Federal Express Corporation has expanded its leadership team in Asia Pacific (APAC) to advance business and talent strategy.
Marcus Balzereit assumes the role of Senior Vice President, APAC Sales & Solutions, while Rumana Rahman joins as Vice President, APAC Human Resources, and Shanker Venkateswaran is appointed as Vice President, APAC Planning & Engineering. By attracting and retaining top talent across all levels, the company is strategically positioning itself to seize emerging market opportunities and fuel growth across this rapidly evolving region.
With over 25 years of experience in the logistics industry, Marcus Balzereit brings extensive expertise in driving commercial success across diverse markets. In his new role, he will lead a 2,000-strong sales organization in the Asia Pacific region, driving profitable revenue growth and expanding market share. Marcus will focus on delivering differentiated solutions and strengthening customer relationships, enabling customers to fully leverage the strong FedEx value proposition.
People are the driving force behind FedEx, and its talent strategy is key to achieving its ambitious goals. With 24 years of experience in human resources across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, Rumana Rahman brings deep expertise in shaping high-impact people strategies. In her new role, Rumana will lead talent development to cultivate a high-performance culture and evolve workforce strategies to meet the needs of a rapidly changing and diverse talent landscape.
Shanker brings over two decades of experience across business, technology, and operations, with expertise spanning multiple industries and geographies. In his new role, Shanker will lead the transformation of FedEx’s ground network through design, digitization, and automation, enhancing efficiency and flexibility to meet customer demands, with focus on optimizing operations to stay ahead of market changes and exceed customer expectations.
“Building a future-ready team in Asia Pacific is a top priority,” said Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific at FedEx. “With these new appointments, we’re further strengthening our commitment to anticipating customer needs, driving market growth, and empowering our teams with the agility and innovation required to make a lasting impact in this fast-evolving region.”
Parcel delivery company DPD has confirmed it is conducting electric HGV road trials with MAN, with the aim of introducing heavy-duty electric trucks later this year.
DPD is running road trials with the MAN eTGX which has a range of up to 800 kms and a charging capacity of up to 750 kW.
The truck will be based at DPD’s Hinckley hub 4 where, following a full induction and driver training, it will be assigned to a DPD route for operational testing, towing a standard trailer.
In 2023, DPD converted the majority of its 1,600 HGVs to HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil). 95% of DPD’s HGV fleet is now running on HVO, reducing emissions by 83% compared to diesel.
The transition to electric trucks presents an additional challenge, as DPD has operated double-decker trailers for many years, which reduce the number of vehicles on the road by increasing parcel capacity and reducing the accompanying emissions.
DPD is working with MAN to develop a configuration capable of pulling double-decker trailers and the first vehicle with that spec will be on test with DPD later this year.
As part of Geopost, DPD UK has a Net Zero target of 2040, which is fully validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). DPD UK has confirmed that the UK operation is on track with the trajectory required to meet the group target, after delivering a 47.5% reduction in overall emissions at the end of 2024, compared to the 2020 benchmark.
Tim Jones, Director of Marketing, Communications & Sustainability, DPDgroup UK commented, “With over a third of our delivery vans now electric and the vast majority of our transport fleet running on HVO, we have made very real progress towards meeting our net-Zero targets. Electric HGVs have the potential to become a viable solution in the future, and we now believe we can get the configuration we need to maintain our double-decker trailer fleet, which has enabled us to reduce the overall number of HGVs we put on the road for many years. HVO is likely to remain the most effective solution in the medium term, delivering a huge emissions reduction. It remains key to our strategy for reaching our near-term target in 2030, but we are keen to work with manufacturers to help develop the electric trucks that can work for us in the real world.”
Stefan Thyssen, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus UK Ltd said, “We are thrilled to have partnered with DPD on their electric HGV road trials. “As a manufacturer, we are committed to supporting our customers in decarbonizing their road transport operations. These trials with our all-electric eTGX tractor not only demonstrate the real-world viability of electric trucks in a high-demand logistics environment but also highlight the significant emissions reductions and sustainability benefits they bring to the industry.”
Details on all of DPD’s sustainability initiatives can be found on its dedicated website.
Royal Mail and Sainsbury’s have announced a long-term partnership introducing parcel lockers at Sainsbury’s stores across the UK. Sainsbury’s is the first supermarket chain to partner with Royal Mail on its rapidly expanding network of parcel drop-off and collection points.
Royal Mail launched its parcel locker network back in December to meet surging demand for convenient parcel drop-off and collection points and to cater for the growing number of second-hand marketplace sellers.
Royal Mail’s lockers, which can already be found in six Sainsbury’s stores across the country with more rolling out soon, offer a hassle-free parcel drop-off service, and soon they will include convenient collection options. With prices starting from just £1.55 online for a small parcel that fits through the letterbox, Royal Mail offers the most affordable rates in the market.
The smart lockers also feature label printing, making the process even more convenient. Customers simply need to pay for postage online and print the label by scanning a QR code at the locker or request a QR code if they are returning a purchase.
The partnership is part of Royal Mail’s widely expanding network of lockers and other drop off and collection points. Royal Mail now has more than 21,000 locations where customers can drop off and collect parcels, including 1,500 lockers, 7,000 Collect+ stores, 11,500 Post Office branches, 1,200 Royal Mail Customer Service Points and 1,200 parcel postboxes. Customers can also drop off parcels small enough to fit in a postbox, and use the app to request proof of postage.
Jack Clarkson, Group Strategy and Transformation Director at Royal Mail, said: “Partnering with a retailer with the scale and popularity of Sainsbury’s is great news for our customers and the UK public, who will now have even more ways to drop off and collect their parcels in convenient locations.
“Due to the relentless growth in online shopping and secondhand marketplaces, there is increased demand from our customers for more parcel drop off and collection points. To meet our goal of making sending and receiving parcels as easy as possible, we must considerably expand our network. This is the start of an exciting partnership with Sainsbury’s that will help us to meet that goal at pace.”
Patrick Dunne, Chief Property and Procurement Officer, Sainsbury’s, said: “At Sainsbury’s we’re always looking for innovative ways to deliver the best value, quality and service for our customers. That’s why we’re delighted to be partnering with Royal Mail to offer this fantastic new proposition at our stores. The lockers will be available 7 days a week, giving customers an easy, convenient way to drop off and collect parcels via Royal Mail as they shop.”
DHL Group has announced a strategic investment of €2 billion over the next five years to enhance its logistics capabilities in the life sciences and healthcare sector.
This investment supports the Group’s “Strategy 2030” and reinforces DHL’s commitment to helping healthcare customers grow, innovate, and serve patients more effectively worldwide. With 50% of the investment allocated to the Americas, 25% to Asia Pacific, and 25% to the EMEA region, DHL is expanding its global footprint to deliver integrated, faster, more reliable, and patient-centric logistics solutions wherever healthcare companies operate.
The investment will focus on enhancing high-quality infrastructure and technology across all logistics touchpoints – from storage, order fulfilment, and distribution to global shipping and last-mile delivery – creating even more resilient, scalable, and responsive supply chains for customers. A significant part of the investment will be allocated to establishing new cross-divisional GPD-certified Pharma Hubs for multi-temperature shipments lanes, expanding cold chain capacity in existing facilities, commissioning new temperature-controlled vehicles, and enhancing both passive and active packaging solutions to ensure sustainable delivery.
As the demand grows in critical areas such as clinical trials, biopharma, and cell and gene therapies, DHL is also investing in high-quality, specialized cooling infrastructure to accommodate low and ultra-low temperature ranges. Additionally, the Group will implement cutting-edge IT systems that provide end-to-end visibility, ensuring product integrity, regulatory compliance, and confidence for healthcare providers and their patients.
With its new sector brand DHL Health Logistics, the Group consolidates its life sciences and healthcare expertise under one unified umbrella. This creates a seamless, end-to-end experience for customers, simplifying the management of complex, cross-border supply chains with confidence, agility and high-quality service. The approach is designed to meet the needs of pharmaceutical, biopharma, and medical customers who require agile, connected logistics solutions that go beyond traditional service lines.
“Similar to DHL Group’s purpose of “Connecting people, improving lives”, our strategic investment in life sciences and healthcare is driven by our customers’ mission: delivering essential, often life-saving products to people in need,” said Oscar de Bok, CEO of DHL Supply Chain. “We’re building high-quality, integrated logistics solutions that are as innovative and reliable as the products our customers create – ensuring that patients everywhere receive the right treatment, at the right time, with complete confidence.”
DHL Group has long been a trusted partner in life sciences and healthcare logistics, contributing over EUR 5 billion in global revenue in 2024. With an additional EUR 5 billion in projected incremental revenue by 2030, DHL Group is scaling its operations to match the fast-evolving needs of the industry and its end-users – healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Through this strategic investment, DHL Group is not only reinforcing its commitment to the life science and healthcare sector but also demonstrating a profound dedication to patient care by ensuring the efficient and reliable delivery of essential pharmaceutical products, clinical trials and cell & gene therapies. This approach positions DHL Group at the forefront of the industry, fully equipped to tackle challenges and seize opportunities in a rapidly transforming market.
Currently, DHL Group operates nearly 600 sites, hubs, and warehouses across close to 130 countries dedicated to life sciences and healthcare logistics, encompassing a total of more than 2,5 million square meters of temperature-controlled warehouse space. Building on this extensive network, our customers benefit from a comprehensive portfolio of fully integrated solutions.
In addition to infrastructure investments, DHL Group has recently acquired CRYOPDP, a leading specialty courier focused on clinical trials, biopharma, and cell and gene therapies, to further strengthen its capabilities in this segment and expand the potential of its Pharma Specialized Network as part of the overall investment strategy.
DHL Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the e-commerce marketplace Temu to deepen their cooperation and to further expand their successful partnership.
The agreement aims to enhance collaboration to better support local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in established markets as well as in growth markets, such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Both parties are committed to fostering compliant trade and sustainable practices.
DHL Group will support Temu through its logistics expertise, including multimodal transportation solutions, to provide more efficient and sustainable supply chain services. With its dense network and global presence, DHL Group is the ideal partner to support Temu’s growth in both established and new markets.
“Through our various DHL divisions, we are already providing a wide range of logistics services and solutions, including air freight and last-mile delivery. We are excited to elevate our partnership with Temu to the next level. By combining our logistics capabilities with Temu’s innovative platform, we can create more efficient, compliant and convenient solutions that benefit both consumers and local businesses in the markets we serve,” states Katja Busch, CCO and Head of DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation.
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding, DHL Group will utilize its logistics expertise to support Temu’s operations in Europe, including its local-to-local model, which enables local merchandise partners to sell on its platform and supports local fulfillment. Temu expects up to 80% of its total sales in Europe to come from this local-to-local model. Additionally, the e-commerce platform will enable European-based sellers to reach global markets in the future. This allows, in particular, SMEs to scale and expand their businesses. DHL will also assist Temu in growing its presence in e-commerce markets, including the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) regions.
“This letter of intent marks a significant step in our partnership with DHL Group. Its extensive network and logistics capabilities will help support our mission to increase consumer access to affordable products and help increase growth opportunities for sellers,” states Qin Sun, co-founder of Temu.
Federal Express Corporation has launched a new first- and last-mile location in Amsterdam.
The fully integrated facility strengthens FedEx’s position as a leading supply chain player in the Netherlands, with enhanced sorting capacity and innovative technologies that improve efficiency and support its fleet electrification strategy.
The new location, where FedEx operates both freight and parcel operations, is strategically located next to Schiphol Airport and seamlessly integrated into the extensive FedEx European Road network via its road hub in Duiven, offering customers direct connections to 45 markets in Europe.
The facility enhances the FedEx operation in a number of ways. The warehouse space of 16,000 square meters is a spacious doubling compared to the previous location. During morning and evening shifts, around fifty warehouse team members work with advanced sorting technologies that have tripled the sorting capacity to as many as 4,500 packages per hour. In addition, the sorting machine automatically detects whether a shipment that is subject to customs inspections is cleared for delivery.
The optimised sorting process allows packages to be directly loaded into more than 100 vehicles, significantly reducing processing times and enabling drivers to hit the road earlier. The facility also accommodates 290 office employees. In select postal codes, customers will enjoy improved cut-off times, allowing for more time to prepare their shipments. Customers can also pick up their shipments at the new location.
Ergonomic Work Environment
The new facility not only provides operational advantages but also enhances the working environment for employees. During the design phase, FedEx placed special emphasis on ergonomic workspaces, improved climate control, and optimal LED lighting, ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment in both the warehouse and office areas. An example of this is the use of boom conveyors, which significantly ease the processing of individual packages. Additionally, FedEx emphasises the importance of safety through weekly training sessions and visual support in the warehouse.
Marius Penninks, Vice President Network Operations at FedEx Europe, says: “Our new Amsterdam facility is a crucial part of our first and last mile optimisation strategy for the Netherlands, and enables us to provide an even better service to our customers.”
“We are also extremely proud that this new facility truly represents FedEx. Here, all our colleagues can work comfortably and safely, while customers enjoy a smoother experience when picking up or dropping off packages.”
Designed for Electric Vehicles
Aligned with FedEx’s goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040, the express transportation company has designed the facility with energy efficiency in mind. The facility includes twenty charging stations for electric vehicles, with plans to further expand this capacity in the future.
