The Group's total package volumes increased by 12 percent compared to the same period last year, meaning a total of 70 million packages were handled during the quarter. This growth was led by the business-to-consumer (B2C) business area, which grew by 14 percent, while volumes within business-to-business (B2B) increased by 7 percent. However, the Group's total net sales amounted to SEK 8,811 million, corresponding to a decrease of 3 percent in fixed currency for comparable units.
"Aim to Win in the Package Market"
CEO and Group Chief Executive Annemarie Gardshol highlights the company's strategic focus on e-commerce and logistics in the report.
At the same time, package volumes continued to increase and grew by 12 percent, notes Gardshol, adding that the volume development for the package business had a positive impact on the company's sales.
To strengthen its position in the market, Postnord has formulated business priorities with the aim of "winning in the package market". Part of this work is the expansion of delivery options aimed at consumers.
We are also continuing to expand our network of parcel boxes in the Nordics. Parcel boxes are an appreciated delivery option and an important part of our ambition to offer consumers greater flexibility, says Annemarie Gardshol.
Volume Growth in All Nordic Countries
The development of e-commerce-related package volumes was upward across the Nordic markets.
- Sweden: Package volumes increased by 11 percent, primarily driven by positive developments in B2C volumes. External sales for the eCommerce & Logistics service group landed at SEK 2,688 million.
- Denmark: The business reported a package volume increase of 9 percent due to increased demand within B2C.
- Norway: In Norway, a volume growth of 25 percent was noted for packages, which the company states is due to growth within business-to-consumer.
- Finland: Package volumes increased by 15 percent, driven by higher volumes within both B2B and B2C.
- International: The Postnord International segment saw a package volume increase of 17 percent, explained by volumes from Asia and Europe.
Increased Sales but Result Pressure within TPL
Within the Postnord TPL business area, which manages the company's third-party logistics, net sales increased by 19 percent to SEK 821 million. The increase is attributed to increased market activity within certain customer segments and successful sales efforts.
However, the segment's operating profit fell to SEK -22 million. Postnord explains the negative result by the fact that the business is currently affected by overcapacity in the market, as well as temporarily increased costs due to production adjustments and started businesses.