GLS Netherlands grows its consumer network to 350 parcel shops

GLS Netherlands has expanded its network of parcel shops to 350 which provides more convenience to customers and shorter routes. In the past one and a half years, GLS added 80 parcel shops in the
Netherlands thus strengthening its presence in the country. The European parcel operator said it is increasing the mobility of society with a denser parcel shop 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 are at 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 post offices. Instead of waiting in the queue, customers can profit from convenient opening hours and fair prices for parcel shipping. Milo Kars, General Manager, GLS Netherlands, said: “Parcel shops are even more important as pick-up points.” Nearly 40% of private recipients who were not at home during the first delivery attempt pick up their shipment at a parcel shop with an increasing tendency. “Even if our drivers stand up in front of closed doors, the recipients get their shipments in a reliable way. Most customers get their parcel already the next day,” Kars added.
For even more convenience, recipients who couldn’t be reached at home can choose between three
different options to receive their parcel. This way, the parcel can either be delivered to the recipient or a
neighbour in a second attempt. As the two other options, customers can get the parcel 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 important for us to expand moderately and systematically and not to grow too fast. The increase in parcel shops should keep pace with the increase in parcels so parcel shop operators can rely on their volumes and revenues,” Kars explained. Thanks to this strategy, GLS records practically no fluctuations of parcel shop owners. “We want to continue working this way. Only a stable network can ensure a good supply chain. “