Emirates has launched Emirates Courier Express, an end-to-end delivery solution that is set to redefine the express delivery experience.
To ensure Emirates Courier Express addressed industry-wide challenges, Emirates worked with various global customers to pilot and finesse the product, with the goal to make it as fast, reliable and flexible as possible, before launching to market. Over the last year, Emirates Courier Express transported several thousands of packages from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, South Africa and the UK. The average delivery time is less than 48 hours. Now, Emirates Courier Express is open for business, for businesses.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Emirates Courier Express is an evolution in how we move goods across the globe, at speed and at scale. Building on our world-class and well-established infrastructure, and reimagining traditional logistics processes where necessary, this innovative solution does not just meet the Emirates Gold Standard of reliability and excellence but sets a new benchmark for what’s possible. This is only the beginning of our vision to continuously innovate and lead the charge in the express delivery sector.”
Traditionally, cross-border delivery is managed via a global hub-and-spoke model, with a package making multiple stops before arriving at its end destination. Emirates Courier Express has broken this mould. Just like passengers, packages will travel from origin to destination directly, leveraging the breadth of Emirates’ vast global network and near-unparalleled flight frequencies. This approach significantly reduces time in transit, reduces package handling and offers Emirates Courier Express customers’ a competitive edge in getting their goods to end users. Direct connectivity is matched with different service levels, ranging from next day urgent delivery to a two-day Premium service, along with a pipeline of innovative new products.
At launch, Emirates Courier Express will be active and available in seven markets, however the potential network growth is unlimited: wherever Emirates flies, Emirates Courier Express can deliver. Expansion to additional markets is already in the works.
Harnessing the fleet of the world’s largest international airline, Emirates Courier Express has access to over 250 all widebody passenger and freighter aircraft to move packages worldwide. Complemented by a trusted, reliable and integrated cross border network of partners to manage the customs clearance and first and last mile transportation, the solution delivers door-to-door. This integration into the airline’s existing infrastructure allows Emirates Courier Express to handle volume fluctuations from seasonal spikes while maintaining cost stability, ultimately empowering customers to plan and budget with confidence.
This seamless integration also enables Emirates Courier Express to provide bespoke and tailored solutions, whether transporting fashion and mobile phones or the most critical medical equipment. A team of dedicated specialists provide niche segment solutions, facilitated by the airline’s extensive freight and logistics infrastructure, including cool chain capacity, allowing the transportation of specialist or sensitive products from launch.
Prioritising ease of business, Emirates Courier Express’ is entirely digital, with a purpose-built tech platform integrating directly into customer software and supports additional bespoke shipping solutions. Advanced tracking systems, real-time updates, and seamless integration, ensures complete efficiency, reliability, quality, and transparency from collection to delivery across the world.
Dennis Lister, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Emirates Courier Express is the result of challenging the status quo. Along with the industry, we watched the increasing volumes of cross border shipping and challenged ourselves to find a better way to transport these goods faster and more efficiently. The new product launch reflects our ongoing commitment to push the boundaries to introduce innovations which drive real impact and ensure our customers always have access to the fastest, most reliable and cost-effective solutions available.”
Evri has announced it will trial an autonomous robot delivery dog later this year.
Last year, Evri celebrated fifty years of deliveries with a nostalgic look back at how delivery and consumer habits have evolved over the past five decades. As part of a report, consumers were asked what they thought the future of delivery would look like; only 16% of respondents thought that robots would eventually be delivering their parcels but for some of our consumers, they won’t have to wait long for this futuristic vision to be realised.
In a UK first, the robotic version of man’s best friend will work in partnership with a courier to deliver parcels in a trial set for summer 2025. There’s no need to keep this dog on a lead – with sophisticated automation, the four-legged robot dog will be able to hop in and out of the courier’s van as it makes its way to and from homes delivering parcels and taking some of the leg work out for the courier.
Marcus Hunter, Chief Technology Officer at Evri, said: “Couriers always have and always will be the heart of our business. Robots will never replace them, but we are dedicated to finding new and innovative methods to support our couriers and increase the speed and convenience of the services we offer. In this next stage of innovation, we are thrilled to introduce both these robot delivery trials, which could provide increased flexibility and choice for consumers.”
The autonomous canine has been developed by RIVR, a Swiss global innovation leader in physical AI. In partnership with Evri, the focus of the trial is to gain insight into how the robot dogs can work with couriers to improve efficiency support with some of the more strenuous parts of the job.
The robot dog trial is just one of several robot trials Evri is conducting as it looks to the future of parcel delivery, with the goal of providing a helping paw to couriers and developing solutions that will complement its delivery offering alongside couriers.
Operating out of Barnsley Business Innovation Centre, a small and light EV robot, developed by Delivers AI, will also soon be out daily delivering parcels with the support of the local courier. This summer, residents on a chosen streets in Barnsley will have the option to have all their parcels delivered by these robots for the three-month trial. Residents will have the option to sign up for the trial via a dedicated website.
These robots can be deployed 24 hours a day, allowing for nighttime deliveries for consumers on different schedules, or more on-demand services with designated time slots for consumers. The robots can also be used to support consumers who need more time to get to the door. Evri expects to uncover unexpected benefits as part of the trial.
Additionally, Evri will be taking the robot into local schools to demonstrate its capabilities to young children and give them the chance to name the robot.
Councillor Robin Franklin, Barnsley Council’s Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be hosting the trial run for this programme in Barnsley, which aligns with the ambition in our new Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy to become the UK’s leading digital town.
“This is an amazing piece of innovation that could revolutionise home deliveries and we wish Evri the best of luck with the trial.”
Deutsche Post is issuing its first stamp on recycled paper with the motif “Flower Letter” from the long-running series “World of Letters”.
The paper, which was developed jointly by Deutsche Post and the British paper manufacturer Tullis Russell, saves resources such as wood, water and electricity and reduces CO2 emissions. The wet-adhesive version of this definitive stamp, worth 95 cents for a standard letter or postcard, was produced from 12.8 tonnes of 100% recycled paper. Instead of the usual euro symbol, the stamp bears a green leaf next to the year. It will be published in a circulation of 82.5 million copies as a ten-sheet sheet and wet-adhesive roll and will be available from 3 April in post offices and online in the Deutsche Post shop.
In addition, this stamp is also available as a self-adhesive version, which is currently still produced on conventional paper due to this product feature. In total, the new “Flower Letter” stamp has a circulation of around 680 million copies. It replaces the previous 95-cent stamp “Ballonpost”. The motif was designed by Bettina Walter, stamp designer at Deutsche Post.
From 2026, it is planned to produce all wet-adhesive variants of the definitive series and the special stamps step by step on recycled paper. To make a distinction: In addition to definitive stamps, which are issued by Deutsche Post in unlimited quantities, there are also special stamps that are issued every month on special occasions and in a certain edition. These are published by the Federal Ministry of Finance.
Deutsche Post is the first postal company to plan to completely convert its wet-adhesive stamps to recycled paper – making it a sustainability pioneer in this area. The logistics company is a member of the Pro Recyclingpapier initiative and pursues the goal of further reducing the consumption of raw materials, CO2 emissions and energy consumption in stamp production.
For more information on stamps , visit deutschepost.de/briefmarke.
Lee Eng Keat, head of strategy and communications at Singapore Post (SingPost), has stepped down from his role reports Marketing Interactive. In a LinkedIn post on Tuesday (1 April), Lee wrote that he has concluded his chapter with the postal service provider and is moving on to explore new opportunities.
“I want to take the opportunity to wish my friends continued success as a number of us would be going through similar transitions and embarking on new roles with different companies,” he added.
Lee plans to pursue his personal passion of mentoring and advising agrifood innovation companies on its scale up and market expansion efforts especially in Southeast Asia.
In addition to Lee’s departure, four other key executives have left their respective positions. Noel Singgih, the provider’s group chief information officer, wrote in a LinkedIn post that he will be stepping down from his role alongside “accomplished colleagues”.
“We stand firmly by the value and impact of our contributions, which were centered on building a globally competitive and expanding SingPost. The current trajectory marks a distinct shift, and its future path will be independent of our past endeavors,” he added.
Michelle Lee, chief sustainability officer at SingPost, said she will be embarking on a new chapter after four years with the company adding that it was a “privilege to contribute to Singapore’s iconic postal and e-commerce logistics service provider”. Audrey Teoh, chief information security officer at SingPost, also announced her departure in a LinkedIn post on Tuesday.
DPD UK has confirmed a significant expansion of its UK out-of-home (OOH) network, adding 8,000 parcel lockers over the next five years, as part of a major strategic partnership with YEEP!
The initiative will see DPD add to its existing network of 12,000 Pickup parcel stores and lockers across the UK.
The YEEP! network comprises open, battery-powered parcel lockers, enabling consumers to conveniently pick up and drop off parcels within their local communities. DPD UK’s parent company, Geopost, is a key partner of kernTerminal, the leading technology provider for turnkey projects of agnostic network solutions.
The UK partnership underscores DPD’s commitment to provide customers with choice, flexibility and convenience by aligning its award winning and market leading next-day home delivery service with a growing OOH network. As a member of Geopost, DPD UK is already in a unique position to offer its customers access to the most developed pan-European Out-of-Home network across 28 countries, consisting in 128 000 points (lockers & parcels shops).
Geopost’s own 2024 E-shopper barometer, highlighted the potential for growth in the UK OOH market with 23% of European regular e-shoppers using lockers, compared to just 12% in the UK.
Elaine Kerr, CEO of DPD UK, commented, “Our focus is always on providing choice and the best possible delivery service for our customers. We are committed to investing in technology that helps consumers control how they receive, send and return parcels. By rolling out 8,000 additional lockers, we are creating more accessible, efficient, and convenient solutions. We know UK consumers love their home deliveries, and that remains our priority, but we can also see that our lockers are hugely popular with regular users. We anticipate this market to grow in the UK in the next five years, as networks expand, and consumers become more familiar with the benefits.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with DPD UK in expanding their parcel locker network,” said Noel Shampton, CEO of YEEP!. “Our innovative, battery-powered lockers are designed to provide unparalleled convenience and efficiency for consumers and businesses alike. This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing the out-of-home delivery landscape in the UK.”
DHL has acquired 100% of CRYOPDP, a leading specialty courier focused on clinical trials, biopharma, and cell and gene therapies.
In this context, the companies also announced a strategic partnership to strengthen their supply chain service offerings for the global life sciences and healthcare sector.
DHL Group already has an established Life Sciences and Healthcare business, contributing over EUR 5 billion in global revenue in 2024. Building on this foundation, the acquisition of CRYOPDP marks a significant step in DHL’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in specialized pharma logistics and expanding the breadth of its offering in the rapidly growing life science and healthcare sector. CRYOPDP specializes in providing white-glove courier services essential to the sectors it serves. With operations in 15 countries, CRYOPDP handles over 600,000 shipments per year, servicing customers and patients in over 135 countries worldwide.
Going forward, DHL Supply Chain will further build the potential of its Pharma Specialised Network solution by leveraging the specialty courier expertise of newly acquired CRYOPDP and the global air capabilities of DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding.
The strategic partnership with Cryoport will bring together DHL’s global health logistics capabilities with Cryoport’s industry-leading expertise in providing specialized solutions in a fast growing life science and healthcare market segment. It also deepens DHL’s relationship with all the Cryoport business units with respect to specialized pharma.
Oscar de Bok, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, stated, “The acquisition of CRYOPDP is a pivotal move for our supply chain business as we aim to expand our Pharma Specialized Network to meet the evolving needs of clinical trials, biopharma and cell & gene therapies, in addition to further increasing our footprint in the conventional pharma and life science healthcare segment. The acquisition of CRYOPDP and the extended partnership with Cryoport Inc. will enable us to deliver integrated end-to-end solutions, enhancing our service capabilities .”
Jerrell Shelton, CEO of Cryoport, commented “We are indeed pleased to build on our trusted relationship with the DHL Group. Working together we will bring an enhanced set of supply chain solutions to meet companies’ and patients’ critical supply chain needs. This strategic partnership taps into the strong expertise of DHL’s Supply Chain and CRYOPDP, presenting a substantial opportunity for Cryoport to further expand its reach to global growth markets such as Asia Pacific (APAC) and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).”
The acquisition aligns with DHL Group’s Strategy 2030, which emphasizes the importance of temperature-controlled networks, first and last mile specialty courier coverage and integrated solutions. CRYOPDP’s capabilities will be instrumental in achieving these objectives and help position DHL as a leader in providing comprehensive solutions for the pharma industry. This strategic move is also expected to yield cost savings and improve overall service levels, especially leveraging DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding air capabilities, ultimately enhancing DHL’s footprint in the high-value advanced pharma sector.
For Cryoport, the partnership with DHL will enable it to better execute its business in EMEA and APAC with a stronger focus on its core business in these regions, creating even greater opportunities to offer highly targeted, top-tier services in answering market demand for its services and products.
The deal and the outlined partnership are subject to regulatory approvals.
UK logistics specialists in e-fulfilment, mail and parcels, Whistl, has appointed Natalie Sehnal as Director of Fulfilment and Contact Centre Solutions.
