In a move to further expand its distribution footprint and consolidate its market leader position, Tara Courier Services Ltd has entered a strategic partnership with Jamaica’s largest supermarket chain, Progressive Grocers.

Under the arrangement, which the courier service provider says is the first of its kind in the Caribbean, shoppers can dispatch packages to any destination of their choice via the Tara Drop Stations located in the customer service departments at each of the designated supermarkets.

“As the largest courier service in Jamaica, we pride ourselves on our consistent drive to find innovative ways to deliver convenience and a consistent experience that is fast, reliable and one that you can trust. With this new partnership, we are providing an excellent touchpoint for customers as Tara seeks to take the hassle out of sending packages,” said Tara Courier Director Tara Laing-Thompson in a release from the company.

Available at 15 locations across the island, shoppers will benefit from same-day delivery service. With an assurance of speedy, quality delivery, shoppers can courier documents, boxes, envelopes, flowers, catering, grocery items and more.

“Having these drop centres is a guarantee that your items will arrive quickly and safely at their final destination. Our prices are some of the most competitive rates in the industry and our on time delivery rate, which always hovers right around 100 per cent, is another way we are serious about taking care of our customers,” Laing-Thompson adds.

While declining to state actual figures, Thompson-Laing mentioned that the distribution deal is part of a broader investment plan by Tara Courier geared towards driving efficiency and managing its operating expenses.

The company recently made a significant investment in upgrading its IT infrastructure with a view to serving its customers better. Bruce Loshusan, director at Progressive Grocers Jamaica is excited about the partnership and sees the addition of courier services to its suite of value added offerings as a perfect fit.

“It’s a symbiotic relationship for Progressive Grocers and Tara Courier, as both entities will collectively deliver an enhanced shopping experience for current and new customers. It’s basically a one-stop shop as customers can shop and send their packages in one place,” Loshusan said.

Tara/Progressive Grocers Drop Stations are located at Super Shoppers Fair on Washington Boulevard, Shoppers Fair Duhaney Park, Shoppers Fair Harbour View, Brooklyn Twin Gates, Brooklyn Clock Tower, Super Valu Supermarket Mannings Hill Road and Shoppers Fair Liguanea in the Corporate Area.

Other locations include Progressive Foods Portmore Pines, Shoppers Fair Greater Portmore, Shoppers Fair Brunswick, Shoppers Fair Junction, Shoppers Fair May Pen, Shoppers Fair Westgate and Progressive Foods Whitter in Montego Bay and D & Y Supermarket in Savanna-la-Mar.