Tesco Partners With The British Forces Post Office To Send Parcels Overseas

Tesco Direct partners with the British Forces Post Office (BFPO) to help family and friends send parcels to British military personnel overseas.

As a frequent online shopper, coming home and finding a parcel on my doormat is a regular occurrence. However while serving abroad in the RAF receiving a parcel was an entirely different experience.

Whilst serving in Afghanistan in 2010, I distinctly remember returning from a difficult patrol to find a parcel from my Mum waiting for me. It didn't contain anything unusual just some DVDs and my favourite British sweets, a rare treat in a country like Afghanistan. This simple reminder of home really lifted my spirits after a long day. It was incredibly comforting to know she was thinking of me.

On returning home, after my duties, it became clear that the process of sending a parcel had also meant a lot to my family and friends. They felt they could connect with me despite being thousands of miles away. I have kept every parcel and letter I received during my time in Afghanistan. I occasionally go through them to remind myself of how much support I received while overseas.

Fast forward six years and the skills and experience I gained in the RAF have helped me to build a new career with Tesco. I now work in our Head Office supporting store colleagues across the country. My memory of opening that parcel from my Mum means I'm particularly proud of Tesco's partnership with the British Forces Post Office (BFPO). Products bought on the Tesco Directwebsite can now be sent directly to anyone serving in the armed forces. Family & friends can send goods for the same cost as a standard UK delivery.

Our partnership with BFPO is just one of the ways in which Tesco supports the British armed forces. Our Armed Forces Network supports colleagues like me with military connections. We are again proudly supporting the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal this year. Poppies and collection points are in all our stores, distribution centres and offices across the UK.

This time of year is particularly important to anyone with friends or loved ones in the armed forces. Our partnership with the BFPO is a little help which I know will make a big difference.