Natalie, who has been with the business for over 22 years, will be responsible for Whistl’s Contact Centre Solutions operations based in the North East and South West of the UK.
Whistl offers outsourced inbound and outbound Multi-Channel and Omni-channel Contact Centre Solutions from UK based, PCI accredited sites.
Natalie commented, “I am delighted to take on this role, working with our award-winning team who are recognised for their personal and empathetic approach when dealing with enquiries and outbound campaign activity.”
The company supports a variety of customers in sectors ranging from care homes, financial assistance providers, retail brands and entertainment venues with companies including Museum Selection, Swoon, TOCA Social and J.Parkers.
As resolved by the Board of Directors at the meeting held on 26 March, 2025, Poste Italiane has signed an agreement for the acquisition from Vivendi of ordinary shares of Telecom Italia. corresponding to 15.00% of the total ordinary shares and 10.77% of TIM’s total share capital.
Upon completion, expected by the first half of 2025, Poste Italiane – already a shareholder with 9.81% of the ordinary shares acquired from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A. on February 15, 2025 –
will hold a total of 24.81% of the ordinary shares and 17.81% of the entire share capital of TIM, becoming its largest shareholder. In any case, Poste Italiane does not intend to acquire a stake
exceeding the relevant mandatory public tender offer threshold.
The consideration for the purchase of the shares, amounting to € 684 million (at a price of € 0.2975 per share), will be financed through available cash.
The completion of the transaction is subject to notification to the Italian Competition Authority, in accordance with the rules on control of concentrations between companies.
The transaction represents a strategic investment for Poste Italiane, carried out with the aim of playing the role of long-term industrial shareholder, generating synergies between Poste Italiane and TIM bringing added value to all stakeholders, and supporting the consolidation of the Italian telecommunications market.
As previously communicated, negotiations are at an advanced stage for the provision of services to grant Postepay- a company wholly owned by Poste Italiane – access to TIM’s mobile network infrastructure starting from January 1, 2026.
Furthermore, evaluations are underway to establish industrial partnerships leveraging on multiple opportunities to generate synergies between the two companies across the following sectors of i)
telephony, ICT services and media content, ii) financial, insurance and payment services, and iii) energy.
Singapore Post Limited has announced the successful completion of the divestment of its Australian logistics business, Freight Management Holdings to Pacific Equity Partners.
The sale, valued at an enterprise value of A$1.02 billion (approximately S$867.0 million), marks a significant milestone in SingPost’s Board-led Strategic Review to unlock value for its shareholders.
The transaction follows overwhelming approval at the Extraordinary General Meeting (“EGM”) held on March 13, 2025 where the resolution secured shareholders’ 99% vote in favor. The divestment, resulting from a highly competitive international bidding process, generated gross proceeds of approximately A$781.5 million (S$664.2 million) and an expected gain of S$289.5 million1 for the Group. This reflects a levered return on equity of approximately 4 times the SingPost Group’s A$93.6 million equity investment in FMH over the last 4 years.
Proceeds Allocation, Strategic Reset & Future of Options
SingPost has indicated it will allocate the sale proceeds towards reducing debt, including the repayment of A$362.1 million (S$307.8 million) in borrowings related to the FMH acquisition. Additionally, the Board will in due course disclose the amount of the Special Dividend in compliance with the SGX-ST listing rules.
The sale necessitates a strategy reset for the Group, with earnings in the interim dependent on SingPost’s Singapore Postal / eCommerce Logistics business, the International eCommerce Logistics business and two major non-core assets – the SingPost Centre and Famous Holdings – both of which have been performing well.
The successful divestment of the Australia business, along with potential future divestitures, will create a significant cash pool. This will allow SingPost to reinvest in its future, reduce debt, or return proceeds to shareholders, with the Board ensuring these options align with shareholder interests.
InPost Group announced strong results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024. The Group delivered a record-breaking year in terms of volumes, revenues, and Adjusted EBITDA, almost doubling the EPS and making significant progress in expanding its out-of-home (OOH) network and operations across Europe.
Financial highlights
Parcel volume: 1.1 billion (+22% YoY)
Revenue: PLN 10.9 billion (+23.5% YoY)
Adjusted EBITDA: PLN 3.6 billion (+33.5% YoY)
Executive Summary Q4 2024
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Record Group volume: In Q4 2024, the Group’s parcel volume reached 322 million, a 20% year-over-year increase. InPost Poland and international markets contributed to this growth, with YoY improvements of 20% and 21%, respectively, both exceeding market levels.
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Healthy Group revenue growth: Group revenue grew by 26.4% in Q4 2024, reaching PLN 3.4 billion. This was driven by strong volume growth in Poland and the UK, as well as the consolidation of the Menzies Newstrade segment.
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Continued Adjusted EBITDA growth: Group Adjusted EBITDA reached PLN 1.1 billion in Q4 2024, a 35.7% YoY increase, with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 34.2%. The key contributors to this growth were the markets in Poland and the UK.
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Positive Free Cash Flow and deleveraging: InPost generated positive Free Cash Flow (FCF) of PLN 355.6 million at the Group level in Q4 2024. In Poland, FCF reached PLN 594.0 million, with a 68% FCF/Adjusted EBITDA conversion (compared to 53% in Q4 2023). This financial strength supports the Group’s rapid expansion across Europe. Net leverage decreased to 1.9x in Q4 2024, down from 2.2x in Q4 2023.
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Strategic growth through investment: InPost invested PLN 413.5 million in CAPEX in Q4 2024, a 32.1% YoY increase, driven by business expansion and network development. Of this investment, 63% was allocated to international expansion. The CAPEX-to-revenue ratio increased slightly to 12.3% (compared to 11.8% in Q4 2023).
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Poland’s volume surpassed market growth while maintaining high margins: In Q4 2024, InPost delivered 210 million parcels in Poland, a 20% YoY increase. Growth was driven by SME merchants, the fashion segment, and local and international marketplaces. Poland’s revenue reached PLN 1.9 billion (up 15.0% YoY), with Adjusted EBITDA increasing to PLN 879.5 million (up 19.2% YoY). Margins remained strong at 47.2%, compared to 45.5% in Q4 2023.
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Mondial Relay delivered strong B2C growth while improving profitability. In Q4 2024, Mondial Relay handled 78 million parcels, a 10% year-over-year increase, driven by 28% growth in the B2C sector. The Adjusted EBITDA margin improved to 17.3%, up from 12.6% a year ago, benefiting from scale, product mix effects, and operational improvements.
- The UK and Italy saw notable revenue growth and profitability improvements. The Other International segment, which includes the UK and Italy, recorded a 56% increase in volume growth in Q4 2024. Revenue rose to PLN 587.7 million, a 151% YoY increase, while Adjusted EBITDA reached PLN 111.3 million, a significant improvement from PLN 7 million the previous year. These results were driven by enhanced logistics operations, network expansion, and the consolidation of Menzies Newstrade, which began in Q4 2024.
- 2025 Outlook: Group revenue is expected to grow year-over-year in the high-teens to low-twenties range, surpassing market volume growth across all geographies. Adjusted EBITDA is projected to increase in the low to mid-twenties. The company plans to accelerate deployment to over 14,000 APMs across all markets.
- Q1 Trading Update: In Poland, volume growth is expected to be around 10%, outperforming a softer e-commerce market and achieving year-over-year growth across all segments despite a high baseline from Q1 2024. Internationally, InPost anticipates approximately 17% YoY volume growth, continuing to outpace market trends.
Rafał Brzoska, Founder and CEO of InPost Group, commented: “Looking back at 2024, we are excited to celebrate a year full of amazing achievements across all markets. The strong results of 2024 show that our vision and our strategic choices resonate well with both merchants and consumers. By focusing on our customers, innovation, and quality, we’ve built a solid foundation that has helped us reach new milestones, and that sets us up for continued success in the future.
In 2024, InPost saw high growth, delivering over 1.1 billion parcels – a 22% increase from 2023. We grew faster than the e-commerce market, and increased our market share in all key regions. Last year’s peak once again proved that InPost is the most reliable and, therefore, the preferred partner for customers and merchants alike. Our financial results reflect this success. Our revenue hit a new high, which demonstrates our strong performance and market leadership.
We are expanding our network in Europe. Last year, we installed over 11,500 new APMs, growing our network by 32% compared to 2023, and solidified our top position in APM networks in Poland, France, and the UK. In the European markets where we are currently active, we rank third in terms of total combined volume among B2C e-commerce logistic carriers.
With our focus on customer-centricity and our proven ability to deliver new tech-enabled digital services to e-merchants, InPost is continuing to strengthen its position as the partner of choice for e-merchants in its key markets. In Poland, where we lead market collaboration with e-commerce shoppers, InPost developed InPost Pay and the newly introduced Loyalty Programme, reaching 14 million app users, with an opportunity to continue adding more innovative digital services that will entrench mutual customer and merchant loyalty as we accelerate heavy and medium user engagement. We deliver the best quality and convenience, as a result of which the InPost brand scores, by far, the highest NPS and the highest number of promoters in the market. In the UK and France, we are on the path to replicate that same service, logistics quality, and focus on UX.
Since our IPO in 2021 we consistently deliver on our unchanged strategy and that is also the focus in 2025.”
Cainiao has delivered southern Vietnam’s largest automated sorting centre to one of the country’s leading courier companies.
Designed and developed in-house by Cainiao, the state-of-the-art sorting centre integrates multiple smart logistics technologies, including automated parcel separation, multi-layer cross-belt sorters, and sorting robots. By leveraging AI and digital solutions, the system efficiently handles bulk shipments, processing parcels of all sizes and shapes while ensuring real-time tracking and an accuracy rate of over 99%.
Despite the project’s complexity and challenges, including typhoon-related shipping delays, Cainiao’s team completed the delivery and deployment in just 100 days, cutting the usual timeline by 30%.
“China’s massive e-commerce ecosystem has driven some of the world’s most advanced logistics technologies. Unlike traditional automation providers, Cainiao is a global logistics leader itself. Our automation solutions are designed for real-world operations, making them highly practical and efficient for improving sorting capabilities and enhancing the customer experience,” said Jeff Lyu, Cainiao Project Lead.
Vietnam’s e-commerce market is one of the fastest-growing in Southeast Asia, fuelled by increasing digital adoption and rising cross-border trade. As demand surges, logistics providers are under pressures to deliver faster, more scalable, and cost-effective fulfilment solutions.
Southeast Asia is a key market for Cainiao’s logistics technology, where the company has rolled out warehouse automation, sorting solutions, and digital logistics in countries like Thailand and Singapore. To further strengthen local project delivery, Cainiao has established a dedicated APAC logistics technology team.
“At Cainiao, we see innovation and technology as the backbone of efficient logistics and the key to sustainable e-commerce growth. We remain committed to delivering leading solutions that help global businesses scale efficiently and stay competitive,” Lyu added.
Cainiao has a strong track record of delivering cutting-edge logistics technology worldwide. In South America, it developed the region’s first national hybrid sorting centre for a leading cross-border e-commerce logistics provider, capable of handling 50,000 parcels per hour. In North America, its AI-powered supply chain solutions helped a major Mexican telecom operator improve sales forecasting accuracy by 20% and triple operational efficiency. In Western Europe, Cainiao introduced RFID-enabled cross-border tracking for a global logistics provider, reducing scanning costs by 87%. To date, Cainiao has successfully delivered over 600 automation and digitalization projects across 28 countries.
UPS has launched UPS Global Checkout, an new service that makes it even easier for consumers around the world to buy online from shippers around the world.
Until now, international purchases often arrived with an unpleasant surprise – an additional bill for unpaid import costs. UPS Global Checkout solves that problem by guaranteeing upfront the amount online shoppers pay in duties, fees and taxes, and eliminating the frustration of unexpected costs at delivery.
UPS is the only global integrated carrier to offer a guaranteed landed cost solution for international shipping that is seamlessly incorporated into its shipping technology, transforming the shopping experience and offering complete transparency on costs. With updates in near real time, the service adjusts to policy changes, international tax laws, duties and tariffs, helping to avoid surprise costs and offering a positive delivery experience. Available in 43 origin countries and delivering to more than 200 destinations worldwide, the service helps businesses of all sizes grow globally by streamlining international shipping.
“With UPS Global Checkout, we’re making international shopping around the world as easy as buying in-store,” said Kate Gutmann, EVP and president of International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions at UPS. “Online shoppers can now enjoy full transparency and peace of mind with no surprises, knowing what they pay at checkout is the total cost for a cross-border purchase. This, combined with our total UPS premium delivery experience, benefits our customers – the retailers – by helping to drive additional sales. Given trade shifts around the world, expanding growth opportunities in new markets can now be seamless.”
Customs duties, taxes and fees are a significant concern for international shoppers. Every day, tens of thousands of residential deliveries around the world arrive with duties and taxes payable on delivery. And a survey of U.S. and U.K. shoppers found 41% were deterred from buying from an international e-commerce site if the amount of duties and taxes was not crystal clear at checkout.
“This new service addresses a need that we know is important for customers shipping internationally by providing clarity and confidence to people ordering their products,’’ said Daniel Carrera, president, UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. ‘’We’re working to offer new, market-leading capabilities that not only make it easier for businesses of all sizes to compete globally, but also provide an unparalleled consumer experience.’’
