LONDON - London??s Daily Mail reported earlier this week that supermarket chain Tesco is considering a plan to allow its customers to pick up orders placed via the Internet at its network of convenience stores.

The strategy would engage about 1,400 Express and metro stores and eliminates the need for the chain to rely on the mail, a significant cost savings.

According to the Mail, discussions are at an early stage but Tesco last year began trials of a "click-and-collect" grocery service.

Analysts said the move would require little reorganization from Tesco??s shops, and supermarket analyst Clive Black predicted the move would resonate strongly with consumers.

"The last mile is seen as a key barrier for home delivery," Black said. "A lot of people might be persuaded to order online if they could turn up to a local store rather than wait for hours at home until the delivery arrives."

"Click-and-collect" operations are becoming increasingly popular in Europe. For more, see this NACS Magazine feature on France??s Chronodrive.