DPDgroup has continued its growth in 2018 with a revenue of EUR 7.3 billion. In 2018, DPDgroup recorded an 8% increase in sales (+8.6% at constant scope and exchange rates) compared to 2017.
This performance was driven by an increase in volumes (+7%) compared to 2017, bringing the total number of parcels delivered worldwide to 1.3 billion, including an all-time record of 9 million parcels delivered on Cyber Monday.
The European market is still growing, driven largely by the BtoC segment over the past few years. DPDgroup relies on a hybrid BtoB-BtoC network. In 2018, its BtoB segment still accounted for 59% of DPDgroup business volumes, while DPDgroup’s BtoC volumes segment in Europe showed a 16% increase.
First cross-border road network in Europe with its own operations in 23 countries, DPDgroup reported particularly strong sales growth in Belgium (+23%), Poland (+20%), Ireland (+17%), the Netherlands (+16%), France and the UK (+9%).
DPDgroup growth has been sustained by an ongoing acquisition strategy, with the following achievements in 2018:
-) Acquisition of Groupe ALP Delifresh, Freshlog and 360° Services, by Chronopost France to accelerate the company’s growth in the fresh food and health markets.
-) Minority stake in Ninja Van, a rapidly growing parcel delivery service provider in South-East Asia.
-) Two new franchisees in Spain, strengthening SEUR’s positioning in its historical market, bringing DPDgroup’s stake in SEUR to 94%.
DPDgroup’s growth has been achieved in a highly challenging environment: increasing restrictions on delivery in city centres, global shortage of drivers, and related costs increase, especially in Germany. Of course, these challenges affect all players of the CEP market in almost every European country.
Lastly, DPDgroup is ready for a no deal Brexit scenario, ensuring that service level continues to be as hassle-free and smooth as possible. The group has developed procedures and operational processes to be implemented as of 29 March: customs clearance and linehauls organisation with specific gateways.