Royal Mail has successfully reached its target of 90% automation across its parcel operations.
The milestone is a significant achievement, marking a major step forward in efficiency and improved service.
It forms part of the business’s wider modernisation strategy, which has seen substantial changes across Royal Mail.
The company beat the target this month following years of investment, which saw:
- The opening of two state-of-the-art, automated parcel hubs in Warrington and Daventry which can process up to 1.5 million parcels a day combined.
- The addition of 10 specially designed large parcel conveyors at mail centres across the country, to manage bigger parcels.
- Three new high-speed Parcel Sortation Machines added to mail centres in Leeds, Plymouth and Exeter, each one increasing processing by 21,000 parcels per hour.
Each has boosted the quick handling of deliveries, especially during the Christmas and peak periods, meeting the growing demand for items to arrive the next day.
This drive for modernisation has even led to some of the business’s oldest products being upgraded.
Earlier this month Royal Mail updated its app, making it possible for customers to request proof of postage when they drop-off smaller parcels and packets with a barcode at the 115,000 postboxes in the UK.
Late last year, Royal Mail was the first delivery company in the world to add digital tracking to its containers used for transporting letters and parcels. The tags transmit live data on location, humidity and temperature as they travel around the country.
In 2023, the company upgraded postage stamps, adding digital barcodes to improve tracking and dramatically reduce counterfeits.
Alistair Cochrane, Royal Mail’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Reaching 90% automation is a key milestone in our mission to deliver a modern, more efficient Royal Mail.
“We will continue to explore new technologies to enhance our performance and meet the evolving needs of our customers, while also supporting our workforce with cutting-edge technology.”
Robert M. “Mike” Duncan, one of the Governors of the United States Postal Service, today announced that he is resigning his position on the board of governors due to health reasons.
His resignation is effective immediately. Duncan has served on the board since August 2018 and was chairman from September 2018 to February 2021. Duncan’s current term on the board was set to expire this December. A copy of his letter of resignation can be found here.
“My fellow governors and I are grateful to Mike Duncan for his service to this Board and to the Postal Service,” said Amber McReynolds, chairwoman. “In 2018, Mike was tasked with re-establishing the Board’s governance and operations after it had gone more than a year without any presidentially appointed governors. His leadership and vision for the Postal Service have played a big role in our efforts to create long-term sustainability for this critical organisation.”
“Mike Duncan’s business and political acumen was a great asset to the Postal Service during a period of historic transformation,” said acting Postmaster General Doug Tulino. “He has been an important leader for the Board, and Postal Service leadership is happy to have had his counsel and insights during this critical time.”
The Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service consists of nine governors appointed by the President of the United States with the advice and consent of the Senate, the Postmaster General and the Deputy Postmaster General. The governors select the Postmaster General, and those ten members of the Board select the Deputy Postmaster General.
Descartes Systems Group has acquired 3GTMS (3G), a provider of transportation management solutions.
Based in the US, 3G’s transportation management solutions combine modern cloud architecture, an expansive carrier network, and planning-driven automation to help customers improve costs, customer satisfaction, and efficiency. Shippers, third-party logistics providers and freight brokers leverage 3G’s platform to optimize domestic over-the-road shipments with tools for planning, rating, consolidation, and routing that cover the entire shipment lifecycle.
“3G’s solution footprint for freight in North America is highly complementary, bringing strong domestic transportation management functionality for truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), and parcel modes,” said Andrew Roszko, Chief Commercial Officer at Descartes. “The acquisition also expands our carrier reach in North America, including the addition of a network of API-integrated LTL carriers. When combined with Descartes’ existing transportation management tools and our Global Logistics Network, we see a tremendous opportunity to deliver even more value to our combined customer base.”
“Much like Descartes, 3G has been successfully building solutions that connect shippers, carriers and logistics services providers to efficiently digitize and manage the lifecycle of shipments,” said Edward J. Ryan, Descartes’ CEO. “We look forward to working with 3G’s team of deep domain experts to bring our products together and we’re thrilled to welcome 3G’s partners and customers into the Descartes family.”
3G is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Descartes acquired 3G for approximately US $115 million, satisfied from cash on hand. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP served as legal counsel and Lincoln International LLC served as financial advisor to 3G, while Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP served as legal counsel and Centerview Partners LLC served as financial advisor to Descartes.
PostNord is trialling groundbreaking megawatt charging with funding from Horizon Europe and in collaboration with Finnish university Teknologian Tutkimuskeskus VTT Oy and several leading charging companies. The MACBETH project is part of PostNord’s target to achieve fossil-free operations by 2030.
“Through programs like Horizon Europe, the EU provides money for research and innovation projects within sustainability”, says Mie Munck Bielefeldt, Commercial Sustainability Manager at PostNord Denmark. “We have been trying to position PostNord as an interesting partner for whoever was already seeking this money. The aim is to test new technologies within sustainability and support PostNord’s green agenda.”
Test driving megawatt charging systems
Central to the MACBETH project is the development and installation of megawatt charging systems (MCS), a new technology that can charge electric vehicles at a very high rate. Despite technological strides, significant challenges still need to be addressed before fully implementing such systems on a large scale.
The project will see the installation and testing of MCS at strategic locations in the Nordics, primarily within heavy vehicle charging infrastructure in Sweden, as an addition to the semi-public charging facilities at PostNord’s own terminals. In collaboration with VTT, which is responsible for developing the technology, PostNord will help test the viability of these chargers over a three-year period, providing crucial insights into how heavy-duty trucks can utilize public charging infrastructure.
“What we hope to get out of the project, besides the validation and testing of the new technology, is research and studies showing the public grid’s ability to support megawatt charging, also in very cold conditions such as in northern Scandinavia”, says Mie. “We will be collaborating and sharing data to produce final public research that will not only help Denmark but any company or country in Europe willing to develop megawatt charging.”
Several leading charging companies will build the public charging infrastructure, while PostNord will provide the trucks for testing. From early 2025, PostNord Denmark will have its first five electric trucks in operation, with one designated for selected routes within the project.
“We will have one of the trucks running on these selected routes and, in exchange, get electricity cheaply in these specific locations. We believe this is going to build some momentum for switching to electric vehicles, which is what we need to do to reach our 2030 goal”, says Mie.
Data-driven insights
The data from PostNord will be crucial for evaluating the MCS’s performance and advancing its development. It will provide insights into how electric vehicles perform in cold weather, impacting battery range and charging time. This information will aid the EU and other partners in implementing megawatt charging on a larger scale.
“The plan is to drive the trucks to either Norway or Finland, and then share the knowledge of how they work in winter when it is really cold, and how it works when the weather is better”, says Christian Nordling, Director Health, Safety, Security & Environment at PostNord Denmark. “Then you have all this data shared into the EU as learning points that will help build the infrastructure in the future.”
The future of long-haul transport
For PostNord, proving the feasibility of electrifying long-distance transport is critical. If successful, the MACBETH project could significantly contribute to the company’s goal of achieving fossil-free operations by 2030.
“It is very important for PostNord to prove that it is possible to electrify long-distance transport. If we succeed with this project to do these long-distance trips electrically, then there is a way forward to electrifying the whole fleet”, says Christian.
Through the MACBETH project, PostNord is not only advancing its sustainability goals but also paving the way for greener long-haul transport across Europe. Christian’s ambition is to show that electrification is both possible and viable for others to adopt in the near future. “My plan is to show that this business case is good and to accelerate electrification.”
FedEx Corporation has announced the launch of a new service, FedEx Easy Returns, supported by Blue Yonder.
This offering will allow FedEx customers to access a low-cost, box- and label-free returns solution launching with approximately 3,000 drop-off locations in the trusted returns network of FedEx Office and Kohl’s stores with plans for swift growth across the U.S.
FedEx Easy Returns aims to simplify the returns process for consumers by offering a hassle-free returns option at numerous convenient locations. Consumers will be able to return their items without needing to print labels or have packaging, enhancing the overall convenience of the returns experience.
The new service will also help streamline the returns experience for merchants. Returns will be routed through a reverse logistics facility for optimal recovery, helping merchants ensure the accuracy and speed of the return, as well as potentially reducing waste.
“FedEx is excited to launch the new FedEx Easy Returns solution to help provide a convenient, hassle-free returns solution to even more consumers in 2025,” said Jason Brenner, senior vice president, digital portfolio at FedEx. “This new service, supported by Blue Yonder, expands our growing network of drop-off locations conveniently located across the country.”
“Returns are a critical part of the customer experience, and present a significant challenge to retailers, which is why we are excited to support FedEx with the new service to make returns more efficient,” said Tim Robinson, vice president, Returns, Blue Yonder.
Österreichische Post AG is significantly expanding its 24/7 parcel collection locations in Carinthia.
In the next few weeks alone, new post offices will be built at 13 locations, bringing the number in the state to around 90. Austrian Post expects that in 2025 more than one million parcels will be processed via 24/7 locations in Carinthia for the first time. This means that each Carinthian will pick up or send an average of two parcels in this way.
The 24/7 expansion was announced at the opening of the latest post office at the headquarters of Infineon Austria in Villach.
Walter Oblin, CEO of Österreichische Post AG: “Our claim is that Carinthians can receive their online orders at any time and at a desired location. A successful example of our 24/7 expansion is the new post office at Infineon, through which around 4,900 employees and surrounding households can pick up their parcels around the clock. All parties involved benefit from a cooperation like the one with Infineon, namely companies, employees and Austrian Post.”
Sabine Herlitschka, Chief Executive Officer, Infineon Technologies Austria AG: “As one of the largest employers in Carinthia, it is particularly important to us to offer our employees the best possible support in everyday life. With the new post office, we are creating an additional service that not only saves long distances, but also simplifies daily logistics. We are pleased to offer this practical service together with Austrian Post and thus make another small contribution to the quality of life of our workforce and our residents in Villach.”
Harald Sobe, City Councillor, Villach: “The City of Villach, Österreichische Post AG and Infineon Technologies Austria AG have always worked together on the best of terms. Villach is a modern city, and we very much welcome the expansion of the new post offices. For Villach, it is important that the network of locations is further expanded and that the existing post offices are maintained.”
UK palletised freight distribution network, Pall-Ex, has confirmed Glen Strangeway will be taking on the newly created Head of International role; a strategic appointment to support the network’s overseas expansion.
With extensive experience working within Pall-Ex’s UK Commercial team Glen’s new role will see him support Pall-Ex’s European partners and continue to grow their international cross-border volume.
Speaking of his appointment, Glen comments: “Having already worked across sales and corporate roles for Pall-Ex, I am looking forward to embracing a new challenge by stepping into the Head of International role. The growth of our international networks is a key business objective for Pall-Ex, and we have had some fantastic success stories over the 12 months including Pall-Ex Italias 15th anniversary and the opening of a state-of-the-art hub in Romania. 2025 looks just as exciting, with several new company partners in the pipeline.”
Glen will work closely with Pall-Ex’s International Director, Sue Buchanan and Giovanni Pallastrelli, Managing Director of Pall-Ex Europe, overseeing a wider team to support cross-border growth and strengthen relationships with the Group’s existing European partners.
Giovanni comments: “Glen was the natural choice for this position. Successful within our UK commercial department, he has the skill set to support the team in accomplishing our European growth targets and growing our cross-border services. I look forward to working with Glen, increasing our European volumes and seeing our network develop into new countries.”
Alibaba.com and Kwik, a leading digital platform for logistics services in Nigeria, announce today a partnership to support Nigerian exporters.
Kwik is now an official Authorized Channel Partner of Alibaba.com in Nigeria, the first such partnership signed by Alibaba.com in Sub-Saharan Africa. Kwik will market the Alibaba.com platform to Nigerian manufacturers, producers and exporters.
Alibaba.com and Kwik are introducing today a series of special rates for Nigerian manufacturers and exporters to acquire membership on the Alibaba.com platform as well as associated features and benefits.
“This partnership with Alibaba.com sends a very strong signal to Nigerian businesses: accessing the world’s markets is a few clicks away! Competing globally creates jobs and will play a key role in lifting up the Nigerian economy” declared Romain Poirot-Lellig, Founder & CEO of Kwik. “There is a strong complementarity between our portfolio of customers and Alibaba.com’s platform.”
“We are excited to partner with Kwik by offering great opportunities to Nigerian exporters to access millions of buyers around the world” declared Foncel Lan, Head of Global Potential Countries, Alibaba.com.
USPS has announced a leadership transition for the Postmaster General and CEO
“After nearly five years as America’s 75th Postmaster General, and after informing the Governors in February of my intention to retire, I have today informed the Postal Service Board of Governors that today will be my last day in this role. I believe strongly that the organisation is well positioned and capable of carrying forward and fully implementing the many strategies and initiatives that comprise our transformation and modernisation, and I have been working closely with the Deputy Postmaster General to prepare for this transition.
While our management team and the men and women of the Postal Service have established the path toward financial sustainability and high operating performance – and we have instituted enormous beneficial change to what had been an adrift and moribund organisation – much work remains that is necessary to sustain our positive trajectory. I am confident that Doug will continue our positive momentum during the period when the Governors undertake the important work of identifying and selecting the next Postmaster General. I also have no doubt that the entirety of the Postal Service will aggressively shape its future and become more efficient, capable, and competitive as it continuously changes and improves to best serve the American public.
