DHL eCommerce and CTT Expresso Join Forces to Create the Leading E-Commerce Delivery Network in Iberia

(IN BRIEF) DHL eCommerce and CTT Expresso have partnered to create the largest pick-up and delivery network across Spain and Portugal, aiming to handle over 1 million daily shipments and enhance e-commerce logistics for B2B and B2C markets. As part of the agreement, DHL eCommerce acquires a 25% stake in CTT Expresso Portugal, while CTT Group takes a 25% stake in DHL eCommerce Spain, with options to increase shareholdings up to 49%. The partnership combines their extensive networks, plans to deploy 10,000 new parcel lockers, and leverages DHL’s cross-border expertise for international e-commerce. Operations will use dual branding, with regulatory approval pending.

(PRESS RELEASE) BONN/LISBON, 20-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — DHL eCommerce and CTT Expresso have entered into a landmark strategic partnership, aiming to revolutionize e-commerce and parcel delivery services across Spain and Portugal, collectively Europe’s fourth-largest market. This collaboration combines the strengths of both companies to establish the most extensive pick-up and delivery network in the region, addressing the growing demand for efficient B2B and B2C logistics solutions.

As part of the agreement, DHL eCommerce will acquire a 25% stake in CTT Expresso Portugal, while its Portuguese operations will be integrated into CTT Expresso. In Spain, CTT Group will acquire a 25% stake in DHL eCommerce Spain. Both companies also retain the option to increase their mutual shareholdings in the future, potentially reaching 49%.

Building a Comprehensive Delivery Ecosystem

This partnership will streamline operations across the Iberian Peninsula, with CTT Expresso taking over as the primary processor and distributor for DHL eCommerce parcels in Portugal. In Spain, DHL eCommerce will focus on B2B services, while CTT Express, a subsidiary of CTT Expresso, will handle B2C deliveries. Together, the collaboration aims to create a highly efficient network capable of handling over 1 million shipments daily, significantly enhancing the customer experience.

“We are establishing unparalleled market access and expansion for our customers in Iberia,” said Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce. “This partnership leverages our respective strengths to build a high-performing network, enhancing service quality and reliability for both B2B and B2C markets. Our goal is to achieve €1 billion in joint revenue while becoming the preferred partner for e-commerce growth.”

João Bento, CEO of CTT – Correios de Portugal, emphasized the shared values driving the partnership: “CTT and DHL eCommerce both have deep roots in the logistics and parcel delivery sectors. Together, we will create real value for our customers by accelerating CTT Expresso’s growth, especially in Spain, and enhancing its position as the fastest-growing e-commerce logistics provider in Iberia.”

Enhanced Customer Convenience and Future Expansion

The partnership brings together an extensive network of over 20,000 service points, 22 hubs, and 257 depots across Spain and Portugal. Additionally, the companies plan to expand their joint out-of-home delivery network by deploying 10,000 new parcel lockers in the coming years, complementing the existing 1,000 lockers under the Locky brand. Customers will benefit from seamless access to package drop-off and pick-up services across both networks.

Leveraging DHL eCommerce’s expertise in cross-border logistics, the partnership will also deliver optimized solutions for international e-commerce businesses, ensuring reliability and convenience for both domestic and global markets.

DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 395,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 81.8 billion euros in 2023. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

About CTT:
CTT is a leading e-commerce logistics player. With 13,670 employees, CTT is present throughout the Iberian Peninsula. In 2023, CTT achieved an operating income of €985.2 million, recurring EBIT of €87.6 million and a net profit of €60.5 million. In the last 4 quarters, CTT delivered more than 130 million parcels throughout the Iberian Peninsula, with the volume of deliveries growing by around 46%. In the mail, in Portugal, CTT delivered 421.1 million items of addressed mail. With a strong market presence, CTT connects people and companies in a sustainable way.

New Branding to Reflect Collaboration

The partnership will operate under distinct brand labels: “CTT Express, a partnership with DHL” for B2C services and “DHL, a partnership with CTT Express” for B2B operations.

The agreement is subject to regulatory approval and will proceed following clearance under relevant merger control laws.

Media Contacts:

DHL Group:
Media Relations
David Stoeppler
Phone: +49 228 182-9944
E-mail: pressestelle@dhl.com
On the internet: group.dhl.com/press

CTT:
Gabinete de Imprensa CTT – Correios de Portugal
Cátia Simões – 915707396/ catia.c.simoes@ctt.pt
Lara Ferin – 927350411/ lara.c.ferin@ctt.pt

SOURCE: DHL