The German courier, express and parcel (CEP) industry recorded solid growth in shipping volumesof 3.8% during the first half year of 2013 as consumers continue to shop actively via the internet
boosting the sales of online retailers and parcel deliveries, according the German InternationalExpress Association (BIEK).While the online trade boom in Germany boosted the overall courier, express and parcel marketboth within the country and internationally, the domestic parcel volumes showed an even strongergrowth of over 4%.
This growth is driven mainly by B2C deliveries. B2C shipments now account for more than half ofthe business with 53%, compared to only 49% during the first half of 2012. The most demandedproducts with private shoppers include fashion, electronics and books. The other 40% in shipmentvolumes consist of B2B parcels while C2C shipments make up the remaining 7%.
More shipments also create new jobs, with the number of staff among the BIEK member companieshaving risen by around 3% during the first six months of 2013. The overall number of peopleemployed by the German CEP operators is thus approaching the 200,000 mark.
Gunnar Uldall, BIEK president, said: “The trend toward more B2C growth is also continuing in thesecond half of 2013.”
He added the sector’s employees are the key to success. “Qualification is essential to convincewith innovations and high-quality services in this highly competitive industry. Therefore, ourmember companies are investing in training and further education.”
The BIEK member companies are aware of their social responsibility, the association claimed: “Hardly any other industry provides so many job opportunities for people seeking work, includinggood salary prospects.”