It is with great pride that I pass the baton to Deputy Postmaster General, Doug Tulino, until the Governors name my permanent successor. The Governors have hired a search firm in support of those efforts, which are well underway. I shall cheer on America’s 76th Postmaster General and the 640,000 men and women of the United States Postal Service who I have called my colleagues and friends for close to five years. It has been one of the pleasures of my life and a crowning achievement of my career to have been associated with this cherished institution, the United State Postal Service.”
United States Postal Service Chair Amber McReynolds
“Louis DeJoy has steadfastly served the nation and the Postal Service over the past five years,” said Amber McReynolds, chairwoman of the Board of Governors. “The Governors greatly appreciate his enduring leadership and his tireless efforts to modernise the Postal Service and reverse decades of neglect.” McReynolds added, “Louis is a fighter, and he has fought hard for the women and men of the Postal Service and to ensure that the American people have reliable and affordable service for years to come. I commend Postmaster General DeJoy for inspiring the Postal Service with strategic direction, a competitive spirit, and a culture of achievement that comes from the successful implementation of large-scale change. I have seen this spirit of purpose grow steadily during my time on the Board of Governors, and I am confident it will continue to grow as progress begets further progress, and the promise of a transformed and modernised Postal Service is fully realised.”
The IPC UNEX 2024 CEN measurement results released today show that in 2024, mail was delivered in 3.9 days on average. 55.5% of the mail has been delivered in three working days (speed indicator) and 84.2% in five working days (reliability indicator).
Holger Winklbauer, IPC CEO said: “This year’s UNEX results reflect the changing market reality posts are operating in. In a market with continuously declining letter mail volumes, European postal operators face the challenge of maintaining cost-efficient and reliable cross-border logistic operations, complicated by the unavailability of air transport for letter mail on most flows within Europe. At the same time, operators are increasingly prioritising e-commerce postal products, in line with consumers’ demand.”
Declining mail volumes in Europe have pushed posts to shift their operational attention away from letter mail towards tracked and registered products. In addition, the relaxation of domestic service standards for the postal operators accepted by many national regulators also has an impact on the overall performance and makes it even more challenging to achieve the regulatory end-to-end postal objectives defined by the EU Postal Directive.
The 2024 performance levels of postal operators in Europe were also affected by the structural challenge to attract and retain staff in specific jobs and/or geographical areas, the consequences of cyber-attacks and multiple strikes, as well as the natural disasters which hit different European countries, disrupting postal domestic operations and end-to-end cross-border mail traffic.
The IPC UNEX CEN measurement is end-to-end: from posting in the origin country, to delivering to the final addressee in the destination country. Due to the end-to-end nature of the measurement, the challenges encountered in the posts impacted their postal partners and vice versa. This includes the postal operations’ time for collection in the origin country, sorting, international transportation, and processing and delivery in the destination country.
The UNEX results published today are from the UNEX CEN measurement, which is conducted independently by the external research firm Kantar in the United Kingdom.
The 2024 results of the UNEX CEN module are based on a total of 130,000 test letters sent and received by 4,100 volunteers spread across 31 countries participating in the measurement; the 27 EU Member States together with Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Overall, 674 country-to-country flows were measured. IPC’s UNEX mail monitoring system measures quality of service performance for end-to-end cross-border priority letter mail. The test letters are representative of real mail in terms of mail formats, induction and franking methods, delivery methods and geographical spread within each of the measured European countries. All test letters contained Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, which are recorded by the RFID readers as they pass through the postal facilities.
The UNEX™ results 2024 brochure is available at: Results | International Post Corporation (ipc.be)
The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has introduced promotional lower rates for domestic and international tracked/registered mail services including its Express Mail Service to boost its market position and to make the service more economical for the public, giving more value for their money.
According to Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos, the new rates will provide the public with more affordable courier services compared to current market prices, helping them save on mailing expenses.
He added, PHLPost was able to reduce the rates thanks to good governance practices that significantly improved efficiency and operations within the government-owned corporation.
“We are proud to share the benefits of our operational improvements with the public. This new promotion, which significantly reduced the rates of our domestic and International Mail Services, is part of our commitment to better serve our customers and contribute to Filipino communities’ economic well-being,” PMG Carlos said.
According to PMG Carlos, the public had long been disadvantaged due to rising courier rates, especially from privately operated courier services. “Now, with these new promo rates, we offer them a better choice—one that will enable them to fulfill their mailing needs at a fraction of the cost,” he stated.
The basis for the computation for the new applicable rates shall be based on the volumetric weight of the mails and packages. In addition, the new rates vary depending on the delivery areas/regions, far away cities and populated areas including those that are difficult to reach.
A Domestic Tracked Item mailed and for delivery within the National Capital Region is only P25.00 for the first 50 grams, which is very affordable and one that provides information of the date of mailing and date of its delivery.
PHLPost’s promotional rates for its international mail service are the lowest in the market. For example, sending a 1.5 kg ordinary mail to Japan will cost only Php 1,680, while sending the same to Singapore will cost Php 1,254. If you’re sending it to Australia, it will cost only Php 1,870. The rate to Canada is Php 2,291, to the United Kingdom it is Php 1,823, and to the United States, it is Php 2,250.
Meanwhile, the rate for Domestic Ordinary Mail (non-trackable items) is still subject to the approval of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on the increase of postage rate.
For PHLPost’s International Express Mail Service, the rates vary depending on the destination. For packages bound for Australia, the rate starts at Php444.50 for the first 500 grams and increases to Php2,413 for the first kilogram. For packages heading to the United Kingdom, the rate begins at Php513.50 for the first 500 grams and rises to Php3,018 for the first kilogram. For packages bound for the United States, the rate starts at PhP631.50 for the first 500 grams and reaches Php2,182 for the first kilogram. Lastly, for packages destined for Singapore, the rate is Php240 for the first 500 grams and Php1,167 for the first kilogram.
With the introduction of the promotional rates, the PHLPost anticipates increased usage of PHLPost services. The organisation also assures the public of the efficiency and reliability of their services.
“We are confident that more people will turn to PHLPost for their mailing needs locally and internationally. Our commitment to providing efficient and reliable services remains unwavering, ensuring that our customers receive the best possible experience,” PMG Carlos said.
For a complete list of promotional lower rates for international mail services, please visit PHLPost website at www.phlpost.gov.ph.
“Even with the new rates, we assure the public that their mail and packages will be handled with the efficiency and highest standards of service,” PMG Carlos said.
PHLPost has introduced the promotional lower rates due to operations cost-saving measures, streamlined operations, and a renewed focus on transparency and accountability. These efforts have allowed the corporation to pass on savings directly to its customers, aligning with its mission to provide affordable and reliable postal services to Filipinos nationwide.
The United States Postal Service is implementing refinements to service standards and has launched new online tools and a fact sheet to help customers prepare for the changes.
These adjustments will affect First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Marketing Mail, Package Services (including Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail), USPS Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, and Priority Mail Express.
The enhancements are estimated to save the Postal Service at least $36 billion over the next decade through reductions in transportation, mail and package processing and real estate costs. The service standards refinement will occur in two phases to ensure effective operational implementation: the first phase will begin April 1. The second phase will start July 1.
As part of the ongoing Delivering for America 10-year plan, USPS has already achieved $2.2 billion in annual transportation cost reductions by streamlining networks and optimizing air and surface options. Additionally, it has decreased work hours by 50 million — translating to $2.5 billion in annual savings, by enhancing plant productivity and closing unnecessary facilities. At the same time, the Postal Service has increased revenue by $3.5 billion annually by adapting product offerings amidst significant declines in First-Class Mail volume.
These newly enhanced service standards align with the Postal Service’s operational goals and enable the organization to realize the projected savings while also:
- Preserving the current service standard day ranges for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage, thus ensuring the standard First-Class Mail delivery time will not exceed 5 days.
- Enhancing service predictability and reliability.
- Offering 2-3-day turnaround service within regions and specific local areas.
- Allowing flexibility in regional transportation schedules, which may extend service expectations by one day for mail collected at certain Post Offices, while overall improving delivery speeds for mail and packages between regions.
In preparation for these upcoming changes, USPS has developed user-friendly tools to assist customers in understanding expected delivery times for their mail.
Available now:
- Detailed file specifications for downloadable files with the new standards are available on PostalPro (Service Standards | PostalPro).
- The service standards Application Programming Interface (API) has been updated to include a new presort indicator for First-Class Mail standards. API specs are available now on the USPS Developer Portal (https://developers.usps.com/)
Starting March 24:
- Customers can look up service standards on usps.com for mailings from one ZIP Code to another on a particular mailing date. The search results will display the available mail classes along with the expected delivery dates for each.
- A new interactive map will be available that will display service standards. Customers will be able to enter the ZIP Code they are mailing from along with the mail class to view the expected delivery time.
For additional information about the service standard changes, please go to: https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/details.htm#fcps
One year after launching its logistics network in Mexico, Cainiao continues to establish itself as a disruptive force in last-mile delivery. Local delivery has reached new milestones, with three-day delivery now covering key cities nationwide and the fastest two-day service available in Mexico City and major areas of the State of Mexico.
In addition to speeding up local fulfilment, Cainiao pioneered five-day cross-border delivery from China to Mexico and is the only provider with full coverage across the State of Mexico, greatly enhancing the cross-border shopping experience for Mexican consumers.
Since entering the Mexican market in early 2024, Cainiao has continued to expand its investments in local infrastructure, including hubs, sorting centers, and warehouses. Its logistics network now spans 20 states, up from 18 just two months ago, reflecting its rapid growth and long-term commitment to the local market.
Mexico’s booming manufacturing and e-commerce sectors are pushing logistics providers to scale up capacity and efficiency. To support this growth, Cainiao opened a national sorting center near Mexico City in September last year, further improving delivery speed. Equipped with advanced automation and smart logistics technology such as automated conveyor systems and digitalized tracking solutions, the facility has significantly increased package processing efficiency, ensuring on-time delivery even during peak periods.
“Logistics is undergoing a major transformation as e-commerce growth accelerates, creating both challenges and opportunities in how goods move across borders and within cities,” said Jason He, Cainiao’s Mexico Country Lead. “With our advanced technology and years of experience in e-commerce logistics, we provide delivery services that are built for e-commerce from the ground up—fast, reliable, and optimized for the needs of online platforms and retailers in Mexico. Mexico is a high-potential market with strong growth in e-commerce, and we are committed investing in the region for the long term.”
dLocal, a cross-border payment platform connecting global merchants to emerging markets, has announced a strategic partnership with Temu, the global e-commerce platform known for affordable products.
This collaboration enhances the shopping experience for millions of customers in 14 emerging markets across Africa, Asia, and Latin America by offering seamless and secure payment options tailored to local preferences.
Emerging markets often face significant barriers to accessing global e-commerce, including limited payment options and high unbanked populations. According to the
World Bank, 1.4 billion adults globally remain unbanked, with many concentrated in high-growth regions. Additionally, inadequate payment solutions contribute to cart abandonment rates exceeding 70% in markets lacking localized options.
Through this partnership, dLocal addresses these challenges by supporting Temu to provide a seamless payment experience across 14 key emerging markets, including Mexico, Colombia, Uruguay, among others.
“At dLocal, we’re proud to enable seamless payment experiences for Temu’s customers in emerging markets,” said Justin Goh, Head of APAC at dLocal. “By providing localized payment methods and frictionless cross-border solutions, we’re making shopping easier and more accessible for underserved consumers, connecting them to a vast range of value for money products.”
“At Temu, our mission is to ensure that everyone has access to quality products at affordable prices,” said a Temu spokesperson. “By partnering with dLocal, we’re excited to extend these benefits to millions of customers in emerging markets, ensuring that more people can enjoy accessible, convenient shopping experiences.”
The Philippines has achieved a significant milestone by moving to level 5 in the Universal Postal Union’s (UPU) Integrated Index for Postal Development (2IPD) ranking in the world, with Japan ranking 10th the highest.
This recognition highlights the country’s continued commitment to advancing its postal services, driven by its dedication to good governance and strengthening connectivity across the nation from previously being ranked 4 in 2023 and 2022.
The announcement was made during the Asian-Pacific Postal Leaders Forum in Jaipur India sponsored by the UPU, APPU, the Government of India, and the India Post
The 2IPDs ranking, released by the UPU, assesses the performance and development of postal systems globally based on key metrics such as reliability, reach, relevance, and resilience. The Philippines’ improved ranking underscores the Philippine Postal Corporation’s (PHLPost) efforts and its initiatives to modernize and enhance postal services in alignment with international standards while prioritizing good governance and transparency in its operations.
“We are extremely proud of this achievement. When I took office in 2023 we were level 4, my goal is to move up to 6 by the term of President Marcos. And moving another notch higher after a year we are very much delighted that the UPU sees the progress of the Philippines. I am thankful to the Assistant Postmaster Generals, to the Area Directors, to the support of the Board of Directors, and to the men and women of PHLPost for working on this. In the end, this is a reflection of our dedication to improving postal operations and services in the country through good governance. Our leveling up to level 5 best in the world is a testament to the hard work that we continue to implement to serve the Filipino people better,” said Postmaster General and CEO Luis D. Carlos of PHLPost.
