CHINA (HONG KONG). Alibaba Group logistics arm Cainiao Network has launched its first Cainiao Post network outside mainland China, in Hong Kong. The new network will include ten Cainiao Post stations and 60 Cainiao-designated collection points to streamline last-mile logistics for consumers in the territory.
Cainiao plans to expand the network on the ground in Hong Kong to cover a combined floorspace of over 4000sq m, supporting approximately 1.8 million Hong Kong consumers.
The logistics provider noted research from GlobalData which forecasts ecommerce sales in Hong Kong to grow +11.1% in 2021, which it said underlines the need to expand its last-mile logistics capabilities and increase delivery efficiency.
Established in China in 2013, Cainiao Post aims to be the logistics platform that integrates resources and alleviates last-mile logistics pain points, including increased complexity and demand on courier services.
Via its partners and courier network, Cainiao Post is able to offer cost and time-efficient delivery options based on real-time data determining the optimum service and route for the particular order.
Cainiao said that post stations situated in, and managed by local communities, will play a fundamental role in providing merchants and consumers with courier service, parcel storage and returns.
Cainiao Network Head of Cainiao Post (Hong Kong) Rex Lin said: “The pandemic has brought to light many vulnerabilities and issues within the logistics value chain. The current extent of digitisation is still in the early stages, with room for further transformation to enhance agility and efficiency.
“With a strong digital foundation, coupled with a robust partner and courier network, Cainiao can help the industry drive greater efficiency and seamless connectivity, alleviating pain points in last-mile delivery.”
He added: “Furthermore, our merchants will be able to benefit from Cainiao’s scale, standardisation, hyper-localised operations and in-depth market knowledge.”
Last June, Cainiao Post announced its expansion plans to add another 30,000 stations in 100 Chinese cities to encourage community job creation.
