Salzburg / Munich / Herford, May 20, 2025 – myflexbox has reached another historic milestone: in mid-May, the first self-sufficient next-generation parcel locker – the “Next Gen Locker” – was installed at Katzbachstraße 11 in Herford, North Rhine-Westphalia. After intensive project work with technology partner ARKA Smart Parcel Lockers and several prototypes, the scaling phase is now starting. The next installations in Germany and Austria are already being prepared.

Self-sufficient, efficient, future-proof

The “Next Gen Locker” is an intelligent parcel locker that is completely solar-powered – without an external power connection. The adjustable photovoltaic modules charge batteries that ensure operation even without energy production from the solar panel (e.g. in bad weather). To save power, the display is in sleep mode and is “woken up” by pressing the start button. This only takes a few seconds. The smart parcel locker can always be operated without an app and is therefore very user-friendly, which is particularly important for low-barrier application scenarios in the home. Thanks to its modular design, the “Next Gen Locker” comes in different sizes and can be adapted to different locations.

Compactly designed, cleverly built

The modular station layout is based on detailed usage data – ideal for returns or smaller consignments. The pilot parcel station has a total of 98 compartments. The absence of an external power line not only reduces installation time and complexity, but also opens up new possibilities for locations that could not previously be developed.

“Let the sun shine”

Jonathan Grothaus, CEO & Founder of myflexbox, says: “For us, the Next Gen Locker is more than just a pilot project, but rather a model for urban logistics of the future. It marks the start of a new generation of infrastructure that is energy self-sufficient, resource-saving and scalable. The new system can open up completely new areas, particularly in residential buildings, in peripheral locations or in public spaces. Thanks to the new XS fans, we also have a higher capacity per location, which further increases efficiency. Now let the sun shine.”

Lucian Ulmanu, CEO of ARKA Smart Parcel Lockers, adds: “We are extremely excited to start this collaboration with myflexbox – a visionary company that shares our passion for innovation and excellence. Partnering with such a forward-thinking and professional team has inspired us to raise our own standards in design and technical development. As part of this pilot project, we have developed ARKA’s most advanced parcel station to date – with a 12-inch LED touchscreen, specially designed solar panels and a powerful energy management system with high-capacity batteries for fully autonomous operation – even in challenging conditions such as low sunlight and down to -25 degrees.

This project underlines our key strengths: Modularity, flexibility and software-independent hardware – perfect for seamless integration with dynamic partners like myflexbox. We see this pilot as the starting point of a strong, long-term partnership to scale future-proof infrastructure across Europe.”

Sustainability: the core of the vision

The two companies share a common vision of sustainable urban logistics. The integration of ARKA’s state-of-the-art and most advanced parcel locker hardware to date into myflexbox’s provider-open network takes the innovation of last-mile delivery to a new level. Sustainability is not a side issue for myflexbox – it is an integral part of the company’s vision. Every technological decision, every partnership and every product development contributes to the goal of making urban logistics more resource-conserving, space-efficient and climate-friendly.

With the “Next Gen Locker”, the smart city specialist is taking another logical step towards an energy self-sufficient logistics infrastructure. The elimination of external power sources, the reduction of emissions through bundled delivery and the durable, low-maintenance design make a significant contribution to improving the carbon footprint of parcel logistics – without compromising on convenience or functionality.

About ARKA

Since 2007, ARKA, a leading industrial automation company in Europe, has evolved from developing innovative solutions for the automotive and aerospace industries to developing advanced automation technologies for courier services. With over 17 years of experience in demanding industries, ARKA’s high quality standards and focus on innovation have brought it to the forefront of parcel station technology. This development reflects a strong commitment to quality and detail-oriented innovation – and positions ARKA as a driving force in the redesign of modern delivery solutions.

Press contact ARKA

Laura Colțea
Marketing Director
+40 730 400 607
laura.coltea@arkarobot.com

About myflexbox

Since its foundation in 2018, the last-mile specialist has been revolutionizing urban logistics with intelligent, flexible solutions. The largest carrier-neutral parcel locker network in Germany and Austria consists of over 1,100 parcel lockers in over 300 cities and municipalities and is constantly growing. With myflexbox, parcels and goods can be received, sent and returned conveniently and securely 24/7. The neutral and sustainable infrastructure saves time and travel. The self-developed technology optimally links parcel services, e-commerce, (local) retailers and customers – for a better quality of life and less CO₂ in cities.

Press contact myflexbox

Florian Nack
Public Relations Manager
press@myflexbox.com