This 2IPD ranking is one of the key goals set by Postmaster General and CEO Luis D. Carlos, aiming to elevate the Philippines from level 4 to level 6 by the end of President Bongbong Marcos’ term. PHLPost remains committed to further enhancing its operations, ensuring the Philippine postal system remains competitive and resilient in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
PHLPost has collaborated with international counterparts to bolster its operational efficiency. For instance, representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and Japan Post conducted a mission to PHLPost facilities. This collaboration aimed to enhance mail dispatch and operations, thereby improving PHLPost’s Integrated Index for Postal Development Score in terms of reliability.
This scorecard is based on the International Quality of Service (IQRS) system which serves as a measurement tool used to assess the efficiency and reliability of postal services. It focuses on on-time delivery or compliance with set transit times for international mail, End-to-end tracking, Data accuracy, and Operational compliance.
Among the key factors contributing to this ranking are PHLPost’s enhanced mail and parcel delivery systems, and expanded partnerships with e-commerce platforms. These developments have significantly improved the efficiency and accessibility of postal services nationwide considering that Domestic and International Express Mail Delivery prices are now 40% lower compared to leading couriers in the Philippines.
Additionally, PHLPost has strengthened its commitment to good governance and transparency by implementing stringent accountability measures, ensuring ethical practices, and fostering public trust in its services. Through these efforts, PHLPost continues to set a high standard for postal development.
PHLPost remains committed to further enhancing its operations, ensuring the Philippine postal system remains competitive and resilient in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
As part of GLS’ Europe-wide network expansion, KEBA parcel lockers are being rolled out in Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
This builds on the strong relationship and existing footprint GLS has with KEBA in Eastern Europe, as the company now expands further into Southern Europe. KEBA will play a key role in supporting GLS’ growth ambitions, helping to accelerate the deployment and accessibility of parcel lockers across these markets.
“The collaboration with KEBA allows us to rapidly and efficiently expand our network in Southern Europe. Parcel lockers play a key role in our strategy to offer our customers even greater flexibility and convenience,” says Johan Holstein, Group Director Digital & Last-mile Transformation at GLS Group.
“The new parcel lockers in Italy, Spain, and Portugal will give our customers even more independence when receiving and sending parcels – at locations that seamlessly integrate into their daily routines,” he adds.
This initiative is a direct response to the growing demand for sustainable and user-friendly alternatives to traditional home delivery. The parcel lockers will be installed at strategic locations to ensure optimal accessibility and enhance customer service.
KEBA as a partner in parcel logistics solutions
For the technical implementation, GLS collaborates with KEBA, applying its expertise in automation and parcel logistics. The Austrian company has been developing reliable and future-proof parcel lockers for more than two decades. In addition to supplying the hardware, KEBA provides software and service solutions to support implementation and long-term maintenance.
“2025 marks a special year for KEBA Logistics Automation. Twenty-five years ago, the first ideas emerged for a customer-friendly solution to handle the increasing volume of parcels. Today, we are excited to shape the logistics landscape in Southern Europe together with GLS and to implement forward-thinking solutions for flexible and customer-centric parcel delivery,” says Cesar Lapuerta, Sales Director at KEBA.
In February 2025, representatives of GLS Group and GLS Italy visited KEBA headquarters in Linz to plan the next steps of their collaboration. The discussions focused on the technological advancements in locker solutions and ensuring a seamless rollout of additional pick-up and drop-off locations.
Australians spent a record $69 billion on online goods in the past year, up 12% from the year prior, as reported in Australia Post’s 2025 Annual eCommerce Report released today.
The report exclusively reveals 9.8 million Australian households shopped online in 2024, spending the most at Online Marketplaces (almost $16 billion), Food and Liquor ($13.6 billion) and Fashion and Apparel ($9.6 billion).
Despite online shopping reaching an all-time high in Australia, cost-of-living pressures saw the average basket size drop to $95, down 2.1% from last year and the lowest in a decade. Aussie households have been careful with how they spend their money, using online shopping to manage costs and shop strategically for affordable items.
According to the data, Millennials contributed almost $25 billion to total online spend, followed by Gen X ($19 billion), Gen Z ($12 billion) Baby Boomers ($10 billion) and Builders ($2.7 billion). The rise of social commerce saw almost half of Gen Z and Millennials making an online purchase every week via social media.
Founder of Tomorrow Retail Consulting, a global retail advisory firm, Jordan Berke said: “The integration of content and commerce is rapidly enhancing the eCommerce channel, offering retailers a unique opportunity to leverage storytelling to connect with consumers.
“5 billion people now use social media, and retailers can’t ignore the progressive shift to shopping on social channels. The earlier a business can learn to stand out via social, the better they will be positioned in the years to come,” Mr Berke said.
As spending habits continue to shift in favour of online shopping, it’s Gen Alpha who are currently influencing $8.5 trillion in global spending.
Social Researcher, Mark McCrindle said: “Gen Alpha are more than the next generation of consumers. They are digital natives redefining retail and shaping the future of eCommerce. Paying attention to the values and preferences of Gen Alpha will be vital for retailers looking to connect with consumers.”
Today’s online shoppers are now sharing their dollars across an average of 16 retailers, making it easy to compare to find the best price which can reduce customer loyalty.
Australia Post Executive General Manager Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services Gary Starr said: “With cost-of-living pressures and high inflation an ongoing concern, Aussies turn to key sales events and loyalty programs to stretch their dollar further.
“We know that three-quarters of businesses are concerned that frequent sales events are training shoppers to only buy goods that are on sale. But we have to embrace that Aussies love a sale and strategic shopping has now become the norm.
“The record-breaking cyber period which saw Aussies spend $2.2 billion online shows shoppers are waiting for these sales to do all their shopping at once.
“As online shopping continues to outpace bricks and mortar, retailers who don’t participate in as many sales events throughout the year should consider developing an enticing loyalty strategy. That could be via a subscription or other forms of rewards and points to create loyalty, consistency and in return repeat purchases,” Mr Starr concluded.
The highest growth across the country was in the Northern Territory, which saw 11.3% growth in the number of online purchases, followed closely by Tasmania (11.1%) and Queensland (7.3%).
Uber Eats and Co-op have announced a three-year extension of their quick commerce partnership, further strengthening Co-op’s commitment to fast, convenient and quality online home deliveries across the UK.
The partnership, which started in 2022, has seen the number of Co-op stores where Uber Eats is available increase to more than 1,300 as Co-op has grown to become the UK’s leading quick commerce grocery supermarket through its own online shop and strategic partners.
This extended partnership builds on the success of Uber Eats and Co-op’s relationship which provides rapid, reliable and convenient grocery deliveries to communities nationwide.
Deepening the relationship, Co-op will extend its work with Uber Direct – Uber’s white-label last-mile delivery service. Uber Direct already offers a seamless delivery service from Co-op’s own online shop, and will now work closely with Co-op on deliveries for orders placed via the convenience retailer’s newly launched App, ‘Peckish’ – which is dedicated to supporting independent local grocery retailers in communities across the UK.
Unveiled last month (February) in a supermarket first, Peckish is available to small, often family-owned, independent grocery retailers and enables them to provide an online grocery shopping and delivery service to their local customers. Peckish overcomes barriers that independent retailers all-too-often face when moving to sell online, including cost, scale and resource, and allows smaller-scale bricks and mortar retailers to have a presence online and, helps more consumers to shop local and support their high street stores.
Co-op is committed to creating value and investing to create stronger and more resilient communities. Its approach to quick commerce sees Co-op stores act as fulfilment hubs in the community, with products picked in the local store and delivered quickly and conveniently locally to ensure the high street store benefits from online demand.
The partnership extension will also see Co-op continue to offer member price savings for Uber Eats users. Uber Eats was the first delivery platform to include Co-op member price savings, with Co-op’s more than 6 million member-owners able to access savings on approaching 200 products when ordering groceries and everyday essentials through Uber’s app.
Chris Conway, Co-op Quick Commerce Director, said: “Growing our quick commerce channel is a core part of our strategic approach, and I am delighted to extend and deepen our successful partnership with Uber Eats. Innovation is fundamental to our approach, whether extending reach and choice, creating value through member price savings, or, delivering the Peckish app to give independent grocery retailers a voice online. We see consumer appetite for quick, easy and convenient grocery delivery continue to grow and the agreement with Uber Eats marks the start of a new chapter where we will work together to meet the evolving needs of shoppers and, to grow Co-op’s leading q-comm channel.”
Alex Troughton, Regional General Manager of Uber Eats Grocery and Retail UK and EMEA said “Uber Eats and Co-op have built a strong and successful partnership, making grocery shopping more convenient than ever. We’re thrilled to extend this collaboration and introduce Uber Direct, which will allow Co-op to serve even more customers through its own digital channels while continuing to offer delivery via Uber Eats,”.
The use of electric trucks at DB Schenker in Finland has shown their reliability even in low temperatures.
Over the course of one year, two FUSO eCanter trucks were used in customer operations and proved that they were up to the task even in tough Finnish winters. This demonstrates that alternative drive systems can function effectively, even in freezing conditions. The trucks were shown to be reliable at temperatures as low as -30°C, conditions prevalent in Lapland near the Arctic Circle in Northern Finland.
Tristan Keusgen, Head of European Fleet Management at DB Schenker: “At DB Schenker, we are committed to pioneering solutions that meet the demands of modern logistics. We have been successfully operating two electric trucks in Finland for a year now. With this successful deployment of electric trucks in a region like Lapland, which has difficult weather conditions, we are proving once again that DB Schenker is leading the way to a sustainable future of logistics.”
The trucks are primarily used for regional and local transport, showcasing their versatility and effectiveness in various logistics scenarios. This allows DB Schenker to meet customer needs in different areas. The robust design and advanced technology of the electric trucks ensure that logistics operations at DB Schenker remain stable and provide clients with the dependable service they expect. In Finland, DB Schenker deploys the latest generation of the FUSO eCanter, which is recharged overnight to be ready for the next day’s operations.
DB Schenker has been using these trucks since 2018, largely for last-mile transport. The company currently operates around 50 FUSO eCanter trucks in different European countries, underscoring its commitment to sustainable and innovative logistics solutions.
Emma Branch and Richard Hawkins, two new Non-Executive Dircetors, have been appointed to the Post Office Board.
The appointments represent two additional Non-Executive Directors who will sit on the Post Office Board and who bring expertise in specific fields to help support the transformation of the Post Office as it delivers a ‘New Deal for Postmasters’.
Emma Branch has over 25 years of experience in business management, strategic leadership, organisational change and transformation programmes. Ms Branch is the former CEO of The Counselling Foundation, a leading provider of charitable counselling and psychotherapy services and during her time there undertook a postgraduate diploma in psychotherapy and counselling. Previously Ms Branch was a Partner at KPMG and worked there between 2008 and 2020 providing professional services across multiple business sectors.
Richard Hawkins brings over three decades of experience as a Non-Executive Director, Chief Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer & co-founder, board advisor, and transformation and risk consultant with extensive experience predominantly across banking and financial services. Mr Hawkins worked at HSBC for over 20 years.
The appointments follow the recent election of two new Postmaster Non-Executive Directors to the Board. Brian Smith and Sara Barlow were elected.
Post Office Chair, Nigel Railton, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Emma and Richard to the Board. Emma will help us deliver transformational change within a people and organisational development setting. Richard has a proven track record in designing, developing and delivering complex large scale digital programmes involving new system implementation. Both bring a wealth of expertise and experience to help us deliver our ‘New Deal for Postmasters’.”
Commenting on her appointment, Emma Branch said: “I am pleased to have been appointed to the Board as the Post Office implements its ‘New Deal for Postmasters’. Key to that will be ensuring the Post Office creates an organisation that can effectively deliver a sustainable future network for its postmasters and the communities they support. I look forward to sharing my experience in this sector with the Board and with the Post Office more broadly.”
Commenting on his appointment, Richard Hawkins said: “It is a privilege to join the Post Office as it embarks on a significant transformation programme to deliver a ‘New Deal for Postmasters’. Core to this will be ensuring postmasters benefit even more from the vital cash and banking and mails services that the Post Office provides along with having the systems in place that make it easier and more efficient to operate as a postmaster. I look forward to sharing my experience in the technology and transformation space with the Board and with the Post Office more broadly.”
Over eight in ten (86%) British retail brands believe social commerce is democratising the retail landscape, levelling the playing field by allowing mid-market businesses to compete against enterprise level companies and achieve commercial success regardless of size and resource, according to the latest research from Scurri, the next-generation delivery management platform.
Original research of 100+ UK retailers reveals larger businesses are increasingly learning from the strategies of founder-led and SME brands that are delivering social commerce success, with half (50%) of enterprise retailers agreeing that social commerce is no longer an optional feature but a key driver of growth.
