Cainiao Group (Cainiao), the logistics arm of Alibaba Group Holding Limited, announced that it would be partnering AliExpress to launch an industry-first 5-day global delivery service offering.

Speaking at its annual Global Smart Logistics Summit in Hangzhou, China,  Wan Lin, Cainiao CEO, provided an exclusive update on four business priorities this year, which includes accelerating global express services, deepening logistics capabilities in key overseas markets, upgrading domestic express services, and developing tiered domestic supply chain products.

"The next decade will unveil new development opportunities for smart logistics, and Cainiao will dedicate our efforts to building a leading global smart logistics network," Wan Lin told the summit.

"This includes establishing three long-chain logistics networks encompassing domestic logistics, cross-border logistics, and overseas logistics, as well as creating three short-chain businesses in last-mile post stations, logistics infrastructure, and logistics technology."

The Cainiao chief executive said that with the goal to "provide quality and competitive logistics services" to its consumers, merchants, platforms, and logistics partners.

Five-day delivery service

In the global express business, Cainiao said it would be setting a new industry benchmark with the launch of the '5-Day Global Delivery' service, which pledges to deliver cross-border parcels within five working days.

Cainiao said this would be achieved through full-chain operational optimization and streamlining of workflows across first-mile pick-up, line haul, overseas distribution, and last-mile delivery.

"The 5-Day Global Delivery service will bring about an average of 30% uplift in delivery speed compared to the industry standard, bringing about greater efficiencies and cost-effectiveness to better meet the needs of cross-border merchants and improve customer experiences," the Chinese logistics company added.

Meanwhile, to deepen its logistics capabilities in key overseas markets as part of its globalization push, Cainiao noted that it would focus on key logistics nodes in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, specifically with a target to establish one to two local warehousing and distribution centres each year.

During the summit, Wan also announced the launch of Cainiao's self-operated premium express service, 'Cainiao Express', which features key offerings such as half-day delivery, doorstep delivery, and night-time pick-up to cater to market demands for a high-quality and differentiated express service.

Additionally, Cainiao noted that it would prioritize the development of three-tiered supply chain products and services, namely 'Half-Day Delivery' for premium warehousing, 'Next-Day Delivery' for smart warehousing, and an economy shipping option.