Waitrose has launched the Flowbird parking app at 14 additional stores following trials in Balham, Wallingford and Wells.

The app users can book a parking space when they arrive at the store, and are sent a reminder when they are due to leave.

Customers can also redeem the parking fee if they spend enough money on their shop.

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“Over the last year, we’ve listened to feedback from our customers and seen an increase in demand for the option of contactless payments within our own car parks,” Waitrose operations manager Louise Pitt said.

“We’re delighted to be able to support more of our customers and offer this service in an additional 14 Waitrose shops.”

Flowbird product manager Steve Jones added that the app would address “concerns some consumers may have in touching terminals” during the pandemic.

The news comes after Lidl launched a “best time to shop” feature on its loyalty app to help shoppers avoid crowds.