GLS is the latest parcel carrier to sign up to use Quadient’s fast-growing locker network in France.
The French technology company announced yesterday (October 26) that GLS will make use of ‘open’ carrier-neutral Parcel Pending by Quadient network currently being rolled out in France to offer more delivery modes and locations to its 6,000 customers in France.
The deal follows a recent agreement with supermarket group Auchan to install 400 lockers, and with shopping centre operator Galimmo for a further 30 locations, thus extending its current network of 1,000 sites and close partnerships with Relais Colis and UPS in France.
Priority locations
Under the new agreement, as soon as November, GLS will have access to the full extent of Quadient’s open network in France to deliver its parcels, while also benefitting from exclusive reserved space on a specific number of sites in the carrier's priority geographical areas.
GLS France plans to offer its customers up to 1,500 Quadient drop-off and pick-up points by 2025, including those from the recently announced Auchan partnership.
Independent partner
"This strategic partnership with Quadient embodies our shared vision of innovation and excellence in parcel delivery. In opting for Quadient, we have chosen a partner whose independent locker network and complementary services adds to our activities, increasing our overall delivery efficiency,” said Nicolas Robert, Managing Director of GLS France.
“This collaboration enables us to meet the growing demands of our customers, shippers and recipients alike, who are looking for more convenient, 24/7 delivery solutions. GLS France now offers a complete range of delivery services covering all of France, from retail stores, next-door neighbors, and now automated lockers. This alliance opens promising prospects for GLS, not only in France but also in other parts of Europe," he added.
Third major carrier
"We're delighted to be working with GLS France and to be part of their transformation project initiated over the past two years," explained Katia Bourgeais Crémel, European Director for Parcel Locker Solutions at Quadient.
"With a third major carrier now joining our network in France, we are accelerating our mission to modernize delivery services by offering a true multicarrier pickup and drop-off network. We deeply believe in our vision and business model, with a shared infrastructure available to the entire e-commerce logistics ecosystem, providing greater choice and convenience for consumers and creating economies of scale in terms of costs and use of urban space. We are honored by GLS France's confidence, and firmly believe that this new partnership will greatly accelerate consumer adoption and widespread the use of smart locker delivery in France."
Overall, Quadient operates nearly 19,000 smart parcel lockers, primarily in North America, Japan, France and the UK, and is committed to rapidly deploying open locker networks the two latter countries.
