Asda and Amazon have partnered for a new parcel pick-up and label-free, box-free return service at more than 700 of the supermarket’s stores.

Eligible Amazon orders will now be able to be collected at most of the grocer’s stores across the UK, with more locations set to be added across the coming months.

The new initiative is designed to make shopping at the supermarket giant even more convenient for customers, who will be able to do their weekly shopping alongside collecting and returning their parcels in one trip.

The scheme also reduces the need for additional shipping boxes, as customers are able to turn the item in the original manufacturer’s packaging.

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Asda vice president of logistics Chris Hall said: “Meeting the ever-evolving needs of our customers is a top priority for us at Asda. This collaboration with Amazon just in time for Christmas marks another landmark moment, not just for our larger stores, but our ever-expanding Asda Express convenience estate.

“By bringing essential services like Amazon parcel pickup and return drop-offs closer to where our customers live and work, we’re able to provide greater convenience to more of the communities we serve across the UK.”

Amazon UK country manager John Boumphrey added: “We work hard to offer customers low prices on a wide selection of products, with fast, convenient delivery options and easy returns.”

“This collaboration with Asda makes it even easier for customers to pick up ordered items when they’re shopping, or make hassle-free returns at more than 700 locations around the country.”

The new service follows Asda’s bid to bolster its convenience estate. Earlier this year it appointed property boss Chris Walker to managing director of its Express convenience store business, in a move aimed at expanding its number of stores.

However in August, the grocery retailer said it was slowing down the roll out of its convenience stores and cutting capital expenditure to focus on improving the in-store experience.