Customer experience and sustainability expectations fuelling evolution of direct-to-consumer (DTC) delivery options across Europe

40% say their organisation could easily combine separate orders for delivery at the same time, while 37% split orders to satisfy customer demand from more than one location 

LONDON, UK – 15^th February 2023 – Four in ten (40%) decision-makers across ecommerce, manufacturing, retail, transport and logistics supply chain, and wholesale businesses in Europe said their organisation could easily combine separate orders for delivery at the same time, while 37% say they split orders to satisfy customer demand from more than one location, and 23% referenced specific two-hour time slots.

These findings are presented in “The Rise of Direct-to-Consumer”, research commissioned by Deposco, a leading provider of omnichannel supply chain fulfilment solutions, polling decision-makers working in these sectors across the UK, Benelux and Nordics, which highlights organisations’ growing emphasis on providing DTC delivery options which drive sustainability.

The survey results reflect the emerging focus on sustainability by businesses in these regions, and how closely they are linking it with exemplary customer service. A commitment to reducing environmental footprint is one of the biggest trends seen in shipping and delivery, the research shows that some brands are already offering consolidated deliveries, especially where delivery speed is less of an imperative for the consumer.

Based on insights generated by the research, Deposco expects to see moves towards enhanced collaboration emerging, and that legislation that encourages different retailers to collaborate on delivery runs or infrastructure that disintermediates competitors will emerge. Dynamic buying groups, where individuals get a better price for consolidating deliveries are another future option. The survey highlights that DTC can ensure sustainability and customer service while also driving profitability, with 38% of respondents stating that improved profit margins are among some of the major benefits of DTC.

Deposco’s complimentary report, The Rise of Direct-to-Consumer in Europe: How businesses can break through the barriers and make a success of DTC channels, is now available.