DHL Group will be entering a €60 million partnership with global logistics company, Cainiao Network, to build Poland’s largest out-of-home delivery network.
In the first phase following the transaction, both partners will merge their existing parcel locker networks to form one of Poland’s largest access point networks.
The companies will also be investing €60 million to install modern parcel lockers with user-friendly interfaces at key locations.
According to DHL, the ultimate ambition is to build Poland’s leading parcel locker network with seamless coverage of the first and last mile – by adding to the extensive network of over 90,000 access points in Europe operated by DHL.
“Poland is one of the fastest growing e-commerce markets in Europe, expected to double by 2027, and up to 40 per cent of consumers prefer to have shipments delivered to parcel lockers,” said DHL eCommerce Solutions CEO, Pable Ciano.
“By joining forces with Cainiao, we will strengthen our position as a trusted parcel provider and create an extensive network of state-of-the-art parcel lockers.
“In this way, we can provide our customers with an even greater shipping experience, on top of our existing to-door delivery options.”
Over the past years Cainiao has been setting up its regional hub in Liege, Belgium and sorting centres in major markets in Europe.
This is further complemented by a network of parcel lockers in Poland, Spain and France to provide a more efficient and seamless logistics experience across Europe.
“As we tap into the great potential of Europe’s ecommerce market, Cainiao strives to contribute to the growth of a sustainable logistics ecosystem by deepening our cooperation with our local partners,” said William Xiong, Chief Strategy Officer and General Manager of Europe and SEA regions at Cainiao Network.
“We are glad to have found such a strong and well-established partner in DHL, who shares our vision. By combining both companies’ logistics, technology, and e-commerce expertise, we aspire to deliver superior service to our clients and create an unmatched online shopping experience for consumers.”
The transaction is subject to merger control clearance in jurisdictions of certain countries. Such approvals are expected in the coming months.