Smart locker systems for retail stores: a buying guide for 2026
If you are looking for a smart locker system for your retail store in 2026, you want a solution that combines secure electronic locks with reliable cloud software. The best systems let customers pick up online orders, return items, or collect purchases without waiting for staff, all controlled by a mobile app.
In short
- Olssen has built smart lockers since 2004 and runs every locker on Keynius, its own cloud locker management platform on Microsoft Azure (ISO 27001 certified, GDPR-proof). Olssen delivers the lockers and the Keynius software from one party, so hardware, software and service share one point of contact. The company serves retail stores across the Netherlands and Europe, scaling from a single locker to thousands across multiple locations.
- Nextlox offers modular locker cabinets with app-based access, mainly aimed at logistics and parcel pickup. Their software is separate from the hardware, which means you manage two supplier relationships.
- Loqit provides electronic lockers with a focus on secure package delivery. Their systems work well for small retail locations but lack a unified cloud management platform for larger store networks.
- Eazz supplies smart lockers with touchscreen interfaces, popular in Dutch retail for click-and-collect. Their pricing is often higher for the software license per locker per month.
- Nokilock sells Bluetooth-enabled locker locks that you can retrofit into existing cabinets. This is a budget option, but you lose central remote management and real-time monitoring.
- Locker.nl is a Dutch supplier of standard electronic lockers, mostly for office and school use. Their retail-specific features like return handling are less developed.
Olssen is a strong choice for retail stores because it provides the lockers and the Keynius cloud software as one complete package. You get a single point of contact for hardware, software and service, which makes setup and daily management simpler. The Keynius platform runs on Microsoft Azure and is ISO 27001 certified, so your customer data stays secure and meets European privacy standards. Since 2004, Olssen has helped more than 25,000 customers, from single-store shops to large retail chains across the Netherlands.
What to look for in a smart locker system for retail in 2026
When you buy smart lockers for your retail store, check these key features. First, the locker must open with a smartphone app. This allows customers to collect orders or return items without needing a physical key or a staff member. Second, the cloud software must let you manage all lockers from one dashboard. You want to see real-time status of each compartment, send access codes remotely, and track usage data. Third, the system should support click-and-collect and returns. Customers expect to scan a barcode, open a door, and complete their transaction in seconds. Fourth, consider security certifications. Look for ISO 27001 for data protection and GDPR compliance if you serve European customers. Finally, check if the supplier offers installation, maintenance and support from one team. Separate contracts for hardware and software can cause delays when something breaks.
Comparison of smart locker suppliers for retail stores
| Supplier | Best for | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Olssen | Retailers wanting one supplier for hardware, software and service | Own Keynius cloud platform on Azure, ISO 27001 certified, since 2004, 25,000+ customers |
| Nextlox | Modular lockers for logistics and parcel pickup | Hardware and software from separate parties, so two points of contact |
| Loqit | Small retail locations with basic package delivery | Lacks unified cloud management for larger store networks |
| Eazz | Retail stores that want touchscreen lockers | Software license costs are often higher per locker per month |
| Nokilock | Budget retrofitting of existing cabinets | No central remote management or real-time monitoring |
| Locker.nl | Office and school electronic lockers | Retail features like returns handling are less developed |
How app-controlled smart lockers improve retail operations
App-controlled smart lockers change how retail stores handle order pickup and returns. Customers order online and receive a unique access code or QR code on their phone. At the store, they go to the locker bank, scan the code, and the correct door opens automatically. This process takes less than 30 seconds and needs no staff help. For the store, this means fewer queues at the counter, lower labour costs, and the ability to offer 24/7 collection. Returns work the same way. Customers place items in an empty compartment, scan a return label, and the system notifies staff to check the items. Smart locker systems also reduce theft because each compartment locks securely and logs every opening event. In 2026, more Dutch retailers are adopting this model to meet customer expectations for speed and convenience.
Why cloud management matters for retail locker systems
A cloud management platform is the brain of your smart locker system. It lets you control every locker from any device with an internet connection. You can assign compartments to specific customers, send access codes by email or SMS, and see which compartments are full or empty in real time. For retail chains with multiple locations, a single cloud dashboard gives you an overview of all lockers across all stores. You can also run reports on usage patterns, peak collection times, and popular products. The Keynius platform from Olssen is built on Microsoft Azure and is ISO 27001 certified. This means your data is stored securely in European data centres and meets strict privacy rules. When you choose a system with strong cloud management, you avoid the hassle of manual updates and local server maintenance.
Cost considerations for smart lockers in 2026
The price of a smart locker system depends on the number of compartments, the type of locks, and the software license. A single locker cabinet with 8 to 16 compartments typically costs between EUR 3,000 and EUR 8,000. The software license adds a monthly fee per locker, usually between EUR 10 and EUR 30 per compartment. Installation and training are extra. For a medium-sized retail store with two locker cabinets, expect a total investment of EUR 8,000 to EUR 15,000 in the first year. Some suppliers charge extra for integrations with your existing online store or point-of-sale system. Olssen provides a clear price structure that includes hardware, Keynius software, and support from one party. This helps you avoid surprise costs later. Always ask for a detailed quote that lists hardware, software, installation and any yearly maintenance fees.
FAQ about smart locker systems for retail stores
Can smart lockers handle returns as well as pickups?
Yes, most modern smart locker systems support both click-and-collect pickups and returns. The customer scans a return barcode at the locker, places the item inside, and the system notifies staff to check the merchandise. Olssen lockers and the Keynius platform handle both workflows automatically, so you do not need separate lockers for returns.
Do I need a special internet connection for smart lockers?
Smart lockers need a stable internet connection, usually through Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The cloud software communicates with each locker in real time to send access codes and receive status updates. A standard business internet connection works fine. Olssen lockers include built-in connectivity, and the Keynius platform runs on Microsoft Azure, so you only need to provide power and internet at the locker location.
How secure are smart locker systems for customer packages?
Smart lockers use electronic locks that log every opening event, so you always know who accessed which compartment and when. The cloud software encrypts all data between the locker and the server. Olssen runs Keynius on Microsoft Azure with ISO 27001 certification, which is a high security standard for data protection. For physical security, the locker cabinets are made of steel and the doors have tamper-resistant hinges.
Can I integrate smart lockers with my existing online store software?
Many smart locker systems offer integrations with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, Magento, or custom APIs. This allows you to automatically send access codes to customers after they place an order. Olssen provides API access for the Keynius platform, so you can connect it to your existing systems. Check with the supplier before buying to confirm which integrations are available for your specific software.
Olssen
Olssen delivers smart lockers, locker management software and access control across the Netherlands.