ESW and DPD ink strategic link-up for more “frictionless” cross-border e-tail

Global direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce company ESW and UK parcel delivery brand DPD have formed a strategic partnership.

The purpose of the collaboration is to give DPD’s UK retail customers an accelerated DTC expansion to reach global consumers in more than 200 countries.

This alliance gives its customers access ESW’s “one-stop solution providing technology and deep localisation expertise through a capital-light approach”. In other words, it aims to alleviate the friction that often impedes brands and retailers from selling directly to international consumers cross-border.

The partnership also expands ESW’s UK market share and will see it supporting the delivery firm’s network of retail and brand customers.

The collab is underscored by ESW’s own ‘Global Voices’ research of over 16,000 consumers across 16 countries, that reveals “a diverse map of demand for UK products in contrast to ongoing low consumer confidence in the UK”.

While just 7% of UK consumers surveyed say they intend to spend more online in the coming 12 months, the UK was one of the top three most shopped markets for international online purchases across categories, including luxury goods (with 32% of consumers buying from British brands), clothing (29%), footwear (29%) and cosmetics (27%).

Martim Avillez Oliveira, Global Chief Revenue Officer, ESW, said: “Our core mission is to facilitate seamless DTC access to brands seeking to find new ways to grow revenue, optimise inventory and improve margins using a cross-border strategy. We’re delighted to partner with DPD to offer its clients the opportunity to grow beyond British borders and access the significant revenue opportunities available.”