Northern Ireland. Run in partnership with PayPoint via its Collect+ network.

Blog | Yodel begins parcel locker trial in Northern Ireland

London, UK: Yodel has announced a new six-month trial of parcel lockers with OOHPod at sites in Northern Ireland. 

Yodel begins parcel locker trial in Northern Ireland

We are proud to announce that OOHPod has partnered with United Parcel Service to become part of their UPS Access Point network. A UPS Access Point® is a secure location that allows for picking up or dropping off UPS packages.

To use a UPS Access Point® for receiving parcels, either the shipper or receiver must send the shipment to a listed locker location. This can be done at checkout or arranged for later via the UPS delivery management system. 

Using a UPS Access Point® for sending or returning parcels couldn’t be easier.  Simply follow the steps below and let OOHPod and UPS do the rest! 

Pack up your parcel and ensure that the packaging is suitable to withstand normal transit handling. 

Print the UPS label and attach it to the outside of the parcel.
Tip! You can buy a sending label on UPS.com or, if it’s a return, use the label provided to you by the retailer you are returning the item to.  

Step 3: Bring it to a locker

Bring the parcel to any OOHPod Locker location. Go here for a list of locations.

Tip! Ensure you filter by UPS Access Point. 

On the OOHPod locker screen, touch Drop Off and then Customer.

To open a locker, scan the UPS barcode containing the UPS tracking number. 

The UPS tracking number is 18 digits long and begins with “1Z”.  

Tip! If there is more than one barcode on the label, cover over the others and make sure you are scanning the 1Z barcode only. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT, IF YOU SCAN THE WRONG BARCODE, THE LOCKER WILL NOT OPEN.

If you have difficulty scanning the 1Z barcode, you can key it in instead using the onscreen keyboard. 

A locker door will open. If is it the correct size, place your parcel inside and close the door.  If you need a bigger locker, close the door and touch “Open Bigger” on the screen. Repeat until you get the appropriate sized locker and place your parcel inside and close the door. 

You will be asked if you would like a receipt as proof of drop off. Add your phone number or email address and it will be sent by either SMS or email (as per your selection).

And that’s it! UPS will come to collect your parcel on their next delivery round. You can follow its progress here 

In this post, we explain how to use OOHPod lockers for sending or receiving parcels

Blog | How to Use OOHPod with UPS Access Points | OOHPod - Your Out Of Home Flexible Address

How to use OOHPod Lockers as UPS Access Points 

Press Release from LK Communications on behalf of Lidl Northern Ireland.

New OOHPods in place at Lidl Northern Ireland stores across the region offer shoppers the convenience of picking up their online purchases at same time as their weekly shop.

Lidl Northern Ireland has joined forces with an innovative ‘out of home’ self-service parcel locker provider to make its parcel lockers available to customers across the region, offering them the convenience of picking up or returning their online purchases, at the same time as their regular shop.

The strategic partnership with parcel locker company OOHPod, is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, and will see Lidl roll out the lockers to stores across the region in the months ahead, simplifying online shopping for customers.

The lockers are open 24/7, providing shoppers with added peace of mind by offering the option to have their purchases dropped safely and securely ‘out of home’ to avoid the risk of missed deliveries.

Avril O’Hehir, Chief Administration Officer at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, said;

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