Hermes delivers over 640 million parcels each year. Its newly launched Stay Fresh service specialises in parcels that contain fresh and raw produce, guaranteeing delivery success within a two-hour ETA (estimated time of arrival).
The service also includes additional ‘leave safe’ options, like ‘safe place’ photos and geo-pinning to ensure delivery accuracy.
Wonky bread
Earth & Wheat launched earlier this year as the world’s first ‘wonky bread’ online delivery platform, with an aim to reduce food waste at the point of production.
The green tech start-up ‘rescues’ and ‘rehomes’ fresh baked goods that would otherwise have been binned due to its odd size or unattractive appearance. Figures are hard to ignore, with a third of all food produced around the world thrown away. Add to that the fact that 25% of the world’s fresh water used to produce that food is also wasted. And when it comes to bread, a global staple, in the UK alone, 24 million pieces of bread are wasted every day.
To date, Earth & Wheat claims to have saved 100 tonnes of bakery products via its ‘wonky bread’ boxes, which are packed with a mixed selection of crumpets, pancakes, tortillas, pittas, focaccias, flatbreads and naan breads. Founder James Eid initially sourced surplus product from his family’s business, Signature Flatbreads, but has since been onboarding independent bakeries around the UK.
“Earth & Wheat is delighted to partner with Hermes, which is one of the most recognised delivery companies in the country,” said Eid.
“Our subscriber base is increasing all the time and, as an online delivery platform of food, it is crucial our customers receive their Earth & Wheat boxes as soon as possible.
“The Hermes Stay-Fresh delivery service means we’re now able to offer our customers next-day delivery, so food remains ultra-fresh! Our food may look ‘wonky’ in shape or appearance, but it is still extremely tasty.”