GLS Netherlands has expanded its network of parcel shops to 350 which provides more convenienceto customers and shorter routes.
In the past one and a half years, GLS added 80 parcel shops in the Netherlands thusstrengthening its presence in the country.
The European parcel operator said it is increasing the mobility of society with a denser parcelshop network while also responding to the growing online trade. “Whoever shops via internet,expects reliable, fast and convenient delivery of the ordered product. However, many recipients areat work or en route when the driver delivers the shipments to their homes during the day.Therefore, alternative delivery concepts are needed,” the company said in a statement.
The parcel shops of GLS Netherlands are integrated into retail stores in various industries.They offer individuals and businesses shipping sporadically a convenient alternative to the postoffices. Instead of waiting in the queue, customers can profit from convenient opening hours andfair prices for parcel shipping.
Milo Kars, General Manager, GLS Netherlands, said: “Parcel shops are even more important aspick-up points.” Nearly 40% of private recipients who were not at home during the first deliveryattempt pick up their shipment at a parcel shop with an increasing tendency. “Even if our driversstand up in front of closed doors, the recipients get their shipments in a reliable way. Mostcustomers get their parcel already the next day,” Kars added.
For even more convenience, recipients who couldn’t be reached at home can choose between threedifferent options to receive their parcel. This way, the parcel can either be delivered to therecipient or a neighbour in a second attempt. As the two other options, customers can get theparcel at the GLS depot or pick it up at a parcel shop of their choice.
GLS plans to continue developing its parcel shop network in future. “However, it is importantfor us to expand moderately and systematically and not to grow too fast. The increase in parcelshops should keep pace with the increase in parcels so parcel shop operators can rely on theirvolumes and revenues,” Kars explained. Thanks to this strategy, GLS records practically nofluctuations of parcel shop owners. “We want to continue working this way. Only a stable networkcan ensure a good supply chain. “
