How to apply to offer services like the National Lottery or PayPoint

Boost Your Business with Essential Services

To significantly increase the number of people coming through your door, you should apply to become a registered retailer for services like The National Lottery, PayPoint, or a parcel drop-off point for couriers like Evri. These services provide a steady, commission-based income stream and, more importantly, turn your shop into a convenient, one-stop destination for the local community. Customers who come in to buy a lottery ticket or pay a bill are very likely to make an additional purchase, boosting your overall sales.

Why Offer These Services?

Partnering with these well-known brands offers several key advantages:

• Increased Footfall: These are services people use regularly, guaranteeing a consistent flow of potential customers into your store.
• Extra Revenue: You earn a commission on every transaction, whether it's a lottery ticket sale, a bill payment, or a parcel being processed.
• Larger Basket Spend: A customer popping in for one service often buys other items like a newspaper, milk, or a snack. This is known as an 'associated purchase'.
• Enhanced Credibility: Being an official partner for trusted brands like the National Lottery lends your new business instant credibility and trustworthiness.

How to Apply

The application process for each service is different, but they generally follow a similar online path. You will need to provide details about your business, pass credit checks, and meet their specific criteria.

The National Lottery

Becoming a National Lottery retailer is a popular choice for convenience stores. The application is managed directly on the Camelot (the operator) website.

1. Visit the Website: Go to the National Lottery retailer section and start the online application.
2. Meet the Criteria: You'll need to be over 18, have a good credit history, and your premises will be assessed for suitability. They often look at your location to ensure you aren't too close to another retailer.
3. Site Survey: If your initial application is successful, a representative will visit your shop to assess the layout and discuss the installation of the terminal and 'playstation'.
4. Training: You and your staff must complete training on responsible selling and preventing underage play, which is a legal requirement.

PayPoint

PayPoint allows customers to pay household bills, top up mobile phones, and handle other transactions in your store.

1. Apply Online: The process starts on the PayPoint website, where you fill in a form with your business details.
2. Provide Information: You will need to provide proof of your business bank account and identity. A credit check will be carried out.
3. Choose a Package: PayPoint offers different packages and terminal options, often with an application fee and a weekly service charge.
4. Installation and Training: Once approved, they will arrange for an engineer to install the terminal and provide you with training on how to use it.

Parcel Services (e.g., Evri, DPD, UPS)

Offering a parcel drop-off and collection service is a low-cost way to generate footfall. Customers come in to send returns or pick up deliveries.

1. Find the 'Partner' Section: Visit the website of your chosen courier and look for a link like 'Become a ParcelShop' or 'Host a Locker'.
2. Check Requirements: You will need a secure, dry space to store parcels that is not accessible to the public. Your opening hours will also be a factor.
3. Apply Online: Complete the application form. The process is usually simpler than for financial services.
4. Receive Equipment: If approved, you will be sent a handheld scanner and all the necessary materials. You earn a small fee for every parcel you handle.

Top Tip: Before you apply, think carefully about your counter space and storage. National Lottery and PayPoint terminals need a dedicated spot on your counter, while parcel services require secure backroom storage. Being prepared with a clear plan will make your application and site survey go much more smoothly.