UK telecoms company BT has started the roll out of the Pelipod smart delivery locker network with which it hopes to speed up the delivery of broadband and phone services by reducing the distance its engineers need to travel to collect equipment.
The roll out is starting in the Midlands and will then go nationwide. The Pelipod lockers will be located inside and within the grounds of BT’s strategic sites.
As previously reported, BT bought Pelipod in September. The deal is the first acquisition made by BT’s Wholesale and Ventures division since it was formed in April.
Pelipod, which was created in 2013 by entrepreneur Karl Wills, produces internet connected, centrally monitored, secure delivery lockers which provide proof-of-delivery and collection.
Following successful trials by BT engineers, the business is planning to deploy “a few thousand” Pelipods across the country over time. Accessed via unique codes which are associated with specific users, drivers and parcels, the secure lockers will be used to deliver equipment and spare parts to engineers working on the broadband and phone network.
Pelipods will be positioned in around 500 of BT’s sites nationwide, removing the need for engineers to travel the longer distances required to collect equipment and supplies from BT’s forward stock locations or distribution centres.
Using a secure, low power mobile connection, each Pelipod automatically notifies an engineer via SMS or email when their delivery or collection has taken place, as well as taking a photograph of the inside of the locker. By providing a clear audit trail of every delivery and collection, the solution also gives BT clear visibility of its inventory of stock.
For added physical security, Pelipods located within the grounds of BT’s sites will be securely fastened to the wall or ground using industrial strength cables or bolts. The solution has undergone rigorous online and physical security penetration testing, with positive results.
Nicholas Hale, Managing Director of Ventures, said: “We currently provide supply chain services to BT Group businesses and a number of external customers. Pelipod will boost our existing supply chain offerings and provide us with a competitive edge through an innovative technology which takes advantage of the Internet of Things.”
As part of BT, Pelipod will continue to provide its services to its existing clients which includes those in the utilities, healthcare and heavy machinery sectors. It will also look to further expand its external customer base.