InPost to expand parcel locker network in Ukraine

Polish post and parcel operator InPost is expanding its network of parcel locker terminals in Ukraine.
The company is installing new automated parcel collection and drop-off points at 16 locations in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, by the end of this month.

The expansion will take the network in Kiev to a total of 40 machines.

The “easyPack” machines, which allow consumers to pick up online purchases outside office hours when they cannot be at home to receive parcels, are being deployed at various supermarket outlets.

InPost, part of the Integer.pl Group, said it would be working with cosmetics retailers Avon and Oriflame, among others, to improve the convenience of e-commerce deliveries.

The Polish company said it believed the e-commerce market in Ukraine was predicted to grow to as much as $1bn, providing a good opportunity for its parcel lockers. The country has a population of about 45m.

The firm said its 24 existing parcel locker terminals in Kiev saw volumes growing by 1400% in 2014.

Waldemar Brzoska, the chief executive of Integer and InPost in Ukraine, said that despite the difficult political situation in the country, the e-commerce market was still growing rapidly.

“We’re extremely pleased at the initial volume growth being supported by our terminals,” he said. “We’re seeing the growing potential of e-stores here, and the recognition of the need for alternative delivery services to the traditional postal and courier services.

“That is why InPost easyPack machines are enjoying increasing popularity, and we expect that with the expansion of our network in this country, they will increase their market share in the e-commerce logistics sector.”

InPost now claims to have around 4,000 of its parcel locker terminals installed around the world, with plans to deploy a further 6,000.