PayPoint expands accessibility of Covid-19 testing

PayPoint has announced an expansion of its partnership with Randox, boosting access to Covid-19 testing for travellers returning to the UK.

In the backdrop of the government’s new arrival requirements for Day 2 testing, announced on 5 January, the collaboration provides easier access to low-cost Covid-19 testing by enabling people to order a Randox test online for click and collect at a local store within the Collect+ network.

Launching today (7 January), the service will initially be available in over 5,000 locations, and soon in over 10,000 locations nationwide. People can now collect these tests from local stores for just £18.95, rather than waiting at home for deliveries to arrive.

The changes to travel policy, taking effect from 4am on 9 January, allows fully vaccinated arrivals from non-red list countries to take a lateral flow (antigen) test, with a PCR test only required if a positive lateral flow result is returned.

“Our expanded partnership with Randox will deliver yet another vital service to help keep people safe in communities across the UK,” Nick Wiles, Chief Executive at PayPoint said.

“Consumer convenience and accessibility are at the very heart of what we do and this is another example of our agility, responsiveness and the great relationships we have with our retailer partners in the ever-changing landscape across the UK.”

Day 2 lateral flow tests must be ordered before travel to England. Using the free Randox CertiFly App results are processed within 3 hours and a report delivered in-app and via email, allowing arrivals into England to complete their Day 2 test conveniently in the comfort of their own home, and for individuals who test positive, potentially reducing the amount of time they need to isolate.

“The availability of value for money tests that can be collected at the customer’s convenience thanks to our partnership with PayPoint means people in the UK don’t need to wait for home delivery or a walk-in clinic appointment when ordering a Covid-19 test,” Dr Peter FitzGerald, managing director at Randox said,

PayPoint added that it will give consumers the ability to walk into a local store and pick up a test immediately in over 2,500 locations, with no need to order online, from mid-January. This service will be offered in partnership with major convenience retailers including Scotmid Co-operative and Spar in the North West and Scotland.