DHL Express has opened its first mobile pop-up store in Silver Spring, Maryland, adding to its network of US retail DHL ServicePoint locations. Currently situated within the Westfield Mall parking area, the 2,200 cu ft mobile DHL Service Point claims to be the first of its kind in the shipping industry, providing a quick and easily accessible shipping option for customers.
“That growing need for convenience combined with the local demand for our international shipping services led us to develop this mobile, flexible shipping solution. The new DHL ServicePoint is part of our overall retail strategy to be closer and more accessible to consumers, using an innovative mobile model to complement our retail shipping network,” said DHL Express US CEO Greg Hewitt.
The new pop-up store will remain in its Silver Spring location for the foreseeable future however, it can be relocated as needed, based on changes in local shipping trends. The entire unit is built on a hydraulic lift platform and intelligently wired to accommodate all of the essential amenities, such as HVAC, security and computer systems – including a Point-of-Sale system that can process shipments on their way to destinations in both the US and any of the 220 countries and territories DHL serves. Supplies such as bubble wrap, packing tape and DHL branded boxes are available, and in the coming months, customers will also be able to pick up incoming packages at this location.
In response to social distancing restrictions, the DHL ServicePoint also offers safety features, including Call Ahead service (labels and packaging are ready when the customer arrives, to reduce wait time) and an easy-access service window, which saves visitors from having to enter the store.
DHL worked with Flexetail to create this mobile DHL ServicePoint location. By designing and building flexible mobile shops such as this one, Flexetail gives brands an opportunity to test products, explore new markets and launch new lines.
As part of its overall retail strategy, DHL has plans to launch additional mobile DHL ServicePoint locations in other major markets by the end of 2020. The company has also opened its first fully branded, company-owned US retail store in Miami, following with another in Chicago.
In addition to new company-owned stores, over 7,100 independently owned DHL ServicePoint Partner stores operate in the US market.
Source: DHL
