DHL eCommerce Solutions and Cainiao have partnered to invest €60m (US$64.5m) to install parcel lockers across Poland.
Initially, the partners will merge their existing parcel locker networks, so that consumers get immediate and seamless access to the offerings of DHL and Cainiao. The two companies already operate a total of 1,200 parcel lockers in Poland. Following this, the companies plan to install modern parcel lockers with user-friendly interfaces at key locations, based on the existing DHL network of parcel shops and access points. Their ambition is to build “Poland’s leading parcel locker network, with seamless coverage of the first and last mile”. To do this, DHL eCommerce Solutions will purchase part of the equity securities of Cainiao’s subsidiary in Poland. The transaction is subject to merger control clearance in jurisdictions of certain countries. Such approvals are expected in the coming months.
Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce Solutions, said, “Poland is one of the fastest growing e-commerce markets in Europe, expected to double by 2027, and up to 40% of consumers prefer to have shipments delivered to parcel lockers. 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.”
William Xiong, chief strategy officer and general manager of Europe and Southeast Asia (SEA) regions at Cainiao Network, commented, “As we tap into the great potential of Europe’s e-commerce market, Cainiao strives to contribute to the growth of a sustainable logistics ecosystem by deepening our cooperation with our local partners. We are glad to have found a strong and well-established partner like 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.”