DHL eCommerce, the e-commerce logistics arm of DHL Group, inaugurated its 100,000th access point in Europe.
It said that the inauguration of the 100,000th access point was celebrated in Warsaw, Poland — making DHL the operator of the largest and densest network in Europe.
Access points are ServicePoints (parcel shops) or locker locations where DHL eCommerce customers can send, drop off or collect parcels.
The network currently spans a total of 28 countries across Europe and partially leverages synergy effects with its sister divisions, DHL Express and Post + Parcel Germany.
"DHL eCommerce aspires to provide our customers with reliable, affordable, and sustainable e-commerce delivery services since they’re always at the centre of everything we do," says Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce.
"The backbone of our services is our extensive network operated by us or through partnerships and our digital expertise and capabilities. With almost unlimited growth potential, we're operating in one of the most exciting segments in the industry. But how we harness that potential will enable us to achieve our goals. Now is the time to invest and grow."
Increased e-commerce demand
Since the number of active e-commerce shoppers is constantly growing across Europe, DHL noted that the demand for parcel collection and drop-off points in urban and metropolitan areas is increasing.
At the same time, a dense network of access points also plays a decisive role for small and large e-commerce marketplaces in providing comprehensive and convenient return logistics for their customers.
In Poland, for example, DHL eCommerce has formed a joint venture with Cainiao, the logistics arm of Alibaba, to develop the country's largest OOH network.
The recently signed agreement to acquire MNG Kargo in Turkey and the cooperation with Poste Italiane in Italy will also contribute to the further expansion of the European network of DHL eCommerce.
Growing demand for flexible delivery options
DHL said as online shoppers increasingly ask for reliable, affordable and sustainable delivery and returns, it supports them through access points, offering convenient and flexible services.
This is also underlined by the results of the Online Shopper Survey, commissioned by DHL, due to be released in September.
In the survey, 24% of European respondents said they want their parcels delivered to access points. This is the highest when compared to other parts of the world.
DHL said in Asia-Pacific, it is 11%; in Sub-Saharan Africa, 8.5%; in North America, 7.5%; in the Middle East and North Africa, 6.5% and Latin America, 6%.
The report noted that 47% of Europeans interviewed said their experience would be improved if more delivery options and parcel lockers and collection points were closer to their home.
Additionally, 70% of European online shoppers expect to be able to change the delivery option at the last minute.
DHL noted that, therefore, the need for a logistics partner who can cater to all delivery and returns needs is very high.
With one of the largest footprints in Europe in high-traffic urban and metropolitan areas, DHL eCommerce offers flexibility and scale to its customers.
Furthermore, collection from access points also plays an integral part regarding a more sustainable delivery as ServicePoints and lockers save up to 30% of emissions.
The Online Shopper Survey shows that 30% of Europeans would switch to collection to make their delivery more sustainable over having longer delivery times or paying more.
