John Lewis-owned grocery chain Waitrose is trialling a delivery service where drivers will put their groceries away in customers’ fridges and freezers while they are out.

100 customers in London are ton be piloted with the ‘While You’re Away’ service.

The process involves using Yale smart-lock technology where drivers will get temporary access to the customer’s home.

Under the scheme, the driver will put refrigerated goods in the fridge and frozen in the freezer while leaving the other groceries on the counter (or as directed in the order).

For security the driver will wear a chest-cam and the entire delivery video will be made available on request for the customer the next working day.

Under the pilot, there will be a maximum order of £25. Also the pilot allows for a maximum of six orders per person.

If the first phase of the trial is successful, some 1,000 customers will be trialled next Spring.

“The concept of ‘in-home delivery’ has started to prove popular in other countries so we are keen to establish if there is an appetite for it in the UK,” said Waitrose head of business development Archie Mason.

Nigel Fisher, Managing Director for Yale UK, said: “Working with Waitrose & Partners to develop the UK’s first in-home delivery service is an exciting premise for Yale, as we look to understand how smart products can enhance daily lives, as well as protecting your home.”