The UK’s social commerce industry is predicted to more than double in the next four years, rising from £7.4 billion to almost £16 billion by 2028 – representing 10% of the total online commerce market, up from 6% in 2024, and growing at four times the rate of overall ecommerce sales.1
83% of retailers surveyed agreed social commerce is the fastest growing sales channel in the UK. When asked which channels will drive strategic growth opportunities over the next 24 months, mid-market brands identified YouTube (55%), Instagram (54%), TikTok Shop (54%), while enterprise retailers focused on Facebook (57%), Instagram (48%) and TikTok Shop (48%) as they look ahead to 2027.
90% of mid-market and 84% of enterprise brands recognise the need to embrace agility and experimentation to successfully implement a channel-centric commerce model – with less hierarchical businesses able to pivot more quickly and nimbly to meet fast-paced changes in consumer demand.
The research reveals mid-market brands are more active than enterprise businesses in terms of shopper engagement activities on social commerce, including activation of paid partnerships (42% vs 29%), brand customer content (48% vs 39%) and live shopping events (46% vs 24%). In contrast, enterprise level respondents were more prevalent in activating partnerships with macro (32% vs 21%) and lifestyle (47% vs 37%) influencers.
Regardless of business size, the majority (89%) of retailers agree post-purchase experience is crucial to building consumer trust with consumers, who have very high expectations for delivery speed, tracking and returns when purchasing via social commerce.
Rory O’Connor, founder & CEO of Scurri commented: “To meet the demands of platforms like TikTok Shop, UK retailers of any size must partner with approved delivery services that meet the platform’s standards for timely and secure deliveries. Using delivery management software to streamline operations between multiple partners allows retailers to scale efficiently and ensure timely deliveries, reducing the risk of delays and customer dissatisfaction.”
“Regardless of which social platform they sell on, retailers’ delivery partners also need to integrate seamlessly with other fulfilment tech infrastructures, such as warehouse management (WMS) or order management solutions (OMS), to optimise processes, uphold delivery experience and create the compelling post-purchase journeys social shoppers expect.”
In this article, Dame Damevski, International Markets Director at e-Boks, explores the urgent digital transformation of the postal sector. He examines the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing postal organisations, the critical role of secure digital post solutions, and the global collaboration needed to drive meaningful innovation. As traditional mail services decline and digital communication accelerates, the industry stands at a pivotal moment—will Posts adapt or risk becoming obsolete?
“The postal industry has been at a breaking point for the past two decades. The comfortable, predictable world of physical mail is vanishing, leaving the postal sector struggling to
redefine its relevance.
The reality is challenging without a pivot to a digital postal mandate, most will be left behind. Governments, regulators, and postal stakeholders must wake up to the urgency of the situation and act decisively. This is not a slow evolution; it is a revolution. At the heart of this transformation lies the need for a coordinated international approach.
As discussions within the Universal Postal Union (UPU) evolve, there is a growing recognition of the importance of global collaboration, regulatory modernisation, and innovative service models to ensure that Posts remain relevant in the digital age.
The Death of Traditional Mail – And What Comes Next
Single-piece mail volume has fallen more than 55% domestic and more than 85% international, yet most postal systems still uphold to outdated service models, acting as if mail volumes were unchanged. The world has moved on—postal operators must do the same.
The choice is simple: adapt or disappear. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the decline of letter volumes, making it painfully clear that clinging to old models isn’t sustainable.
Posts need to rethink their purpose, shifting from traditional mail distribution to becoming the backbone of trusted omnichannel communication infrastructure that serves citizens, businesses, and governments alike, with many already exploring digital solutions to facilitate this transition.
The Regulatory Stranglehold: An Industry in Chains?
Postal regulations built for a bygone era suffocates innovation. Operators remain constrained by costly, outdated service mandates, despite mail volumes collapsing. The utility of letters has diminished to the point where their mandatory delivery is more about tradition than necessity.
Governments must stop fixing at the edges. The future of postal services lies in fully integrating digital mail into future relevant postal acts and universal service frameworks aligning with ongoing efforts to modernise the industry. Digital postal platforms like e-Boks have shown the paths of modernised, relevant communication. Either embrace digital-first solutions for the future of Post or be left behind in a crumbling postal system.
The Business Model Crisis: Balancing Logistics and Digital infrastructure
Postal operators have dabbled their focus on logistics and e-commerce fulfillment, a sector that is fiercely competitive, and fast evolving with only a few able to carve out profitable success. Competing with global couriers and platform giants is a tough challenge, and most struggle to scale sustainably as highlighted by recent discussions on key challenges and solutions within the industry.
To stay relevant, Posts must reinforce their role as national communication infrastructure, ensuring they remain essential for governments, businesses, and citizens. While e-commerce delivery remains a big part of the future relevance, it is the postal role in digital authentication and secure digital communication that will define its long-term relevance and societal mandate.
The postal sector must enable a single access, omnichannel approach to communication, consolidating fragmented and scattered digital communication into secure platforms that protect citizens, institutions, and businesses, ensuring its infrastructure remains indispensable in the digital era. Postal operators must seek partnerships and cooperation across the major sending customers, i.e. government’s institutions and businesses to co-create and ensure their role in the digital-first societies.
Overcoming Public Scepticism: Trust and Inclusion in the Digital Shift
The success of digital services centres on public trust and acceptance. While most citizens enthusiastically embrace digital solutions, others — particularly the elderly and those in remote or underserved areas — remain cautious.
It is essential, therefore, that resources be channelled to maximise societal benefit, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive adequate support, whether in postal services or other more critical sectors like healthcare and social welfare. Governments must prioritise investments where they will have the greatest impact, and postal operators must take the lead in educating the public, and providing accessible, secure, and user-friendly solutions.
Above all, this transition must be inclusive, guided by efficiency, sustainability, and genuine community needs — leaving no one behind. The 20+ years of Denmark’s postal digitisation journey serve as a powerful example of how a well-executed digital transformation can modernise services while maintaining public trust. It proves that when done right, digital postal infrastructure becomes an enabler — not a barrier — to better, more efficient system for all.
A Call to Action: The Role of the UPU and Global Postal Leadership
The industry’s future lies in becoming a digital-relevant, omnichannel enabler of communication and identity. This requires bold leadership, decisive regulatory reform, and a commitment to building the necessary digital infrastructure. Governments, operators, and technology partners must unite to accelerate this transformation.
As UPU member countries met in February 2025 to discuss the future of the postal sector and endorse the 2026–2029 Dubai Postal Strategy, the urgency to act has never been greater.
The world is moving fast, and postal operators must not be left behind.
The UPU must transform into a global hub for postal innovation — one that unites postal operators, technology providers, and regulators to accelerate digital transformation and establish a forward-looking framework for secure, trusted, and efficient postal services in the digital age. One that secures financing for the future!
This transformation requires bold action and collective commitment from UPU member states, ensuring that global postal infrastructure remains relevant and future-proof. It is up to national operators and policymakers to recognise that embracing digital transformation is a path forward.
The time for courageous, decisive action is now. Those who fail to act decisively will find themselves irrelevant in the digital-first era!”
About the author
Dame Damevski is the International Markets Director at e-Boks, a provider of secure digital post solutions and an enabler of modern digital postal ecosystems. With deep expertise in postal innovation and international markets, he works closely with postal operators, governments, and industry stakeholders to advance the digital transformation of the sector.
Through his work, Dame advocates for secure, efficient, and scalable digital communication solutions that strengthen the role of postal services in a digital-first world. His strategic insights and hands-on approach help shape future-ready postal ecosystems, ensuring they remain relevant, trusted, and indispensable in the evolving global landscape.
83% of fleets say that AI is the future of safety reveals research by fleet management system Teletrac Navman.
“The use of AI by fleets is expanding from, primarily, fleet planning to fleet operations,” said Alain Samaha, CEO, Teletrac Navman. “There are clear safety advantages in harnessing AI with vehicle and dashcam data including preventing accidents by reducing distracted driving, and our customers are turning to Teletrac Navman and TN360 as a partner in achieving these results.” According to the survey, 26% are testing or piloting AI safety solutions and 18% are exploring options.
Distracted driving incidents, such as using mobile devices behind the wheel are growing. Forty-nine per cent (49%) of respondents to an earlier survey from Teletrac Navman said that distracted driving had a direct financial cost on their business. Technology, training, and developing a culture of safety are three tactics being employed by fleet operators to reduce the number of incidents.
As such, 32% of respondents said that AI will effectively be used to monitor driver behaviour in real time and to reduce distracted driving incidents (16%); predicting and preventing potential accidents (17%); improving vehicle maintenance (14%); and enhancing training/coaching through data insights (13%).
However, implementing AI is not without its concerns and challenges. Despite 66% of teams being aware of the safety benefits of AI, 23% of respondents said they were concerned about data privacy and 14% fear resistance from drivers or staff. Forty Seven per cent (47%) of respondents said that human interaction is crucial for effective decision making and 37% said humans provide accountability and ethical oversight.
“Camera and telematic data, in combination with AI, have the potential to be a very powerful tool for fleets who need to cut their exposure to risk,” added Samaha. “However, people are integral to making that happen, especially in situations where there may be concerns from drivers and unions. Effective communication is key.”
DHL Express has announced the opening of a new service centre in Newquay, with an investment of over £5.5 million.
The increased growth in package deliveries in recent years has called for a facility with greater capacity to serve DHL’s customers as well as consumers and businesses receiving parcels. Covering 2,250 sq mt, the new site is projected to handle over 5,200 items every week.
The new carbon-neutral facility has strong sustainability credentials, benefitting from extensive solar panels, LED lighting, and low-use water appliances. The site also offers EV chargers for staff and visitors.
A new customer reception will provide consumers and businesses with direct access to DHL Express services, enabling the collection and sending of parcels directly from the new site.
Lee McMahon, Service Centre Manager, DHL Express says: “We are delighted to be expanding our services with the opening of this new service centre in Newquay. This investment showcases our commitment to providing more efficient delivery services to customers across the region, helping to support local residents and businesses on their growth journey”.
Air Business Global e-Commerce Logistics has announced a strategic partnership with Hurricane Commerce, to help navigate the increasing complexity of international trade with speed and accuracy.
This collaboration enhances the Air Business Global e-Commerce logistics landscape by integrating Hurricane’s cutting-edge technology into Air Business’s comprehensive logistics services.
Empowering Global Trade with Advanced Data Solutions
The partnership will enable Air Business to offer its customers Hurricane’s innovative data solutions connected to the Kona API. Hurricane’s game-changing Kona API simplifies cross-border trade by ensuring that every shipment has complete and accurate data. This includes duty and tax calculations, restricted goods screening, as well as denied parties checks, all within a single API call. This integration reduces customs delays and improves operational efficiency for Air Business customers.
Commitment to Compliance and Operational Excellence
Global trade data and regulations are becoming more stringent, with non-compliance leading to delays, fines, additional costs and increased scrutiny. By integrating Hurricane Commerce’s data compliance solutions, Air Business ensures its customers meet key regulatory requirements, such as the EU’s ICS2 and the US Entry Type 86, ensuring smooth, compliant and efficient customs clearance for its customers.
Andy Haylar, Global e-Commerce and Technology Director at Air Business, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Hurricane Commerce to bring their world-class data solutions to our customers. This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing the best possible service and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. Together, we are poised to drive significant growth and innovation in the global e-Commerce logistics sector.”
Martyn Noble, Co-Founder, Executive Chairman and CEO of Hurricane Commerce, added: “Cross-border trade has never been more complex, and businesses require scalable, robust and compliant solutions to stay ahead of evolving regulations. By working with Air Business, we make it easier for them to trade internationally confidently, ensuring their shipments are compliant, cost-effective, and delivered without disruption.”
DP World Limited has announced financial results for the year ended 31 December 2024. On a reported basis, revenue grew by 9.7% to $20.0 billion and adjusted EBITDA rose by 6.7% to $5.5 billion with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 27.2%.
Results Highlights
Revenue increased by 9.7% to a record $0 billion
- Revenue growth of 9.7% was mainly due to improved performance from Ports and terminals and contributions from new acquisitions and concessions.
- Ports and terminals revenue per TEU increased 13.9% on a like-for-like basis with strong growth from the Middle East and Americas.
Adjusted EBITDA increased by 6.7% to a record $5.5 billion
- Adjusted EBITDA grew by 6.7% and EBITDA margin for the year stood at 27.2% as well as like-for-like adjusted EBITDA margin.
Profit for the year was $1.5 billion
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- Profit for the year decreased by 2.0% mainly due to higher finance costs.
DP World capacity exceeds 100 million TEU – continued investment in key growth markets
- DP World capacity exceeded 100 million TEU due to selective infrastructure investment in key growth markets.
- Capital expenditure of $2.2 billion ($2.1 billion in 2023) was invested across the existing portfolio.
- Capital expenditure budget for 2025 is approximately $2.5 billion to be invested mainly in Jebel Ali (UAE), Drydocks World and Jebel Ali Freezone (UAE), Tuna Tekra (India), London Gateway (UK), Ndayane (Senegal) and Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).
DP World focused on driving revenue synergies and building long-term relationships with cargo owners
- Enhanced logistics portfolio offers value-added capabilities in fast-growing markets and verticals.
- DP World aims to deliver supply chain solutions to cargo owners by leveraging its best-in-class infrastructure.
- Group is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for customised solutions in the logistics industry.
