By James Coleman, Director at Prolog Fulfilment
In today's unstable global marketplace, where tariffs and regulations are shifting on a daily basis, international brands are increasingly exploring new markets for expansion. The UK's e-commerce market is the largest in Europe, with a value of nearly $130 billion (£100 billion) in 2024, and a projected revenue of $285.60 billion by 2025. As the third-largest global e-commerce market, (ranking only behind China and the United States), it certainly seems like a market worth exploring!
Why work with a UK fulfilment company?
The UK has positioned itself as a hub for international business by minimising regulatory hurdles and promoting a transparent and efficient marketplace. Its geographical location in Europe and its global trade partnerships make it an excellent gateway to other international markets. By collaborating with a UK fulfilment expert brands and retailers can benefit from a number of operational and cost efficiencies as part of an exciting expansion strategy.
At Prolog, we help our clients to scale their operations internationally, managing their UK and International Direct to Consumer (DTC) and Business to Business (B2B) delivery requirements. We understand local customer preferences, and offer invaluable expertise in local tax regulations, customs duties, and import/export laws, helping brands to provide their customers with a seamless shopping experience.
Meeting customer expectations
We all know that customer delivery expectations are evolving. Shoppers demand fast, reliable shipping and hassle-free returns as standard. Research suggests that the average consumer now expects delivery within two to three days and that 12% of the population must have next day delivery to make a purchase. Partnering with a UK fulfilment centre allows international brands to offer a range of shipping options, and localised customer service. Handling returns and exchanges quickly enhances customer satisfaction, fostering brand loyalty and repeat business.
We work with a number of international clients managing the distribution of their direct to consumer (DTC) orders, allowing them to provide a range of delivery options, including a next day delivery service, not always possible when sending orders from the US or other global locations. And we look after their B2B requirements, with a pick and pack service that can be tailored for exact customer specifications, ensuring we adhere to stringent retail packaging requirements.
Scalable and flexible solutions
For brands expanding into new markets, scalability is crucial. We provide a scalable and flexible service to accommodate high-demand periods, leveraging adaptable staffing and shipping strategies. Scalable warehouse capacity supports seasonal releases, limited-edition launches, and viral product spikes, allowing brands to capitalise on growth opportunities swiftly. Our integrated warehousing and distribution capabilities streamline our client’s operations, providing real-time visibility of their order status throughout the entire journey, full inventory management and a returns processing solution; as well as add on services such as kitting and bundling.
Saving costs and the environment
Establishing global distribution centres involves significant upfront and ongoing costs. In contrast, partnering with a local fulfilment expert can provide a cost-effective alternative by reducing shipping distances and leveraging economies of scale.
By reducing delivery miles, brands and retailers can also reduce their carbon footprint. As a certified carbon neutral company, we’re committed to reducing environmental impact through key initiatives and innovative technologies. We work in partnership with our clients to support them with their sustainability targets.
Navigating logistics remains one of the key challenges for organisations considering new markets. Collaborating with a UK fulfilment expert seems like a practical and strategic option enabling brands to streamline the process, and deliver a number of operational and cost efficiencies.
Sources:
https://www.charle.co.uk/articles/ecommerce-statistics/#ukstats
