The size and reach of the express industry

 

Since its birth in the 1960s, the express industry has experienced rapid growth both in size and reach. It has stretched its market base across the globe and now boasts large markets not just in North America, but in Europe, the Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

In 2018, an estimated 330,000 employees worked directly for the European express industry. While Germany had the largest share, with 31% of the total, the United Kingdom and France also had significant shares at 18% and 14% respectively.

Estimated direct employment by EU28 country, 2018

 

 

Source: Oxford Economics Report - The Impact of Express Industry on the EU Economy - October 2020

Simultaneously, express industry operations have evolved from dealing solely in document and parcel delivery into the realm of specialist items such as high-tech products, semiconductors, and general airfreight commodities. This has allowed the express industry not only to connect with firms in an increased number of regions, but also with those covering an increasingly diverse number of sectors.

Such success and growth is largely down to the ability of the express industry to provide a level of rapid, guaranteed international delivery service that is simply not achievable for transport operators on their own. This service enables companies in all regions of the world to win business and compete effectively in an increasingly global market.