DHL eCommerce, CTT Expresso join forces to transform Iberian parcel delivery

DHL eCommerce and CTT Expresso have forged a strategic partnership aimed at seizing growth opportunities in the e-commerce and parcel delivery market across Spain and Portugal, which together represent the fourth-largest market in Europe.

This collaboration will establish the most extensive pick-up and delivery network in the region through the creation of specialized joint ventures.

As part of this initiative, CTT Expresso will acquire DHL eCommerce’s operations in Portugal, becoming the joint processor and distributor for DHL eCommerce parcel volumes within the country.

Furthermore, in Spain, the partnership will focus on streamlining operations: DHL eCommerce will concentrate on B2B services, while CTT Express, the Spanish arm of CTT Expresso, will handle B2C deliveries.

This division of roles aims to create an efficient network for parcel processing and last-mile delivery, significantly improving the customer experience across Iberia.

Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce, stated: “Today, we are laying the foundation for unmatched market access and expansion across Europe for our customers. E-commerce in Iberia is poised for significant growth in the coming years. Our investment and collaboration create a high-performing network, enhancing service quality and reliability for both B2B and B2C segments, aiming for 1 billion EUR in revenue from joint operations. By leveraging the individual strengths of CTT and DHL eCommerce, this partnership positions us as the top choice for e-commerce businesses and retailers aiming to grow.”

CTT Expresso, one of Portugal’s leading parcel delivery companies and the fastest-growing in Spain, boasts a network of 20,000 service points (PUDOs), 22 hubs, and 257 depots across both countries, along with over 1,000 parcel lockers under the Locky brand.

Meanwhile, DHL eCommerce has a robust presence in Spain, operating more than 3,000 service points, seven hubs, and 73 depots. By integrating these networks, customers will benefit from increased convenience, such as the ability to drop off or collect parcels at either partner’s access points.

The partnership also includes plans to expand the joint out-of-home network with 10,000 additional parcel lockers in the coming years. Furthermore, by leveraging DHL eCommerce’s extensive European network and expertise in cross-border shipping, the collaboration will provide seamless solutions for both domestic and international e-commerce businesses.

João Bento, CEO of CTT – Correios de Portugal, commented: “CTT and DHL eCommerce share common values, as both are integral parts of companies with deep-rooted histories in the parcel and logistics sector. Quality and reliability have always been our common focus. By joining forces on the Iberian Peninsula, we will create real value for our customers and be the partner that the booming e-commerce trade needs. Moreover, by joining forces with DHL eCommerce in Spain and incorporating DHL eCommerce in Portugal, CTT Expresso accelerates its growth and market reach, improving its position as the fastest-growing e-commerce logistics player in Iberia.”