Royal Mail announces major change to postboxes across UK

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"Royal Mail is set to revolutionise its iconic postbox design with the rollout of 3,500 solar-powered "postboxes of the future" across the UK. These innovative units feature a digitally activated drop-down drawer, specifically designed to accommodate parcels as large as a shoebox. Heralding the biggest transformation to the postbox in its 175-year history, the new design was trialled earlier this year in Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire. The rollout will now extend to major cities including Edinburgh, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Sunderland."

"Customers will be able to scan a barcode via the Royal Mail app to activate the drawer, which is intended for items too large for a traditional letter slot. The redesigned boxes also retain a separate opening for standard letters and are equipped with a solar panel to power the scanner and drawer mechanism. Proof of posting and parcel tracking will be available through the Royal Mail app, with the service primarily targeting individuals sending or returning items purchased online."

Independent relies on reader donations to fund on-the-ground reporting across issues like reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, enabling reporters to interview both sides and investigate complex stories. The outlet remains accessible without paywalls, funded by supporters who can afford to donate. Royal Mail will introduce 3,500 solar-powered "postboxes of the future" with a digitally activated drop-down drawer sized for shoebox parcels, retaining a separate letter slot. The design was trialled in Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire and will roll out to cities including Edinburgh, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Sunderland. Users will scan a barcode via the Royal Mail app to activate drawers, with proof of posting and parcel tracking available through the app.

Read at www.independent.co.uk