Strong cash generation and lower net Leverage
- Cash generated from operating activities increased by 18.9% to $5.5 billion in 2024 ($4.6 billion in 2023).
- Leverage (Net debt to adjusted EBITDA) on a pre-IFRS16 basis decreased to 3.4x (FY2023: 3.7x). On a post-IFRS16 basis, net leverage stands at 4.1x (FY2023: 4.0x).
Committed to long-term sustainability transition
- Issued a US$100 million blue bond, the first for a corporate from the Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEEMEA) region, alongside the launch of our Ocean Strategy.
- DP World became the first logistics company in the region to have its targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, a significant step towards decarbonising supply chains for our customers.
- Against our 2022 base year, we exceeded our 10.5% Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions reduction target, and close to 65% of electricity sourced globally today comes from renewable energy.
Strong 2024 performance, positioned for resilient growth despite uncertainty
- Strong financial performance in 2024, but the outlook remains uncertain due to geopolitical risks and changing global trade landscape.
- Despite global uncertainties, DP World is well-positioned for long-term growth, leveraging its integrated supply chain solutions and strategic investments to drive sustainable value creation.
DP World Group Chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, commented: “We are proud to report record revenue of $20.0 billion and record EBITDA of $5.5 billion for 2024, a remarkable achievement given the complex geopolitical landscape. These results demonstrate the benefits of our strategic focus on high-margin cargo, end-to-end integrated supply chain solutions and disciplined cost optimisation.
This strategy is positioning DP World for sustained long-term growth and value creation. By enhancing efficiency, expanding our capabilities and deepening partnerships, we are building a resilient business, well-equipped to capitalise on new opportunities as global trade evolves.”
Fulfilment and returns management startup Shiperoo has announced that Australia Post has taken a 25% stake in the business as part of an new strategic agreement.
This investment showcases their shared commitment to making the process of returning purchases easier and more efficient, as well as aiding environmental sustainability.
According to last year’s Australia Post Inside Australian Online Shopping eCommerce Industry Report, consumers made online purchases worth AU$63.6 billion in 2023 (calendar year).
Shiperoo Founding Partner Nishan Wijemanne explained that the online shopping boom has given rise to exponential growth in returns which has become retail’s largest unaddressed issue.
“Returns are a retail pain point on a number of fronts. Difficult returns are a clear barrier to purchase for modern consumers, who often need to access a selection of similar items before deciding what will suit their needs,” he said.
“Shiperoo was born from the desire to turn the pipe dream of efficient, cost-effective returns management into a reality, utilising automated multi-channel fulfilment facilities that are powered by market-leading robotic technology and AI.
“This includes rapid fulfilment execution for same-day shipping readiness, seamless returns for consumers through Australia Post’s network, efficient returns processing for retailers, and the integration of managed returns into the circular economy through reCommerce opportunities.
“To achieve this, we have developed a returns process that’s designed to be an end-to-end solution – at the consumers’ end, we solve their logistical nightmare of sending back returned items, while for the retailer, we can expedite the categorisation, quality assessment and decision-making regarding restocking, refurbishing or recycling.
“Our facilities enhance inventory management to reduce the likelihood of overstock or understock situations and the result is a ‘white glove’ returns-management experience. We’re also helping minimise the impact of the overall impact of returns on retailers’ bottom line.”
Across all retail, the average rate for returns is 17%, but for fashion/apparel online purchases – which Australians spent AU$9.6 billion on in 2023 – the returns rate rises to 30% (or roughly one-in-three items bought).
Shiperoo, the brainchild of highly respected supply chain technology entrepreneurs Nishan Wijemanne and Rizan Mawzoon, is determined to revolutionise the retail returns sector. It has invested heavily (AU$30 million) in sophisticated AI-powered software and state-of-the-art automation to enhance operational efficiency for retailers as well as better customer experiences.
As of March 1, Martti Kuldma has taken on the role of Chairman of the Board at Omniva, the international postal and logistics group owned by the Estonian state.
In late January, Omniva announced the resignation of its CEO, Mart Mägi. The Supervisory Board of AS Eesti Post appointed Martti Kuldma, then a board member and Head of Innovation and Technology, as the new Chairman of the Board.
Kuldma first joined Omniva as a member of the Supervisory Board in 2021 before becoming a board member and Head of Innovation and Technology in July 2023.
“Martti Kuldma is a strong innovator. Over the past year and a half, he has built a solid technology team, automated and streamlined technological processes, and established a growth-oriented product organization, transforming Omniva’s technology sector into a strong business,” said Helo Meigas, Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board of Eesti Post. “I am confident that Martti will bring the same level of innovation and growth mindset to leading the entire group.”
Kuldma has signed a five-year contract as a member of the management board. “Looking at our goals for this period, the top priority is ensuring the financial sustainability of postal services. Omniva is currently the only postal carrier in Estonia, the leading parcel carrier in the Baltic region, one of the most recognized brands in the Baltics, and our parcel volumes have been growing steadily for years. We are financially stable, but our more successful services continue to subsidize the weaker ones—this is neither a sound business strategy nor a sustainable one in the long term,” Kuldma commented.
“My goal is to identify and implement ways for Omniva to continue bringing the world closer to each home in the Baltics. To achieve this, our services and processes must be simple – it’s not about doing more, but about doing it smarter. This will increase the value created by each employee, leading to better profitability and allowing us to offer higher wages. Our actions must be guided by customer needs and sound business principles. With this approach, anything is possible,” said Kuldma.
In near future, key focus areas in postal and parcel logistics will include expanding the close-to-home parcel locker network and introduce new efficient services such as same-day delivery and community-based delivery.
No new board members will be appointed to replace Mart Mägi. The board will continue with four members: in addition to Chairman and CEO Martti Kuldma, Chief Financial Officer Signe Kukin, Chief Commercial Officer Gusts Muzikants, and Chief Operations Officer Kastytis Valantinas will remain in their roles.
DHL and the New York University Stern School of Business released the DHL Trade Atlas 2025 today, providing a comprehensive analysis of the most important trends in global trade. In the face of geopolitical tensions and concerns about widespread tariff increases, the report features data-backed insights, covering nearly 200 countries and territories.
Uncertainty looms over future trade policies following U.S. President Donald Trump’s re-election last year. The DHL Trade Atlas 2025, however, highlights how global trade growth has proven surprisingly resilient in the face of recent disruptions. This pattern is likely to continue even as the U.S. begins a campaign of tariff increases.
Faster trade growth compared to the previous decade
Recent forecasts predict goods trade will grow at a compound annual rate of 3.1% from 2024 to 2029. This roughly aligns with GDP growth and represents modestly faster trade growth compared to the previous decade. Even if the new U.S. administration implements all of its proposed tariff increases and other countries retaliate, global trade is still expected to grow over the next five years – but at a much slower pace.
“The DHL Trade Atlas 2025 reveals highly encouraging insights,” said John Pearson, CEO DHL Express. “There is still significant potential for trade growth in advanced and emerging economies worldwide. It’s impressive to see how international trade continues to withstand every conceivable challenge, from the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic to tariffs and geopolitical conflicts. In today’s global business landscape, DHL can assist customers in reevaluating their supply chains by establishing a balanced approach between cost and risk, ensuring they are both efficient and secure.”
New leaders in trade growth: India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines
Between 2024 and 2029, four countries are forecast to rank among the top 30 for both speed (growth rate) and scale (absolute amount) of trade growth: India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. India also stands out as the country with the third largest absolute amount of forecast trade growth (6% of additional global trade), behind China (12%) and the United States (10%). The countries expected to deliver the most absolute trade growth are spread across Asia, Europe, and North America. At the same time, the countries with the fastest projected trade growth also include several in Africa and Latin America.
At the level of major world regions, the fastest trade volume growth from 2024 to 2029 is forecast for South & Central Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the ASEAN countries – with compound annual growth rates between 5% and 6%. All other regions are forecast to grow at rates of 2% to 4%.
New record in long-distance trade
Despite widespread interest in nearshoring and producing goods closer to customers, the DHL Trade Atlas 2025 demonstrates that trade has not become more regionalized overall. Actual trade flows indicate the opposite trend. In the first nine months of 2024, the average distance traversed for all traded goods reached a record 5,000 kilometers, while the share of trade within major regions fell to a new low of 51%.
Reasons for optimism in the face of U.S. policy shifts
The DHL Trade Atlas 2025 outlines several reasons for optimism about the future of global trade despite a turn toward more restrictive U.S. trade policies. Most countries continue to pursue trade as a key economic opportunity, and U.S. trade barriers could strengthen ties among other countries. Also, many of Trump’s tariff threats may end up different than originally proposed or delayed to prevent a spike in domestic inflation. Moreover, the U.S. share of world imports currently stands at 13%, and its share of exports is 9% – enough for U.S. policies to have substantial effects on other countries but not enough to unilaterally determine the future of global trade.
“While threats to the global trading system must be taken seriously, global trade has shown great resilience because of the large benefits that it delivers for economies and societies,” said Steven A. Altman, Senior Research Scholar and Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalization at NYU Stern’s Center for the Future of Management. “While the U.S. could pull back from trade – at a significant cost – other countries are not likely to follow the U.S. down that path because smaller countries would suffer even more in a global retreat from trade.”
Made-in-China content finds new routes to the U.S.
The DHL Trade Atlas 2025 provides an update on geopolitically driven shifts in trade patterns. While trade between blocs of close allies of the U.S. and China declined in 2022 and 2023 relative to trade within these blocs, those declines were minor and did not continue in 2024.
The U.S. and China have reduced their shares of trade with each other, but not enough to constitute a meaningful “decoupling.” Direct U.S.–China trade has fallen from 3.5% of world trade in 2016 to 2.6% over the first nine months of 2024. However, the U.S. still brings in as high a share of its imports from China as the rest of the world does. Also, there is evidence suggesting that U.S. imports from China are underreported. Moreover, data that also considers Chinese inputs in goods the U.S. imports from other countries suggests no meaningful drop in U.S. reliance on goods made in China.
Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) today announced a S$30 million investment in its Regional eCommerce Logistics Hub (eComm LogHub) facility, to expand eCommerce processing capacity.
This investment will go towards the installation of new sorting equipment that can process up to 300,000 small parcels per day at the eComm Loghub, up from the present 100,000. The compact and modular design of the new machinery also frees up significantly more floor space, enabling future enhancements.
“The investment in capacity building not only enhances operational efficiency but unlocks a pathway for growth,” said Simon Israel, Chairman of the Board, SingPost. “Singapore’s eCommerce logistics market is fragmented. By leveraging our infrastructure, SingPost could play the role of an industry consolidator, opening our historically closed networks to partnerships or undertaking services for other parties in the industry. I am optimistic about the growth potential of our business as this could result in more integrated and sustainable logistics solutions for the industry.”
This also represents the first significant renovation of SingPost’s eComm LogHub. Launched in 2016, the S$182 million, 553,000 square feet facility houses a number of operations spanned over three floors. The larger parcel processing occupies all of the ground floor with a sortation capacity of approximately 100,000 parcels a day. Together with the new sorting equipment for small parcels to be housed on the third floor, the eComm LogHub will have eCommerce processing of some 400,000 parcels a day. The facility also features a warehouse on the second floor, 150 simultaneous loading bays as well as an office block.
“Some 70% of eCommerce shipments that come through SingPost are small parcel deliveries that can fit into a letterbox. In Singapore, letterbox deliveries are the most convenient, secure and carbon-friendly delivery option available,” said Neo Su Yin, Group Chief Operating Officer, SingPost. “With the robust growth of eCommerce, we are presently operating at maximum sortation capacity. The new sortation equipment will increase our throughput by 300%, while utilising less floor space, giving us room to expand further within the same premises at our eComm LogHub in future.”
Future Consolidation of Mail with Parcel Operations
Future consolidation of mail with parcel operations to the eComm LogHub will consolidate all operations under one roof to achieve greater efficiency. At present, SingPost’ s Postal and eCommerce parcel sortation is managed in two separate locations. The SingPost Centre (SPC) in Paya Lebar is where mail and small parcel sortation is handled. Larger eCommerce parcels are sorted at the eComm LogHub in Tampines. The timeline for this consolidation, however, requires careful review.
“The incorporation of all these elements to purpose fit eComm LogHub would take more time, significant planning and further investment, which SingPost will consider in line with divestment plans for non-core assets, including our property portfolio,” said Israel.
More Leasing Opportunities: SingPost Centre
By mid-2026, concentrating eCommerce parcel sortation at the eComm LogHub will vacate some 83,000 square feet lettable industrial space at the SPC in Paya Lebar , potentially opening up more leasing opportunities, subject to necessary regulatory approvals. When mail operations are consolidated to the eComm Loghub, it will potentially further free up more lettable space.
Forging a Sustainable Business Model for Postal Operations with the Government
SingPost is working with the Government on a business model that would ensure long-term financial sustainability of postal services including the Post Office Network. “On our part, SingPost is focusing on optimising and digitalising our services to enhance cost-effectiveness, fulfilling postal obligations and relevance in a digital environment,” said Neo. “Together with our investments in eCommerce logistics and consolidating our operations to improve efficiencies, we believe these measures will enable SingPost to focus on establishing pathways to growth by capitalising on opportunities in the eCommerce logistics market.”