John Lewis has confirmed that its fast track Click & Collect delivery and returns service will be available in over 500 Co-op food stores by the end of the summer.

The move will see the total number of John Lewis Partnership Click & Collect locations increase to nearly 900. This is double the number of current Click & Collect locations in the UK.

The development is part of the Partnership’s plans to invest in digital capabilities and collaborations; making the shopping experience even more convenient for customers.

The phased roll-out of the John Lewis & Partners Click & Collect service to additional Co-op food stores started in July. It is expected to be complete during September 2020.

Commenting is Andrew Murphy, Partner and executive director of operations at the John Lewis Partnership. “Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, we’ve seen a significant shift to online shopping and expect this trend to continue.

“As a result, we are dedicated to providing more choice when it comes to how our customers receive their purchases; helping our customers shop how and when they want us. This includes providing more locations for collection and returns for online shopping.

“The Partnership is always looking for ways to reach new customers and support local communities; providing access to the amazing range of products we sell through convenient locations. Our customers love the ease and convenience Click & Collect provides, which gives us the confidence to continue to invest in this area.

“Building on our already successful partnership with the Co-op, this extension will allow us to offer our Click & Collect service to double the number of locations across the country; enabling us to reach more of our existing loyal customers while engaging with new ones too.”

400 new Co-op stores will join the 105 Co-op existing locations in which the service is already available.

Also commenting is Mark Matthews, director of Innovation and Format, Co-op. “With our stores located at the heart of local communities, choice, ease and convenience is at the very core of our approach.

“We continue to look for new ways to innovate and expand access to products and services conveniently. By working together, we can offer further flexibility and choice to meet consumer needs locally.”

Customers can also access John Lewis Click & Collect at all 50 John Lewis shops. Plus, 326 Waitrose branches and 12 Booths locations across the country.