BT aims to cut engineer response times by deploying thousands of smart lockers around the UK

BT is to deploy thousands of ‘smart’ lockers across its property portfolio in a bid to cut the amount of time engineers spend collecting equipment and supplies when tasked with repairing and maintaining its network.

First rolling-out in the Midlands, the lockers are powered by Pelipod, a connected parcel delivery solution business recently bought by BT’s Wholesale and Ventures division.

The telecoms giant says they’ll allow it to store “essential supplies” closer to jobs, ending the need for engineers to visit stock locations and distribution centres and increasing the time they have to work on customer faults, carry out installations and complete routine maintenance work.

Each locker is accessed via a unique code which is associated with specific users, drivers and parcels, ensuring the security of items stored within. Using a secure, low power mobile connection, the Pelipod automatically notifies an engineer via SMS or email when their delivery or collection has taken place.

By offering a clear audit trail of every delivery and collection, the lockers also give BT clear visibility of its inventory of stock, allowing it to deploy equipment and spare parts when and where they’re needed most.

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.”

Karl Wills, CEO of Pelipod, said: “Being part of BT is great news for Pelipod. We can have the best of both worlds – the continued innovation and creativity of our talented team with the security and opportunities of being part of a major company like BT.

“We’re looking forward to working together to use our combined innovation to deliver business improvements for our customers and across BT.”

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